How Can I Help My Horse With Sleep Deprivation?
Yes, horses can sleep while standing up thanks to their stay apparatus; however, horses do have a baseline requirement of REM sleep just as humans do. Without proper sleep, horses with sleep deprivation may end up collapsing while standing because their stay apparatus cannot function properly.
What Are the Signs of Sleep Deprivation in Horses?
The most common finding in horses with sleep deprivation is the presence of classic wounds on the front of the fetlocks. If you watch a video of a horse collapsing while trying to sleep, the reason becomes clear.
These horses often fall forward onto the fronts of their front limbs and typically catch themselves mid-fall. This repeated motion results in wounds and trauma to the front of the fetlocks and, in more dramatic cases, to the knees (carpal joints).
How Much REM Sleep Does a Horse Need?
Horses require a minimum of 30 minutes per day of REM sleep. This sleep must occur while the horse is in recumbency (lying down). The remainder of their sleep is typically achieved during 5–7 hours of resting while standing.
Why Do Horses Become Sleep Deprived?
We often find that horses with sleep deprivation are unwilling to lie down due to a sense of insecurity. The two most common causes are anxiety related to their environment or underlying joint pain.
Anxiety may stem from a move to a new barn, changes in routine, new neighboring horses or herd mates, or alterations in barn schedules. For horses with orthopedic concerns, a thorough lameness examination can help identify treatments that may encourage them to lie down more comfortably.
In some cases, even a short trial of anti-inflammatories can help clarify the cause. If a horse begins lying down more when given medications such as Bute, Banamine, or Equioxx, further investigation into musculoskeletal discomfort is warranted.
How Do You Treat Sleep Deprivation in Horses?
Identifying the root cause of a horse’s unease can be challenging. We often begin with simple changes, such as offering more or different bedding substrates (shavings, straw, etc.), to see if there is an easy solution.
Beyond bedding, we recommend monitoring your horse with a webcam or trail camera set to record motion-activated clips. This makes it easier to review overnight behavior and identify patterns.
It is important to change only one variable at a time (for example, stall location, neighboring horse, turnout arrangement, or calming supplement) and keep notes on what appears to help most consistently.
Social Factors and Sleep
Interestingly, geldings appear to be more predisposed to sleep deprivation. A surprisingly effective solution for some is placing an alpha mare nearby or turning them out together. This can allow a less dominant horse to rest more comfortably without anxiety.
Addressing sleep deprivation in mares can sometimes be more challenging and may require additional patience and observation.
Supportive Supplements for Sleep Deprivation
Once environmental and physical causes have been addressed, we may support horses with calming supplements. Common options include:
- Magnesium (preferably highly bioavailable forms such as NupaFeed)
- CBD, typically 250–300 mg given in the evening (VetCS Powder)
- Tryptophan or similar calming supplements
Protecting the Fetlocks During Recovery
While working through the investigative process, protecting the fetlocks is important. Upside-down bell boots or specialized protective boots may help prevent further injury. Ultimately, however, identifying and addressing the underlying cause of sleep deprivation is essential for long-term resolution.
