Alzheimer’s / Dementia

[Capt. Crusoe]

My pet rooster "Chief" has been my pet, friend and companion for 11+ years. The last few months, when I enter the barn, he acts as if he does not know me and the feathers on the back of his neck stand on end when I come close to his indoor coop.
(He has a winter and summer coop) His forgetfulness does not happen everyday and not all daylong. There are times he is excited to see me and it shows - many times just wanting to be held or rocked in the rocker while snuggled up on my lap. He loves going for a ride in the truck and knows to sit while the truck is in motion. While riding, his neck is stretched to its limit looking out the window. I believe he thinks we are out cruising looking for chicks. When I am working out in the barnyard he stays within a few feet of me and many times over seems to be studying what I am doing.

This "not knowing me" has me concerned and I am not sure what I can do for the old boy? Has anyone ever heard if Alzheimer’s or dementia affects a bird? I thank all in advance for your reply.

Capt. Crusoe

 

[picklespickles]

oh. your story is very sweet, i love that he rides in the truck with you.

i do wonder if it is effecting him.

good luck. he is lucky to have had such a good life so far.

 

[snugglepup]

Hmm... that is a very good question.

Dogs and cats can suffer from age-related cognitive dysfunction. People too, of course. I would expect not too many roosters make it to 11 or older, so probably not a lot is known about the aging process for them. I think it's definitely possible. As far as treatment? In dogs and cats, we use diet and meds (selegiline) to treat cognitive dysfunction. I have no idea if that medication would be safe for chickens. It's a prescription anyway. You could try supplements, to see if that helps. Omega-3 fatty acids (flaxseed or fish oil), vit B, and vit E are supportive of brain function.

 

[rooster-red]

I'm by no means an expert on the subject, but I think the ravages of aging effect us all, human and animal alike.

Enjoy him while you can.

 

[PurpleChicken]

I don't even want to begin Googling this subject. I'll be up all night.

I'm sorry to hear you're experiencing this. You've obviously given this bird a
wonderful life. How many chickens drive in cars? How many chickens are
social enough to enjoy it?

If the symptoms have been occurring for an extended period of time then I
would think it's age related. Can he be having trouble seeing you?

Does he have access to any hens? Is he capable or interested?

Sounds like a great bird....

 

[bantymum]

Oh I hope he is OK, It has to be age related! perhaps someone else can help you, try dhunicorn, she may know of someone with info realting to this.
Its wonderful to hear about his life with you, you are a wonderful person letting him share so many of your pursuits instead of locking him up.
They are such smart birds and we dont give them enough credit.
Well done and I hope he stays nice and warm this winter.

 

[warren]

I frequently wake up in the morning wondering what day it is. Sometimes it takes 5 minutes to work it out. Sometimes I even get it wrong! Perhaps your rooster does the same. It does not mean that he is unhappy. He won't worry about not being able to remember things like a person would. As long as he is remembering where the food is he will be happy.