Narcolepsy

[Jasper's Mom]

Has anyone ever heard of a beardie or other reptile with narcolepsy? I'm starting to wonder if that might be part of what's going on with Campbell Jane. She will be awake and active, and then literally a split second later, her eyes are closed and she's unresponsive. It seems to happen more often when I'm doing something that stimulates her, such as giving her a bath or feeding her. I saw a show about a dog who had narcoleptic attacks when he was excited, such as during play time or at feeding time. It looked exactly like what happens to Cam.

 

[1DRAGON]

Hello Jasper's Mom. How long have you had your beardie? If you just got it, you may need to let it adapt to the new pad for a while. I didn't handle my Rex for at least a week after I got him. Sounds like your beardie is reacting that way due to too much stress. In the pet store when I handled mine, He sat there on my shirt like a statue, with both eyes closed, afraid to move. Then he pooped. I later learned it was due to the stress. Hope this helps you. Good luck!

 

[Goonie]

Sandi, if you haven't already, you might want to mention this to the vet. That could be quite dangerous for an ill beardie, especially for her digestive system.

Does the narcolepsy last long? If it's only a couple of seconds, maybe it won't be much of concern. Or she may be having issues with properly pumping the blood through her heart during excited situations, thus causing her to be unresponsive.

Boy, she sure knows how to keep you on your toes, huh?

 

[Jasper's Mom]

I did mention it to the vet, and he said that in all the years he's been practicing, he has never seen or even heard of a reptile with narcolepsy. Not to say it couldn't happen, just that it's not at all common. I think it must be due to the stress of the bath and the feedings.

 

[morninggrl]

Bowser does this too...she just closes her eyes and stops responding to things. She'll also do it if you touch her face or head. I just thought it was a personality thing.

 

[amylee159]

Wow! Never heard of a reptile with it, but as you mentioned, I saw videos of a dog who had it. Poor thing. I hope Miss Campbell is ok