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It is not unusual for behavioral problems to develop in older pets. For years, these behaviors may have remained at a lower level, becoming more evident as age-related health changes, such as arthritis, develop. Other behavioral concerns may result directly from a physical illness. Just as people experience changes in their cognitive abilities as they age, so do dogs and cats. Some changes associated with aging may seem insignificant, but even a minor change in behavior could indicate an underlying medical condition or a decline in cognitive function. Early diagnosis and treatment can control or slow the progress of many disease conditions. Advise your veterinarian if there are any changes in your pet’s behavior.
Behavior problems in senior pets can be caused by a number of factors:
Changes in routine or home environment: Changes in the environment can trigger behavioral changes in pets of any age. Older pets are accustomed to their routine and may struggle to adapt to less predictable changes. Suddenly losing or gaining a family member, moving to a new home, or even adjusting to a person’s new work schedule can create anxiety or frustration.
Medical illnesses or degenerative disease: Changes in physical function can contribute to behavioral changes. As pets age, they may experience a change in their ability to see or hear. Pets may feel anxious if it becomes difficult for them to notice a person or pet approaching. They may startle more easily, or scan their environment more often. Some illnesses, such as arthritis and neurologic disease, cause pain that can lead to anxiety or frustration when they cannot easily access a favorite resting spot or retreat from a child approaching them. Medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease trigger an increase in thirst, which can contribute to house soiling. Increased water consumption creates a need to urinate more often. Diseases of the endocrine organs, such as the thyroid gland and pituitary gland, can contribute to behavioral changes such as anxiety. See the handout “Diagnosing a Behavior Problem – Is It Medical or Behavioral?” for more information.
Senility or cognitive dysfunction: The brain is susceptible to age-related degenerative processes that can affect behavior, personality, memory, and learning ability. Just as people with Alzheimer’s disease develop amyloid deposits in their brains, so do dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome. Cognitive changes related to brain aging can be seen in cats as well as dogs. See the handout “Senior Pet Cognitive Dysfunction” for more information.
Regardless of their age, pets that exhibit behavioral changes should have a physical examination. Your veterinarian may also suggest laboratory testing to screen for underlying medical conditions. You may be referred to a specialist for advanced tests such as brain imaging. A veterinary behaviorist may be consulted to determine the behavioral diagnosis. It can take a team to perform a full assessment to identify and address the possible underlying medical and behavioral causes for a change in behavior.
Once age-related medical and behavioral illnesses are identified, they can often be successfully treated or controlled. Your veterinary team will share both the diagnosis and the prognosis, enabling you to make informed decisions regarding the treatment steps. The goal is to help your pet be comfortable physically and behaviorally, so they can enjoy an excellent quality of life in their golden years.
As your pet ages, watch for changes in behavior that can reflect an underlying medical condition. A change in behavior can be the first sign of pain, illness or degenerative disease. Discuss the following behaviors with your veterinarian:
Inform your veterinarian if your pet experiences weight loss, weight gain, or changes in skin or haircoat. Check your pet regularly for lumps and bumps. Be aware of unusual odors, particularly around your pet’s mouth, ears, or anal area.
There is a misconception that older pets don’t play or interact with people “because they are old”. It is important to understand the reason for a change in behavior, as there may be a solution. Fear, anxiety, and frustration can occur regardless of age, and can be treated. Older pets can suffer from cognitive changes that cause them to be less interactive. Pets suffering from age-related cognitive syndrome may appear disoriented or even forget some of their training, including housetraining.
Use the provided checklist to determine if your pet has changes you need to discuss with your veterinarian. If any of these signs arise, they could indicate an underlying medical condition or cognitive dysfunction.
Once the underlying cause for a behavioral concern has been accurately identified, treatment options can be determined. Medication, behavior modification, and changes in the environment can all be used to improve behavior in pets of any age. Medical and behavioral conditions need to be managed concurrently. Your veterinarian may refer you to a veterinary behaviorist to help with the assessment and to coordinate the treatment of both medical and behavioral illnesses. Early detection and intervention can control the progress of many disease conditions, improving the quality of life for you and your pet. See the handout, “Senior Pet Cognitive Dysfunction” for further information.
Indicate which of these behaviors your pet exhibits. Also note the approximate date (year) that you first became aware of the behavior and/or how old your pet was at the time of onset.
