This study shows that a newly developed BChEi could be used in treating cognitive decline in dogs. In dogs with moderate cognitive impairment, treatment was associated with the improved clinical rating of cognitive abilities. Furthermore, an improvement in the performance-based tests of cognitive functioning in dogs was observed.
To evaluate the severity of cognitive impairment and the effect of BChEi treatment on CCD signs, a questionnaire based on the CADES scale and two problem-solving tests were used. Rating scales are essential tools for CCD diagnosis and staging, but also for careful monitoring of the disease symptoms and evaluation of the treatment effects19. To reduce the subjective evaluation of dogs’ cognitive status based on the CADES questionnaire, all dogs included in the study were regularly checked by the participating veterinarian. Moreover, a baseline health check…