Exploring the Link Between Epilepsy and Sleep Disturbances in Dogs: What Every Veterinarian Should Know

The relationship between epilepsy and sleep has been widely studied in humans, but what about our canine companions? A groundbreaking study by Alejandra Mondino, Julie Nettifee, and Karen R. Muñana delves into the sleep patterns of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (IE) and compares them to healthy, non-epileptic dogs. Their findings highlight significant sleep disturbances in dogs with epilepsy, underscoring the importance of managing both seizure activity and sleep quality in veterinary care.

The Study: What Did Researchers Discover?

The study involved 64 dogs diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy and 64 age-, breed-, and sex-matched healthy dogs as controls. Dog owners were asked to complete an online survey that included questions about their dog's sleep habits and epilepsy history. To assess sleep quality, the researchers used the Sleep and Nighttime Restlessness Evaluation (SNoRE) questionnaire, which measures "sleep quality" and "sleep interruptions caused by dreaming."

The results were clear: dogs with epilepsy exhibited significantly poorer sleep quality compared to their healthy counterparts. The median sleep score for epileptic dogs was 12, compared to just 8 for the control group, with the most notable difference being in sleep quality. Interestingly, the frequency of seizures, whether they occurred in clusters, and the use of antiseizure medications (ASMs) did not appear to influence sleep scores significantly.

How Epilepsy Affects Sleep in Dogs

One of the most striking findings was that 59% of dog owners reported noticeable changes in their dogs’ sleep patterns following a seizure. The most common change was an increase in sleep duration, suggesting that seizures may cause dogs to feel more fatigued afterward.

While epilepsy-related sleep disturbances are not a new concept, this study provides veterinary professionals with valuable insight into the unseen effects of epilepsy on a dog's overall well-being. For veterinarians managing canine epilepsy, this information is crucial in recognizing the broader implications of seizures beyond just the event itself, which could include long-term sleep disruptions.

Clinical Relevance and Future Directions

This research reinforces the need for veterinarians to monitor not only the seizure activity but also the quality of sleep in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy. Sleep disturbances could have significant impacts on a dog’s quality of life, making it essential to factor in sleep management when devising treatment plans.

The study’s authors call for larger, multicenter studies that better account for confounding factors to further explore the relationship between epilepsy and sleep in dogs. By deepening our understanding of these disturbances, veterinarians will be better equipped to offer comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of a dog’s health, from managing seizures to improving sleep quality.

Read full study here: An Exploratory Study on the Relationship Between Idiopathic Epilepsy and Sleep in Dogs