REM is short for rapid eye movement and is the stage of sleep when the brain is the most awake but the body is paralyzed. [4] X Research source
In the wild, horses will find sleep in groups to protect themselves and will lie down in open pastures.
Notice if your horse is misbehaving more than usual or acting out. This could be because they’re not getting enough sleep. Check the area they sleep in. Are there any alarming or odd noises, smells, or lights that could be stressing them out? If so, remove them and see if your horse wakes happier in the morning.
Sleep deprivation occurs when a horse doesn’t get enough sleep. The horse may appear sluggish, stressed, or even collapse. This disorder can be caused from an unstable or unsafe environment or lingering injury. Hypersomnia is when a horse is extra drowsy. A horse may have a regular sleep schedule, but can’t naturally fall into REM sleep. This causes a decrease in performance, and can stem from neurological diseases. Narcolepsy happens when a horse sleeps too much. The horse may start to sleep during the day suddenly and randomly, unable to control their sleep cycle. This disorder can cause cataplexy (a loss of muscle), hallucinations, and sleep paralysis.
