Ageing or cognitive decline?
Growing older can change an animal’s pace and preferences. Losing familiar abilities or becoming persistently distressed deserves a closer look.
| Changes in pace or preference | Changes to discuss with your veterinarian |
|---|---|
| Taking longer to learn something new. | Losing the ability to manage familiar tasks. |
| Needing more time to adjust to a change. | Repeatedly appearing lost in familiar surroundings. |
| Choosing different activities. | Withdrawing, showing persistent distress or struggling to access previously enjoyed activities. |
These examples help you describe changes. A single sign does not confirm cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), a condition that affects brain function in some older animals.
Age is part of the picture
Reduced activity, increased sleep, reduced jumping, toileting accidents and irritability should not automatically be dismissed as normal ageing. Pain, illness and changes in hearing or vision can contribute.
Compare your animal with their earlier self
Consider when a change began, how often it happens and whether it is progressing. Note what was happening around your animal and whether the change affects comfort or familiar routines.
Several problems may occur together. A veterinary assessment can identify opportunities to improve comfort and daily function, even when more than one condition is involved.