Mary Allen
Introduction: Senior dogs and sleep issues
As dogs age, they may experience changes in their sleep patterns. It’s normal for senior dogs to sleep more during the day and less at night. However, some senior dogs may have trouble falling or staying asleep at night, which can lead to sleep deprivation. Sleep issues in senior dogs can have various causes, including health problems, medication side effects, behavioral issues, pain and discomfort, changes in routine and environment, cognitive dysfunction syndrome, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome.
Health problems that can cause sleep disturbances
Senior dogs may develop health problems that can disrupt their sleep, such as arthritis, kidney disease, diabetes, or thyroid problems. These conditions can cause pain, discomfort, or increased urination, which can keep dogs awake at night. In addition, senior dogs may be more prone to developing conditions such as dementia, hearing loss, or vision impairment, which can cause confusion, anxiety, or disorientation that affect their sleep.
Medications that may affect sleep patterns
Some medications commonly prescribed to senior dogs can affect their sleep patterns. For example, steroids, diuretics, or painkillers may cause increased thirst or urination, which can interrupt sleep. Other medications used to treat anxiety, depression, or seizures may cause drowsiness during the day and restlessness at night. If your senior dog is taking medication and has trouble sleeping, talk to your veterinarian about adjusting the dosage or switching to a different drug.