What Is Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?

Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome occurs when age-related changes in the brain interfere with normal mental function. These changes affect memory, learning, awareness, and behaviour.

As the condition progresses, pets may struggle to process familiar environments or routines that once came naturally to them.

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Which Pets Are Affected?

CDS primarily affects senior pets, most commonly:

• Dogs over 8–10 years of age

• Cats over 11–12 years of age

The likelihood increases with age, and many pets may show subtle early signs that can easily be mistaken for “just getting old.”

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Common Signs of Dementia

Signs of CDS often develop gradually and may vary from pet to pet. Common changes include:

• Disorientation or confusion, especially at night

• Getting stuck in corners or behind furniture

• Altered sleep–wake cycles (restless or awake at night)

• House-soiling despite previous training

• Increased vocalisation, particularly at night

• Reduced interaction or altered attachment to family

• Anxiety, pacing, or repetitive behaviours

• Appearing lost in familiar surroundings

Because these signs can overlap with other medical conditions, veterinary assessment is important.

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Diagnosis and Veterinary Support

There is no single test for dementia. Your veterinarian will usually diagnose CDS by:

• Taking a detailed history of behavioural changes

• Performing a physical and neurological examination

• Ruling out other medical causes such as pain, organ disease, vision or hearing loss

Your vet may recommend further tests to ensure other treatable conditions are not contributing to the changes you are seeing.

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Management and Treatment Options

Although CDS cannot be reversed, many pets benefit from supportive management, which may include:

• Medications or supplements to support brain function

• Dietary changes designed for senior cognitive health

• Maintaining consistent routines

• Environmental adjustments to reduce confusion

• Gentle mental stimulation

• Managing anxiety and sleep disturbances

Your veterinarian will help tailor a plan based on your pet’s specific needs and stage of disease.

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Living With a Pet With Dementia

Caring for a pet with dementia can be emotionally challenging. Pets may no longer behave as they once did, and families often feel a sense of loss even while their pet is still present.

Small adjustments — such as night lights, easy access to toileting areas, and calm reassurance — can make daily life more comfortable for both you and your pet.

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Quality of Life Considerations

Many pets with CDS continue to enjoy affection, food, comfort, and family interaction for some time. However, as the disease progresses, some pets may experience:

• Persistent anxiety or distress

• Frequent confusion

• Disrupted sleep affecting both pet and family

• Loss of enjoyment in daily activities

Regular conversations with your veterinarian can help you assess your pet’s quality of life and guide next steps.

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When Comfort Becomes the Priority

In advanced stages of dementia, some pets may reach a point where confusion, anxiety, or distress can no longer be adequately managed, despite best efforts.

Discussing comfort, dignity, and wellbeing with your regular vet can help you determine when end-of-life care — including the option of a peaceful euthanasia at home — may be the kindest choice.

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We’re Here to Support You

If you are reading this while navigating difficult decisions about your pet’s comfort or behaviour, please know you are not alone. We work alongside your regular veterinarian to support pets and families with compassion, respect, and care.

If you would like to talk or ask questions about home euthanasia, we are here to listen and support you.