Q. Can dogs have narcolepsy? My young Labradoodle will play really hard and then will fall asleep just sitting there after the play is done.
A. To answer your question, yes, dogs can have narcolepsy. There are certain breed predilection for this neurologic problem.
Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder, which isn’t fatal. It can be genetic in origin and affects young dogs. The most represented breeds are Labradors, Dobermans, and Dachshunds, but any dog can have narcolepsy. The common symptoms are sudden sleep attacks, excessive daytime sleepiness, and another neurological disorder called cataplexy.
Cataplexy is a temporary muscle paralysis and loss of reflexes. With sudden collapse he may fall onto his side or stomach, resembling deep sleep, often with rapid eye movements (REM). These symptoms are triggered by excitement, play, and food.
Narcolepsy is considered a congenital or inherited condition but may also be caused by canine distemper virus or other inflammatory process of the nervous system. Research has found a genetic defect in Dobermans affecting a chemical neurotransmitter, hypocretin. Other breeds found with abnormalities with hypocretin receptors are Labrador retrievers, poodles, and dachshunds. This neurotransmitter regulates normal sleep cycles, so disruption would result in the symptoms we see in narcolepsy.
Triggers for these episodes are frequently a positive, high-energy emotion such as excitement, playing, or eating. Sometimes the excitement of going out to potty can trigger an event. They usually last a few seconds but can go on for several minutes. Recovery is quick. Dogs usually wake up immediately and resume what they were doing. Often stimulating the dog with a noise or touch can bring them out of it.
Diagnosis is from a thorough descriptive history. A video of an episode would be very helpful. If the guardian can identify a specific stimuli, the veterinarian will try to recreate an event. This information may help identify a pattern which can be used to avoid or reduce future episodes.
Narcoleptic symptoms can occur with other medical problems, and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and epilepsy. Your veterinarian will do a thorough physical and neural exam. Laboratory tests such as a complete blood work up and urinalysis will help rule out other underlying diseases.
There is no specific treatment for narcolepsy. Treating underlying disease, learning the triggers, and reducing the frequency and arousal involved with triggers will be helpful. Most dogs with this disorder live a normal life. When quality of life for the dog or the guardian is a concern, anti- anxiety and antidepressants can be prescribed. These drugs don’t cure narcolepsy but may help reduce the frequency of attacks.
Living with a narcoleptic pup is not impossible. First you don’t have to worry about him not breathing or having a cardiac event. By being vigilant for possible hazards, you can reduce the number of events and severity. If he collapses while walking down the street, move him to a safe place to recover. When playing with other dogs, be aware the other dogs will be confused and possibly scared. This may result in your dog being attacked. It is up to you to protect him. Avoid over stimulating environments like dog parks, crowds of people, and dog events. In some cases, dogs with narcolepsy may resolve with age.
You need to remember that this condition is not common. Any very active bouncy pup such as a Labrador can run and play so hard and long that they can’t stand out of exhaustion versus this disease. Many normal young pups suffer from FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out), which keeps him running and playing. It is up to us as their guardians to give them appropriate time outs to relax and rejuvenate.
Judith K. Herman, DVM, CVH
Animal Wellness Center
Augusta, Maine
www.mainehomeopahticvet.com