Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome: treatment
14-year-old Yorkshire Terrier that gets stuck in corners, does not recognise some family members, wakes and vocalises at night and has started urinating indoors. Blood tests, blood pressure and physical examination show nothing to explain the signs.
What is the most appropriate therapeutic approach?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. Daily diazepam for night-time anxiety
Benzodiazepines can worsen confusion and disorientation in geriatric dogs and do not treat cognitive decline.
B. There is no treatment: it is normal ageing
Cognitive dysfunction syndrome is a neurodegenerative disease, not normal ageing, and treatment can slow its progression and improve quality of life.
C. Selegiline combined with fluoxetine to enhance the effect
Selegiline is an MAO-B inhibitor: combining it with SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, tramadol or amitraz can cause serotonin syndrome.
D. Combined approach: selegiline, a diet enriched with antioxidants and fatty acids, and environmental enrichment
Correct. Selegiline is licensed for canine cognitive dysfunction; response is assessed after several weeks. Diets with antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and medium-chain triglycerides, together with games, walks and stable routines, have an additive effect.
lightbulb Key takeaway
The diagnosis is one of exclusion: first rule out pain, endocrinopathies, hypertension, sensory deficits and intracranial tumours. Use the DISHAA acronym (disorientation, social interaction, sleep-wake, house-soiling, activity, anxiety) to detect it early and monitor response.
Test yourself with 10 random questions
Neurology · 100 questions, a different test every time
Related questions
Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.