Cognitive dysfunction syndrome in dogs and cats.

Abstract Some ageing pets developed cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), which is equivalent to dementia or Alzheimer's disease (AD) in people. Both CDS and AD share similar pathological changes including cortical atrophy with irreversible loss of brain cells, cerebral amyloid angiopathy and ventricular enlargement. Clinical signs of CDS include disorientation, social interaction changes, sleep/wake disturbances, house soiling and general activity changes. The risk factors and causes of CDS in dogs and cats have not been fully investigated, but age, gender, oxidative stress and sex hormone deficiency appear to be associated with increased risk of CDS in dogs. Both AD and CDS are incurable diseases currently, therefore greater efforts should be focused on preventing or reducing brain atrophy, and minimizing the risk of AD in people and CDS in pets. A number of nutritional approaches for enhancing cognitive function and promoting healthy brain ageing are briefly discussed.