Ever noticed your dog kicking in their sleep or your cat twitching restlessly at night? If you live with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), you might’ve wondered if your pet is going through something similar. While animals can’t explain their symptoms like we can, some of their behaviours can look oddly familiar. So — can pets actually get RLS? Let’s break it down.
Do Animals Actually Get RLS?
Not quite. Restless Legs Syndrome is a neurological condition seen in humans — it causes an uncomfortable urge to move the legs, especially at night, often linked to dopamine imbalances in the brain. Since animals can’t describe strange sensations like tingling or crawling, there’s no formal diagnosis of RLS in pets.
But that doesn’t mean they don’t show similar behaviours.
RLS-Like Behaviour in Pets
Many pet owners notice movements that seem like RLS, including:
Twitching or kicking during sleep
Sudden jerks or leg stretches when lying down
Pacing or restlessness before settling
Involuntary muscle movements
These behaviours aren’t RLS, but they may signal other underlying issues.
What It Might Actually Be
If your pet seems restless or uncomfortable, especially at night, it could be due to:
Joint pain or arthritis
Skin allergies or flea bites
Anxiety or overstimulation
Nerve pain or injury
Rare sleep disorders like Canine Sleep Movement Disorder
A visit to the vet is always a good idea if symptoms persist or worsen.
Calming Tools for Restless Pets
Whether it’s joint pain or nighttime anxiety, some simple tools can help pets relax:
Petface Soft Cosy Fleece Comforter Paw Prints Blanket for Dogs, 100 x 70 cm
And for the humans in the house — if you’re dealing with your own restless legs, check out our RLS Sleep Journal or download the free RLS-Friendly Tea Guide.
Final Thoughts
Pets may not get RLS in the human sense, but they definitely show signs of restlessness and discomfort — especially at night. If you’ve ever laid awake fidgeting beside a twitchy dog, you’re not alone. Sometimes it’s you, sometimes it’s them.
