When Fiffi couldn’t find her way while walking

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There is no statistical research on this. Studies show that at least two-thirds of all dogs over the age of 15 and half of all cats suffer from dementia. According to Gabrielle Brunner (49), a veterinarian from Basel who specializes in veterinary palliative care, many owners are unaware of the disease. Therefore, it is underdiagnosed. “Dementia is much more common than you might think, especially in young animals.” Brunner advocates an annual checkup appointment. Owners usually only go to the vet when the situation is almost unbearable for them. “It’s important to recognize dementia before the animal is completely depressed.”

If the dog no longer knows the way out for a walk, can no longer find his way around the house, or is suddenly no longer doing his “work” outside in the meadow but in the apartment, these are classic signs of dementia. brunner Other symptoms: a disturbed sleep-wake cycle and a change in the way you deal with people and other animals. “Dogs with dementia become withdrawn and no longer make close contact with their environment,” says Brunner. Dementia is similar in cats. They can no longer rely on their sense of smell. “They meow at night and then scream because they’re looking for their owners in the dark apartment.”

Brunner says it’s just a matter of time before dementia in animals starts at a certain age. It usually begins at the age of eight in dogs and at the age of ten in cats. It is important to activate the animals and stimulate their brains so that the disease does not occur earlier. Brunner says search games are ideal. “Cats and dogs need all their senses.” It is important not to crush animals. “It needs stimuli, but it also needs relaxation.” Regular weight checks and a balanced, easily digestible diet are other ways to delay dementia and other signs of aging.

“For example, you can let the cat sleep in your bedroom with the door closed,” Brunner says. “The animal is no longer lost in the dark house at night.” If dogs with dementia have reduced hearing, you need to switch from calls to hand signals. “You have to start early because the dog’s ability to learn decreases with increasing dementia,” says Brunner. Direct eye contact with the animal is also very important. And if all your senses are impaired, there’s only one thing left: “Make sure to keep your dog on a leash when you go for a walk to prevent accidents.” Patience is the most important thing, says Brunner. Losing them makes the situation worse. “When a dog starts peeing in the house because of dementia and is punished for it, he understands even less.”

Source : Blick