Fainting goats have a neurological disorder called myotonia congenita, also known as Thomsen’s disease. This condition causes their muscles to lock up and become stiff when startled, sometimes leading them to fall over. While it might look like they are fainting, they are not actually losing consciousness.

Elaboration:

Myotonia Congenita:

This inherited disorder causes a slow relaxation of skeletal muscles after voluntary contraction. When startled, the muscles of fainting goats become stiff and locked, often causing them to collapse.

Not a True Faint:

The term “fainting” is a misnomer because the goats don’t lose consciousness. Their muscles are simply unable to relax, causing them to stiffen and fall.

Genetic Basis:

Myotonia congenita is caused by a mutation in the CLCN1 gene, which codes for a chloride channel in muscle cells. This channel is important for muscle relaxation, and the mutation disrupts its function.

Varied Severity:

The severity of the condition can vary from goat to goat, with some exhibiting stiffening every time they are startled and others less frequently.

Adaptation Over Time:

Younger goats may fall more easily during an episode, but as they mature, they often learn to adapt and avoid falling by simply running away on stiffened legs.