SUPPORTING COGNITIVE HEALTH IN AGEING PETS

Supporting Cognitive Health in Ageing Pets

As our beloved pets enter their senior years, the signs of ageing often appear not only in their joints or energy levels, but also in their minds.

Cognitive decline in dogs and cats, sometimes referred to as Canine or Feline Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD/FCD) can mirror age related changes seen in humans, including confusion, anxiety, disrupted sleep, and altered social behaviours.

With early recognition and a proactive holistic approach, we can help keep those senior minds active and engaged for longer.

Cognitive decline in pets is linked to oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and decreased cerebral blood flow.

Over time, these processes can impair neurotransmitter signaling and memory. The good news? Many of these changes can be slowed or supported through diet, herbal medicine, environmental enrichment, and natural supplementation.

Holistic veterinary care offers a range of gentle yet powerful tools to nourish the ageing brain.

You may want to include one or a combination of the following...

Ginkgo biloba, a well-known cognitive herb enhances cerebral circulation, oxygenation, and nutrient delivery to brain tissue. It may help maintain alertness and slow memory decline.

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) traditionally used to support nerve regeneration and mental clarity, also acts as an adaptogen, helping senior pets better cope with stress.

Omega 3 fatty acids, especially DHA, essential for neuronal membrane health, reducing neuroinflammation, and supporting synaptic plasticity.

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, protecting neural tissue from oxidative damage.

Lions Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) has the potential to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) and support cognitive function.

Combining these herbs with Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a natural endocannabinoid like compound may further reduce neuroinflammation and support neuronal balance in senior animals.

Just as important as internal support is keeping the mind stimulated. Owners are encouraged to maintain daily routines, introduce gentle puzzles, scent-based games, short training sessions, and safe exploration.

For cats, vertical spaces, food dispensing toys, and interactive play can help preserve curiosity and confidence.

A comprehensive approach for senior pets may include, a whole food, antioxidant rich diet, and/or targeted herbs and nutraceuticals for neural support. Gentle exercise and mental stimulation, and regular vet checkups to monitor cognitive and sensory changes.

Ageing is inevitable, but cognitive decline doesn't have to be. With herbal allies, nutritional support and thoughtful lifestyle enrichment, we can help senior pets stay engaged, responsive, and emotionally connected well into their later years.

Supporting their minds it is vital as caring for their bodies, because a bright, curious spirit deserves to shine at every age.