If there is a predicable stimulus, your veterinarian may attempt to instigate an episode in the hospital, so they can observe your dog personally.
Identifying a pattern of triggers will help your veterinarian arrive at a diagnosis. Try to remember what the dog was doing just prior to the episode. Narcolepsy is usually identified based on the symptoms alone, so a thorough history of your dog’s behavior and a detailed description of the attacks are critical. Narcolepsy is not painful or life threatening, but diagnosis by a veterinarian is still important. Abnormalities in hypocretin receptors in other dogs such as Labrador Retrievers, Poodles, and Dachshunds have also been identified. Abnormalities in hypocretin receptors interrupt the regulation of normal sleep cycles. Researchers have identified an inherited form of the disease in Doberman Pinschers, caused by a genetic defect involving a chemical neurotransmitter called hypocretin. Narcolepsy is usually a congenital/inherited condition, but it may also be associated with other diseases such as obesity or immune system disorders. Often, the dog will abruptly come out of an episode after auditory or physical stimulation. Like in deep sleep, rapid closed eye movements (REM) may occur and muscles become slack, but the dog may still be aware of his surroundings. In a narcoleptic episode, an animal may abruptly lose consciousness, fall on its side or stomach, and lie perfectly still, as if napping. Neither is a fatal disease, but both merit attention. Episodes last a few seconds or several minutes and often occur when the pet is eating, playing, or excited. Narcolepsy is often linked to another neurologic disorder called cataplexy that results in temporary muscle paralysis and loss of reflexes. The pet literally falls asleep, often while physically active, then wakes up abruptly and proceeds as if nothing happened. A narcoleptic episode involves sudden collapse and loss of movement. Narcolepsy is a disorder of the nervous system, affecting primarily young dogs and cats. Is he tired? Is he having a heart attack? He’s probably having a narcoleptic episode. He suddenly drops to the ground and lies perfectly still. Your dog is darting about the yard playing a rigorous game of fetch.
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