What is shivers in horses?

Shivers, also known as Shivering Syndrome or Shivers Disease, is a neuromuscular disorder that affects horses. It is characterized by involuntary, repetitive, and rhythmic muscle contractions primarily in the hind limbs, although it can also affect the front limbs.

Symptoms of shivers in horses include:

1. Tremors: The most obvious sign is the rhythmic shaking or trembling of the horse's hind limbs, often more prominent when standing or during certain activities like picking up the hind legs.

2. Difficulty in backing up: Horses with shivers may show difficulty or hesitation when asked to back up, as the involuntary muscle contractions can interfere with performing this movement smoothly.

3. Leg stiffness: Afflicted horses often show stiffness or stiffness in the hind limbs, with decreased range of motion and resistance in extending the limbs.

4. Muscle spasms: In addition to trembling and stiffness, shivers may cause visible muscle spasms or twitching in the hind limbs.

5. Coordination issues: Some horses with shivers may exhibit unsteady or abnormal gait, with stumbling, dragging of the toes, or difficulty in maintaining balance.

The exact cause of shivers is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to have a neurological and hereditary component. The condition is often seen in draft horse breeds such as Clydesdales, Shires, and Belgian Drafts, but it can also affect other breeds, including Warmbloods and Thoroughbreds.

Shivers is a progressive condition, meaning it tends to worsen over time, although its severity varies among affected horses. While there is no cure for shivers, management options include:

1. Regular exercise: Maintaining the affected horse's fitness and muscle tone is important to minimize symptoms and improve their quality of life.

2. Management of stress and anxiety: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate shivers symptoms, so it is recommended to provide a calm and low-stress environment for affected horses.

3. Dietary adjustments: Some owners have reported improvements in symptoms by modifying the diet, such as reducing high-starch or high-sugar feeds, and incorporating more omega-3 fatty acids.

4. Medications: In certain cases, medications like muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatories may be used to manage symptoms temporarily.

It is important for owners to work closely with a veterinarian to develop an appropriate management plan for horses with shivers, as individual cases can vary significantly. It is also crucial to regularly monitor the horse's condition and adjust the management approach accordingly.