As pets age, subtle changes in behavior are often dismissed as “just slowing down.” But sometimes, these changes signal something deeper—Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), a progressive neurological condition that can significantly affect your pet’s comfort, awareness, and daily routines.

At Mobile Cat & Dog Vet, we provide in-home hospice and palliative care for pets in their final life stages. For families navigating cognitive decline in senior pets, we offer gentle, personalized support focused on comfort, dignity, and quality of life.

Schedule a consultation to learn how we can help your pet age peacefully at home.

What Is Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome?

CDS is a degenerative brain condition—similar to dementia in humans—that affects older dogs and cats. It’s caused by age-related changes in the brain, such as plaque accumulation, oxidative damage, and neuron loss. These changes may interfere with your pet’s ability to recognize people, navigate their surroundings, or engage in once-loved routines.

Early recognition and supportive care can make a meaningful difference in your pet’s comfort and emotional well-being.

Learn more about neurological changes in aging pets

Signs Your Senior Pet May Be Experiencing Cognitive Decline

Not every change is due to CDS—but noticing patterns can help guide care decisions. Common signs include:

  • Disorientation – Getting stuck in corners, staring at walls, or seeming “lost” in familiar places
  • Disrupted sleep – Pacing at night, reversed sleep-wake cycles, or nighttime vocalization
  • House soiling – Forgetting previously learned habits or missing the litter box
  • Withdrawal or clinginess – Loss of interest in affection, or increased anxiety when alone
  • Behavioral changes – Pacing, barking or meowing more often, or uncharacteristic fearfulness

More signs of CDS from Cornell

Dogs and Cats Experience CDS Differently

In Senior Dogs

Older dogs may become confused on walks, forget training, or fail to recognize family members. CDS affects around 28% of dogs aged 11–12 and nearly 70% of dogs over 15.

Spot the signs in senior dogs – CSU

In Senior Cats

CDS in cats may show up as excessive vocalization, nighttime wandering, or forgetting where the litter box is. Indoor cats—who rely on routine—may be more visibly impacted by disorientation.

Behavioral changes in aging cats – ASPCA

When to Reach Out for Support

Sudden or worsening behavior changes should always be discussed with a veterinarian. Some symptoms that resemble CDS may also be caused by:

  • Arthritis or chronic pain
  • Vision or hearing loss
  • Brain tumors
  • Kidney disease or metabolic imbalances

Our in-home assessments are designed to evaluate these possibilities gently and thoroughly—without the stress of a clinic visit.

Understanding brain tumors in pets – NCSU

Managing CDS Through Palliative and Supportive Care

A brown dog with white fur around its muzzle lies on a patterned carpet, resting its head on the floor and looking off to the side with a calm expression.

While there is no cure for CDS, comfort-focused strategies can reduce stress and confusion, allowing pets to age more peacefully.

Nutritional Support

Special diets and supplements can support brain health. These may include:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids (like DHA)
  • Antioxidants to reduce cellular damage
  • Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) to improve brain energy metabolism
  • B vitamins to support nerve function

Top supplements for senior pets – Purina

Environmental Adaptations

Small changes can help your pet feel more secure:

  • Keep daily routines predictable
  • Use nightlights to reduce nighttime anxiety
  • Place rugs or runners to prevent slips
  • Block off confusing or unsafe areas in the home
  • Offer familiar, comforting scents and objects

Enrichment ideas for aging pets

Gentle Medical Therapies

We may recommend:

  • Selegiline (Anipryl) – FDA-approved to support cognition in dogs
  • Melatonin or anti-anxiety medications for sleep and pacing
  • Alternative therapies – Cold laser, acupuncture, or massage for physical relaxation

AAHA care guidelines for senior pets

Hospice Support for Advanced Cognitive Decline

When CDS progresses to the point of affecting your pet’s safety, hygiene, or happiness, it may be time to shift from management to comfort-focused hospice care. Our role is to help families:

  • Recognize signs of distress or declining quality of life
  • Maintain a peaceful and familiar environment
  • Support decision-making around comfort care and euthanasia
  • Ensure that pets are never alone in their confusion or discomfort

We walk alongside you during these moments, providing not only veterinary care—but compassion and clarity when it’s needed most.

You Are Not Alone

Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome is one of the most emotionally complex diagnoses for pet families. But with the right support, your pet can continue to feel loved, safe, and comforted in their own home.

At Mobile Cat & Dog Vet, we bring palliative and end-of-life expertise directly to you—helping you make the most of your time together.

Schedule a home visit today to discuss how we can support your pet with dignity, comfort, and care.