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Changes in behaviour in elderly cats and dogs, part 1: causes and diagnosis
Abstract
Changes in behaviour in elderly cats and dogs can occur as a result of a number of different medical conditions as well as age-related cognitive dysfunction. They may include problem behaviours such as aggression, house soiling, increasing fearfulness and waking owners at night. Early recognition of behaviour changes in elderly animals can lead to faster diagnosis and treatment of the underlying medical and/or behavioural conditions. However, owners of elderly pets do not always mention changes in their pets' behaviour during veterinary visits so veterinary nurses need to routinely ask owners of elderly pets about their pets' behaviour and to be aware of the significance of any changes reported. Targeted questionnaires or screening tests can make it easier to identify behaviour changes suggestive of cognitive dysfunction.
Thanks in part to advances in the ability to prevent and treat medical problems, cats and dogs are tending to live longer and consequently more animals are showing age-related changes in their behaviour, including behaviours that owners may regard as problematic (Gunn-Moore, 2011; Landsberg et al, 2012). This is a concern because behaviours that have a negative impact on owners can be a significant risk factor for abandonment, rehoming or, in elderly animals in particular, euthanasia. In addition, subtle changes in behaviour are often the earliest indicators that an animal is developing a medical problem. Early recognition of behaviour changes and their significance in elderly animals, both by pet owners and practice staff, should enable earlier identification and treatment of medical conditions, which will significantly improve both the treatment prognosis and the animal's welfare. Increasing awareness amongst veterinary nurses of the significance of behaviour changes in elderly animals should improve the welfare of elderly animals under their care.
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