Narcolepsy and Cataplexy in Cats Attacks of Sleep and Weakness
in Cats Narcolepsy and cataplexy, disorders that affect the way
an animal is able to physically operate, are rare but well
studied disorders of the nervous system. Narcolepsy is
symptomized by excessive daytime sleepiness, lack of energy, and
brief losses of consciousness. The episodes are typically brief
and go away by themselves. Cataplexy is characterized by sudden
muscle weakness and paralysis without loss of consciousness. A
cat that is affected by cataplexy will remain alert and capable
of following movement with its eyes throughout the episode.
Cataplexy is similar to narcolepsy in that the episodes are
spontaneous, brief, and reversible. Individuals may be affected
with one, or both of these disorders. Symptoms and Types A cat
that has either of these conditions will not always have any
secondary or underlying conditions related to it. A physical
exam will usually show normal physical and neurologic responses
with no obvious abnormalities.