Issue link: https://cp.revolio.com/i/307386
Page 32 | Abby's Magazine - www.AbbysHealthAndNutrition.com Signs of dementia in dogs and cats should NOT be considered a "normal" sign of aging! Like in people, there is a strong correlation between poor diet/digestion and the rising incidence of dementia in the pet population. Feline (cats) cognitive dysfunction syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion. There are many conditions older animals acquire that can mimic the symptoms of cognitive decline, so it's important to rule out all non brain-related physical reasons for a change in behavior. The dementia disorder in dogs is called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. It is recognized as a series of geriatric behavioral problems, not explained by other medical conditions. Dementia is caused by beta amyloidal deposits in the brain. These nerve destructive proteins accumulate over time creating a plaque buildup that impedes the brain's transmission of electrical signals. Because the buildup is gradual, early symptoms are generally not recognized. Affected patients have decreased oxygen levels in brain tissue along with changes in various neurotransmitter chemicals, including serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. Symptoms range from: 1. General confusion - your pet doesn't greet or seem to recognize you as before, or your pet gets 'lost' in the yard or house. 2. Inappropriate vocalization - barking (dogs) or excessive meowing (for cats) in the middle of the night, or for no 'good' reason. 3. Getting day and night mixed up. May be more confused or agitated at night. May wander aimlessly. 4. Loss of house training (dogs) or litter box training (cats). 5. Personality changes - i.e. a formerly outgoing pet becoming timid or aggressive. Doesn't greet you like normal. 6. Cats may stop normal grooming behavior. 7. Excessive sleeping. 8. Loss of or decreased appetite. 9. Become grumpy and irritable. 10. Start pacing or being anxious, and wandering aimlessly. 11. Are Less responsive when greeting owner. 12. Gets lost in corners. If a thorough medical workup fails to reveal other medical causes for the behavior changes, then a diagnosis for dementia may be appropriate. The following may slow down or reverse the symptoms of dementia in pets: Please consult a holistic veterinarian for dosages and best product recommendations for your pet. 1. Feed a species appropriate live raw food diet. (See previous articles or visit my blog for details of an appropriate diet). 2. Feed a quality digestive enzyme with each meal. 3. Feed a quality probiotic daily. 4. Increase the levels of antioxidants in the diet (with fish oils, camu camu, flax and hemp). 5. Feed an herbal blend called Restoration B (contact me for details to purchase). 6. Routine chiropractic care and acupuncture. 7. Regular exercise and environmental enrichment. The brain is a muscle too, use it or lose it! Create brain stimulation with new experiences. 8. Consider forms of EMF (electro magnetic field) protection, whether using grounding pads or intrinsic energy. 9. Detox (consult a holistic veterinarian for details). Items may include homeopathic products plus milk thistle or dandelion. 10. SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine). 11. Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) have been shown to be safe for cats and can improve brain energy metabolism and decrease the amyloid protein buildup that results in brain lesions in older pets. Coconut oil is a rich source of MCTs. A starting dose may be 1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of body weight twice daily for basic MCT support, if your cat will voluntarily eat it. 12. Resveratrol (Japanese knotweed), protects against free radical damage and beta-amyloid deposits, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), Bacopa leaf, and Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) vitamins E, C and B complex and ginkgo. Dementia: Where Am I? NOT A Normal Aging Dis-ease By Dr. Marlene Siegel