Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition similar to human Alzheimer’s disease. Dogs affected by CCD often experience disorientation, changes in social behavior, sleep disruptions, and house-soiling. While Western medicine typically uses nutritional strategies to manage symptoms, a recent study by Catherine Naime Nokay published in the American Journal of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine explores a more holistic approach.
The study highlights the potential benefits of combining conventional dietary therapy with Traditional Chinese Food Therapy (CFT). CFT uses specific foods based on syndrome differentiation—diagnosing the dog’s energetic pattern, such as deficiencies or excesses in organs like the liver or kidney. In Chinese medicine, cognitive issues are often linked to Kidney Jing deficiency or Spleen Qi vacuity, and nutritional therapy is tailored accordingly to restore systemic balance.
According to Nokay, this integrative approach may not only slow cognitive decline but also improve overall quality of life. She points out that CCD involves chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurological degeneration—factors that can be targeted through both antioxidant-rich Western diets and energetically balanced Chinese food prescriptions.
While further research is needed to validate clinical outcomes, the paper encourages veterinarians to consider combining modern nutritional neuroscience with Eastern pattern-based food selection. For aging dogs, this dual-diet strategy could offer personalized, supportive care that addresses both physical and energetic imbalances.
Source: Catherine Naime Nokay. 2023-02-01. “Integrative Nutritional Therapy in Canine Cognitive Dysfunction.” American Journal of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine.
