Narcolepsy in horses: causes, symptoms and supportive therapy with the EQUUSIR BIOS blanket

Narcolepsy in horses is a rare but serious neurological disorder that often leaves horse owners baffled. This disorder, which presents as a sudden onset of sleep, can lead to dangerous situations, especially if it occurs unexpectedly. In this article, we present a case study of an 18-year-old warmblood gelding who suffered from narcolepsy and severe stress. Find out how the EQUUSIR BIOS blanket was successfully used to support his well-being. 

What is narcolepsy in horses?

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that affects the horse's sleep-wake cycle. Affected animals suddenly fall into a sleep-like state, which is particularly dangerous when the horse is standing or moving. The exact cause of narcolepsy in horses is not fully understood. In addition to stress, which is considered a common trigger, positive excitement, lack of sleep or trauma can also worsen narcolepsy symptoms. 

Signs and Symptoms of Narcolepsy in Horses 

Horses with narcolepsy show a number of symptoms that should be recognized early to initiate treatment: 

• Sudden sleep attacks: Horses can unexpectedly fall into a sleep-like state and thereby lose their balance. 

• Anxiety and nervousness: Affected horses often suffer from stress, which can intensify the seizures. 

• Abnormal sleeping habits: Horses with narcolepsy often sleep standing up or leaning against the wall of their stall, for example. This way they avoid lying down because they are afraid of not being able to get up again. 

Case study: Warmblood gelding with narcolepsy and panic attacks

The animal health practitioner and veterinary assistant Sina-Marie Ahnefeld took over the care of an 18-year-old warmblood gelding who suffered from narcolepsy as well as severe stress and panic attacks. The most important symptoms and clinical pictures in this horse were: 

• Panic attacks and stress: The gelding was shaking on the tie-up, running restlessly around his box and had difficulty being alone. 

• Narcolepsy: The gelding suffered from sudden attacks of sleep in the pasture and in the stable, which led to dangerous situations and injuries to the forelimbs . 

• Trauma to the right temporomandibular joint: An old injury (minor lesion) caused by a fall on the right side of the face , which increased the tension and stress behavior of the gelding. 

Diagnosis: Examination and Causes

In order to clarify the causes of the symptoms , especially the behavioral abnormalities , a comprehensive blood test was carried out. by Sina-Marie Ahnefeld and the Veterinarian in carried out . The results showed chronic inflammation, but no tumor as initially suspected . Palpation of the head also showed an almost completely atrophied masseter muscle on the left side of the face , the teeth on the left side showed strong hooks, so that the suspicion was that the horse was suffering from counterpressure on the contralateral side tries to relieve pain to relieve and thus no longer chew on the left side. Based on these findings and a reconstruction of the fall several years ago on the right side of the face, intensive therapy was started. Old X-ray and scintigraphy images were evaluated and a suspicion of nerve damage to the right side of the face in the area of ​​the jaw joint (trigeminal nerve) and associated headaches was raised. expressed. 

Therapy approach: BIOS horse blanket and supportive measures

The gelding's therapy included several measures, with the EQUUSIR BIOS blanket being a central component. Using the blanket had the advantage of calming the nervous system and stimulating the regeneration process. 

EQUUSIR BIOS blanket: relaxation and support for narcolepsy

• Application: The BIOS blanket was used twice a day in “Calm” mode in the morning and in “Relax” mode in the evening. 

• Effects: The Calm program helped to reduce the gelding's stress and pain and to reduce the associated narcolepsy symptoms. The Relax program supported deep relaxation and contributed to improved sleep quality, which enabled the gelding to rest better. 

Acupuncture and craniosacral therapy

Through acupuncture and craniosacral therapy , muscle tension in the head area could be relieved and inner stress and restlessness could be eliminated. The horse was also specifically treated for nervous headaches. During the treatment, the gelding showed clear signs of approval and visibly relaxed.  

Painkillers, radical scavengers and nutritional supplements  

In addition to the magnetic field therapy, acupuncture and craniosacral therapy, the gelding received painkillers and anti-inflammatories from the vet in the first two weeks of treatment. Immunomodulation and radical scavengers, as well as medicinal mushrooms (e.g. Hericium Reishi ) and vitamin B complex strengthened the immune system and supported nerve function in the further course of therapy. The chronic inflammatory process was contained. The gelding's stomach was also included and treated with beneficial herbs. Warning: This is NOT an instruction/recommendation for self-help. Never use medication or painkillers without a prescription from the vet. 

In order to find the right treatment methods for your horse, it is essential that the diagnosis and therapy are carried out by a veterinarian. In the worst case, you can harm your horse if you “experiment” on your own. 

The role of the EQUUSIR BIOS blanket in narcolepsy

The EQUUSIR BIOS blanket uses a gentle magnetic field technology that stimulates cell activity and contributes to the regeneration of the body. It is particularly valuable for horses with neurological disorders such as narcolepsy because it: 

• ... reduces stress: Horses suffering from narcolepsy are often very sensitive to both positive and negative stress, which can make the attacks worse. The BIOS blanket calms the autonomic nervous system and thus helps to reduce the frequency of sleep attacks. 

• ... the quality of sleep is improved: Thanks to the relaxing effect of the “Relax” program, the gelding in the case study was able to sleep deeply and restfully again. He even lay down again at night. This program helps horses to fall back into REM sleep more easily. The body recovers best in the REM sleep phase. 

• ... supports regenerating effects: The BIOS blanket promotes blood circulation and helps the body to regenerate faster, which is particularly beneficial after stressful or stressful situations. 

Results: Progress through the BIOS horse blanket

After about three weeks of intensive therapy, the gelding showed a significant improvement. The most important successes included: 

• Reduced episodes of narcolepsy: The gelding no longer collapsed suddenly as the seizures became less frequent and less severe. After about six weeks, no seizures occurred at all. 

• Reduced stress: The horse showed less panic and fear, which made his daily life more relaxed and pleasant. Other horses in the stable could now leave the stable without any problems. 

• Improved regeneration and vitality: Thanks to the BIOS blanket, manual therapies and nutritional supplements, the horse recovered significantly faster and appeared healthier and more vital. 

Tips for horse owners: Behavior in narcolepsy

If your horse shows signs of narcolepsy, it is important to respond calmly and sensitively. Make sure the horse has a safe environment in which to relax and avoid stressful situations that could exacerbate the seizures. A comprehensive diagnosis and an individual treatment plan are crucial to your horse's well-being. 

Why the EQUUSIR BIOS blanket is a valuable therapy option

The EQUUSIR BIOS blanket offers gentle and non-invasive support for the well-being and health of horses. It helps to calm the nervous system and promote regeneration, particularly in the case of neurological disorders such as narcolepsy. Because it is easy to use, the blanket is suitable for daily use for both leisure horses and competitive athletes. Horse owners appreciate the positive effect on the health and behavior of their horses. 

Holistic Therapy Approaches for Horses with Narcolepsy

The successful treatment of narcolepsy often requires a holistic approach that integrates various forms of therapy. In the case of the warmblood gelding, the EQUUSIR BIOS blanket proved to be crucial in improving his condition. The combination with complementary therapies and nutritional supplements helped to reduce stress and reduce the seizures. As a horse owner, you should act early at the first signs of narcolepsy and rely on comprehensive treatment to ensure your horse's well-being. 

EQUUSIR BIOS blanket: support for narcolepsy and other challenges

Do you have a horse that suffers from narcolepsy or other health problems? The EQUUSIR BIOS blanket offers a wide range of applications to promote health, reduce stress and support regeneration. Visit our product page or contact us directly for personal advice and find out how the BIOS blanket can positively influence your horse's life.