Sleep in horses: The underestimated need for rest

Sleep is an indispensable part of horses ' health and performance. In contrast to humans or other mammals such as dogs or cats, the sleeping behavior of horses has some peculiarities that are closely related to their development as flight animals. This article will highlight the different aspects of sleep in horses, emphasize the importance of sleep for their well-being and clarify common misconceptions.

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The evolution of sleep behavior in horses

‍Horsesare prey animals, which has had a decisive influence on their sleeping behavior. In the wild, they had to remain alert at all times to protect themselves from predators. This is why they developed the ability to sleep standing up. This ability is made possible by a special anatomy that allows them to lock their joints in a kind of "resting position" so that they do not fall over while sleeping standing up. This gives them the ability to flee quickly in case of danger.

Another aspect of their evolution is the ability to divide their sleep into short phases. While humans have longer sleep cycles, horses divide their sleep into several short intervals of around two to five minutes. These short sleep phases add up to around three to four hours over the course of a day.

Types of sleep in horses

‍Horses, like humans, have different sleep phases. Sleep can basically be divided into three categories:

• Dozing sleep (light sleep): During this phase, horses doze either standing or lying down and are in a state of relaxation, but they can react to external stimuli at any time. They spend the majority of their "sleep" in this phase.
• Deep sleep (non-REM sleep): Deep sleep is also a phase in which the horse either lies or stands, but sleeps more deeply. The body relaxes even more, but the horse remains alert enough to react quickly in the event of a threat.
• REM sleep (paradoxical sleep): This phase is the most important for the horse's recovery and brain. REM sleep only occurs when the horse is lying down, as the muscles of the body relax completely during this phase. A horse needs at least 30 minutes of REM sleep per day to stay healthy. During this phase, the horse may process experiences and impressions.

The importance of lying down

‍Although horses can sleep standing up, it is essential for them to lie down regularly in order to fall into REM sleep. If a horse does not have the opportunity to lie down, this can lead to health problems. A horse that does not get enough REM sleep can develop symptoms similar to sleep deprivation in humans after a few days. These include irritability, difficulty concentrating and even physical exhaustion.

It is therefore important to ensure that horses have access to a calm and safe environment where they can lie down. Factors that could prevent horses from lying down include unfavorable stable conditions, stress, hierarchy in the herd or health problems.

Sleeping habits in the wild vs. domesticated horses

‍In the wild, horses have a very flexible sleep rhythm that is highly dependent on external circumstances. Wild horses often sleep in groups, with some animals always staying awake to protect the herd while others sleep. This rotation system provides security and ensures that each horse has sufficient rest periods.

Domesticated horses, on the other hand, have a more fixed rhythm that adapts to human daily routines. As they are usually exposed to fewer threats, they can lie down more often and take longer rest breaks. However, domestication does not automatically mean that horses get enough sleep. Especially in restless or cramped stables, sleeping problems can occur if the horse does not have enough space or rest.

Factors that influence horses' sleep

• Environmental factors: Horses need a quiet, safe environment to fall into REM sleep. Constant noise or agitation in the environment can prevent the horse from relaxing and getting enough sleep.
• Health problems: Diseases such as osteoarthritis or other joint problems can make it difficult for horses to lie down or get up again. Horses with health problems tend to sleep less as the pain makes it difficult to lie down or get up.
• Ranking and social factors: In a herd, social relationships play a major role in sleeping behavior. Lower-ranking animals often find it difficult to get enough sleep as they have to be constantly vigilant towards more dominant horses.
• Feeding times and training routines: An irregular daily routine can disrupt a horse's sleep pattern. Horses are creatures of habit and need fixed routines to stay healthy and balanced. Regular feeding and resting times help to ensure that they get enough sleep.

Sleep disorders in horses

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Sleep disorders in horses are difficult to recognize, as horses often "appear" tosleep, but in reality do not get a restful sleep. Sleep disorders can have various causes, including physical complaints, stress or incorrect housing conditions.

A sign of sleep disorders is when a horse yawns an unusual amount during the day, is irritable or falls unusually often, especially when getting up. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a vet to rule out health problems or to take specific measures to improve sleeping conditions.

Tips for improving sleep in horses

• Optimize the stable environment: The stable should be quiet and safe so that the horse feels comfortable and can sleep in a relaxed manner. A sufficiently large lying area is essential so that the horse can lie down without feeling cramped.
• Check health regularly: Regular veterinary checks can ensure that the horse has no physical ailments that prevent it from sleeping. Older horses or those with joint problems in particular often need special attention.
• Observe the social structure: The hierarchy in a herd can influence a horse's sleeping behavior. Lower-ranking animals should have sufficient opportunities to retreat so that they can lie down undisturbed.
• Reduce stress: Horses are very sensitive animals that often react to stress with sleep problems. A calm environment and a regular daily structure can help to reduce stress levels.

Sleep in horses: Summarized

Sleep is just as important for horses as it is for humans. A balanced sleep pattern contributes significantly to the physical and mental health of the animals. Horses that get enough sleep are more balanced, more productive and generally healthier. As a horse owner

Sleep in horses: The most important questions and answers

How do horses sleep - standing up or lying down?

‍Horsescan sleep both standing up and lying down. They can experience light resting phases and non-REM sleep when standing up, as their joints assume a "resting position". For the important REM sleep, however, horses must lie down, as their muscles relax completely.

What is narcolepsy and pseudo-narcolepsy in horses?

Narcolepsy is a rare neurological disorder in which horses suddenly fall asleep. Pseudo-narcolepsy, on the other hand, is often triggered by a lack of sleep. In this case, horses show similar symptoms to those of true narcolepsy, although there is no neurological disorder. Pseudo-narcolepsy often occurs when horses do not get enough REM sleep and therefore suddenly "drift off" during the day due to exhaustion.

What can I do if I have pseudo-narcolepsy or REM sleep deprivation?

‍Forhorses with pseudo-narcolepsy or REM sleep deprivation, it is important to identify the causes of sleep deprivation. Check the housing conditions, stable rest, social structures in the herd and possible health problems. A vet can also help to rule out other causes and recommend measures to improve sleeping conditions.

Why does my horse no longer lie down?

‍Ifa horse no longer lies down, this could be due to unfavorable stable conditions, pain (e.g. due to joint problems) or stress and uncertainty in the herd. Make sure that there is a sufficiently large and safe lying area and that the horse can relax. A veterinary examination can help to rule out health-related causes.

How long can a horse go without REM sleep?

‍Horsesneed at least 30 minutes of REM sleep every day. A lack of REM sleep over several days can lead to symptoms similar to sleep deprivation, including irritability, concentration problems and even physical exhaustion.

How much sleep does a horse need per day?

‍Intotal, horses need about three to four hours of sleep in the form of short intervals spread throughout the day and night.