Love To The Max

There currently is no medical treatment for the feline disease. Most cat owners have little choice but to end their pet's suffering by euthanization.

But there is hope. Elizabeth learned that the drug selegiline (brand name Anipryl) is FDA-approved to treat cognitive dysfunction in dogs. It has shown incredible results in a certain percentage of canine patients. She agreed to try an experimental treatment of Anipryl on Max. This "off- label" use is legal as long as owners are informed, and Elizabeth was willing to try anything. She knew that Anipryl was Max's last chance.

The cat received ½ tablet every morning. Elizabeth was amazed to notice a change within only a couple of days. "It was pretty dramatic!"

Max seemed to regain his composure overnight. His appetite returned, and he began to beg for food just like old times. "Now he knows where he is, he recognizes me, he knows what's going on," says Elizabeth. She is not only thrilled with Max's response, and relieved that he once again enjoys his life and is a full partner in their family; Elizabeth also cherishes the thought that Max's participation in the study will help other cats. That is, indeed, a fitting legacy to their years together. Thoughts of putting Max to sleep have been put on permanent hold, ever since the glazed look in his golden eyes lifted to reveal what was always there, under the confusion-

Max looking back with love.

Pet Senility Symptoms

In the past, these symptoms would have been brushed off as a normal part of aging, says Susan Little, DVM, a feline specialist in Ottawa, Canada. "It actually should be recognized as a specific health issue of a geriatric cat," says Dr. Little. Affected dogs and cats typically seem to forget how to do normal activities. For example, they are unable to find the litter box or ask for a bathroom break, or they simply sit in the middle of the room and cry. Signs of cognitive dysfunction can be vague and confusing, and mimic other disease conditions. Look for:

• Disorientation: wanders aimlessly, acts lost and confused, may not recognize family members or other familiar people or places, gets "stuck" in corners or lost in the house.
• Interaction changes: no longer greets family members, dislikes or avoids petting, not as interested in getting attention, interaction changes with other pets.
• Sleep changes: is awake and active at night, sleep cycles are disrupted or reversed Housetraining is forgotten.
• Anxiety or compulsive behaviors: tremors, yowling and crying, repetitive pacing, floor or object licking.

Delaying the Inevitable?

The old saying, "use it or lose it!" applies equally to pet brains. Studies of cognitive function in dogs proved that problem-solving activities kept them sharp, connected to the world around them, and even extended their lifespan.

Researchers also agree that mental stimulation drastically improves the cognitive function of aging cats. Keep your cat both physically active, and mentally engaged throughout her life to keep her brain young and potentially prevent or slow the progression of aging changes.

Here are some things you can do to keep your aging cat both physically and mentally fit:

• Offer brain-stimulating viewing entertainment such as bird feeders outside windows.
• Teach your cat to walk on a leash.
• Bribe Garfield-type food motivated cats with tasty treats to learn tricks; for instance, call "Fluffy come!" then turn on the can opener, and when the cat runs to you, reward with a treat.
• Offer puzzle toys that reward the cat's interest by dispensing treats. This can mimic feline hunting behaviors and keep the cat entertained and mentally sharp.

Amy D. Shojai is a nationally known pet care specialist, and author of more than a dozen pet books, including the forthcoming "Complete Care for Your Aging Cat" and "Complete Care for Your Aging Dog." She can be reached through her website www.shojai.com