Cognitive Behavior Problems

Keywords:
Unexplained, behavior, senior, appetite, changes, diet, teeth liver, kidney, osteoarthritis, cognitive, exam, Alzheimer's, tests, medication, aging

Cognitive Changes

Cognitive Behavior Problems

It may seem like it was just yesterday that your pet was a puppy or kitten, chewing up the furniture, learning to walk on a leash and climbing up your leg with those sharp little claws. They grow up too fast, and now you realize, those "highlights" in its fur are actually gray hairs.

One of the most distressing events that parents of senior pets witness is unexplained alterations in the behavior of their furry family members. Your previously well house--trained dog starts to have accidents. Your cat, who used to perch on your computer keyboard every time you sat down to work, now is content to lie in its bed. Is this just old age or could it be something more serious?

An occasional lack of appetite is not unusual, but if it persists for more than a day or two, it could be significant. Causes for a decrease in appetite range from a sudden change of diet, diseased teeth, liver or kidney disorders, or even early signs of cognitive dysfunction, a pet's version of Alzheimer's.

One in five adult dogs suffers from osteoarthritis. Less than half of these pets are treated. Too often pet owners don't realize that difficulty rising, resistance to going on a walk or just being standoffish could be signs of arthritis. Or, they may not be aware that there are medications that are safe and effective, even for long term use, for the control of the discomfort of this progressive disease.

One of the primary reasons why veterinarians recommend that pets have a wellness consultation twice yearly, even when they seem perfectly healthy to you, is to establish baselines for organ function. Ever notice your pet drinking increased amounts of water, urinating more frequently or having difficulties with elimination? These can all be hallmarks of weakening internal organs. Routine blood and urine tests can help to detect these abnormalities. If they are discovered early, treatment is typically more cost effective and usually has a better outcome.

Advances in veterinary medicine are allowing our pets to live longer and healthier lives. With increasing age, also comes the chance that they will experience many of the same geriatric physical and mental changes that we see in our aging human population. Medications are now available to help reverse many of these symptoms.

  Go back

Daily Pet News


Know Your Dog's Patterns
It has long been recognized that there are certain patterns in the causes of death of our dogs. Depending on age, sex, and breed, there are common causes that are understood by veterinarians. For example, infection and congenital diseases are more likely to prove fatal to puppies, while cancer becomes more and more common as dogs age. Doctors can use this information when looking for signs and symptoms in our dogs. Based on tendencies, your veterinarian can recommend the appropriate diet, examination and vaccine schedule, and exercise program.

Horses Gentle Giants
Horses can be fragile beings. Because they are designed to be extremely efficient, one small biomechanical dysfunction can lead to major problems. Pain, of course is not far behind. In order to manage the horse, pain and anti-inflammatory drugs may be needed in conjunction with physical therapy or chiropractic. A veterinarian can devise a treatment plan that will optimally benefit the horse.

That Bites! Horses and Insect Bites
A study suggests that the regular application of a topical ointment may provide some relief to horses suffering from insect bite hypersensitivity, or IBH. IBH is an allergic reaction that many horses have to insect bites. Symptoms include, itchiness, patches of hair loss, and calluses. Horses may scratch or rub itchy areas and causes oozing sores.

Your Dog Likes Me More
An interesting new study reveals that dogs are more likely to approach men than women. Neurotic owners and dogs seem to bond even more, sensing that they need each other. Calm and non-aggressive people also attract dogs much more than loud individuals. While researchers are uncertain why, they guess that it may be related to sex associated roles that have been observed in wolves.

Diabetes in Pets
Diabetes in cats and dogs is becoming more and more common. As obesity rises as does diabetes and heart disease. Offering good nutritious food and keeping treats to a minimum are essential to keeping pets healthy

Dogs and Autisim
Dogs are wonderful in many ways, but can they help families with autistic children? First off, they have a calming effect on both child and parent. They can help in establishing routines and can offer a buffer when dealing with the stresses of daily routines. And the bond between child and dog can help to bring focus to a sometimes chaotic environment.

Training Techniques
Training and interacting with your dog can be challenging without the right technique. That’s why experts have been studying dogs for years. Research has taught us that our canine companions respond much better to positive reinforcement and immediate correction using calm, deliberate movements. We should not dominate and intimidate our pets, but rather coach them towards intended behavior.

West Nile Risks
West Nile Virus, is just one of the many diseases carried by those pesky mosquitoes. So when walking your dog, avoid swamplands or areas with standing water. These are prime locations for the blood suckers. And just in case, be sure that your pet is up to date on its vaccinations. If you suspect your companion is suffering from any infectious disease, immediate medical intervention may safe its life.

Traveling With Your Pet
More than half of pet owners travel with their pets, and it’s important to keep their safety in mind when traveling. A common mistake is that most of us will let our pets roam around the car and some will even hold a pet while driving. This poses a very serious danger to all passengers, human or other. The impact of a 35 mile per hour car accident can be fatal to a non-secured pet; and can also turn it into a dangerous projectile. Crating or other restrictive methods will save lives.

Get With Your Vet
Teaming up with your veterinarian is important for your pet’s healthcare. Because you are around your companion around the clock, information about its eating habits, behavior, sleep patterns, and bathroom frequency need to be communicated to your veterinarian. Then your veterinarian can make informed decisions to benefit your pet.