What is fainting goats?

Fainting goats, also known as Myotonic goats or Tennessee Fainting goats, are a domestic goat breed known for a unique hereditary condition called myotonia congenita. When these goats are startled or excited, their muscles temporarily stiffen, causing them to fall over or "faint," though they remain fully conscious. This stiffening is due to a delay in the relaxation of their muscles after contraction.

Myotonic goats are medium-sized and typically have a broad range of coat colors and patterns. They are often raised for meat production, though they can also be kept as pets or for land management purposes such as brush clearing. They are generally hardy, easy to care for, and have a good temperament, making them popular among goat enthusiasts.

The condition doesn't harm the goats and is not painful, and most goats learn to adapt. The fainting response usually lasts only a few seconds, after which the goat gets up and resumes normal activity. Despite their name, these goats do not actually lose consciousness during an episode. The fainting mechanism has been an evolutionary curiosity, and while it may seem disadvantageous, it hasn't prevented these goats from thriving in domesticated environments.