COMMON NEUROLOGIC DISEASES OF OLDER ANIMALS

Of the various neurologic diseases that affect dogs and cats, some are more often encountered in older animals. Physical diagnosis may be ch allenging, as multiple disease processes that may minic neurologic dis ease can be present in the same animal. A diligent, complete neurologi c examination should lend for an accurate neuroanatomical diagnosis. O nce a level of involvement is determined, knowledge of diseases affect ing the particular area of the nervous system will provide for appropr iate diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Although neurologic diseases are still often devastating, successful management of many of these d iseases will afford better quality of life during the geriatric years.