Sleep in horses is a physiological process that involves periods of rest and recuperation, characterized by distinct behavioral and neurological patterns. Horses experience both slow-wave sleep (SWS) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, although they spend less time in REM sleep compared to many other mammals. The equine sleep cycle is influenced by various factors, including age, environment, and health status. Sleep deprivation in horses can lead to decreased performance and increased risk of injury. This page compiles peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore the patterns, functions, and implications of sleep in equine well-being.
Exner G, Engelmann A, Lange K, Wenck B.A total of 67 patients, both paraplegic and quadriplegic, had participated in a hippotherapy programme over a study period of almost 18 months, with positive effects found relative to spasticity, certain pain syndromes, as well as contraction syndromes associated with impaired joint mobility. Frequently the only effective measure at all, and moreover of astonishingly lasting effect, the spasticity-reducing treatment turned out especially beneficial. Along with these statistically supported findings, a number of associated effects were noted in the physiotherapy and, especially, the nursing sec...
