Introduction
Cats are famous for their long, and frequent, napping habits. While these long and deep naps are normal for our pets, some cat owners wonder if perhaps their extremely restful pet might perhaps have narcolepsy. However narcolepsy is a condition which has very distinct symptoms that includes more than frequent and long bouts of napping.
Symptoms of Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a genetic condition has been reported in cats, but it is very rare. The main symptom of narcolepsy is suddenly falling into a deep sleep during regular times of activity. For example a cat playing with a ball suddenly falls to the ground in a deep sleep. Narcolepsy in cats is also characterized by a condition called cataplexy. This is a condition in which muscular weakness suddenly develops. The cat may develop weakness in the legs, the facial muscles may go slack and droop, or the neck muscles will shake and the head falls down. After a period of time the pet seems to spontaneously recover.
How often the symptoms of narcolepsy occur depends on the severity of the condition. Some cats experience a few narcoleptic bouts a week, and others may experience dozens of narcoleptic bouts a day. Symptoms of narcolepsy are also similar to symptoms of other serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or epilepsy. If you notice any of these symptoms occurring in your cat, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Narcolepsy can sometimes be treated, and there are measures that a pet owner can take to keep their narcoleptic friend safe.