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Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome in Pets

Diagnosing Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome in Pets

The following was originally published on the Petfinder Blog.

By Jane Harrell, Petfinder.com associate producer

Diagnosing cognitive dysfunction syndrome can be tricky. "There is no specific test for CDS," says Karen Johnson, DVM, of Banfield Pet Hospital in Portland, OR. "The diagnosis is made based on age, symptoms and ruling out medical issues that can cause cognitive changes."

Since CDS is a "diagnosis of exclusion," your vet will test for a variety of other conditions to see if they can be ruled out. According to Dr. Johnson, tests would typically include basic blood work, a thyroid test, urinalysis, a neurologic exam and possibly x-rays or ultrasound.

"Some types of liver disease can cause changes that could mimic CDS, as could other types of brain disease, including cancer," Dr. Johnson says. "Any illness has the potential to cause changes in mental status when normal physiologic parameters -- blood pressure, electrolytes, etc. -- are affected."

The tests can be expensive, but they're worth it -- they may identify a treatable condition. "The earlier a correct diagnosis is made and treated appropriately, the better the chance of being able to manage it," says Dr. Johnson. "Also, it's usually less expensive for the client and traumatic for everyone if a correct diagnosis can be made early."

If your vet ultimately diagnoses your pet with CDS, don't despair: "The pet owner should understand that while treatment -- medical and environmental -- doesn't change the progression of disease, it can make a difference in quality of life for both the pet and family," Dr. Johnson says.

Questions to Ask Your Vet if Your Pet Is Diagnosed with CDS

Should I change my pet's diet or give her any supplements?
What medication might help, and what are its risks and benefits?
What dose of the medication should I give my pet, and how often?
How much does the medication cost?
Do you recommend any games or exercise to increase my pet's mental stimulation?
How else should I adjust my lifestyle or routine to make things easier for my pet?

Next Section: How environmental enrichment can prevent CDS and delay its progression.

Next in Pet Health: Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome in Pets:
Using Thinking Games to Treat Pets with Dementia