There is something about horses that have captured the human imagination for centuries. Even today, they continue to fascinate people all over the world. From their beauty and power to their intelligence and gentle nature, horses have a special place in our hearts. And while we may not all be horse lovers, there’s no denying that they are fascinating creatures.

However, there is more to horses than meets the eye. In fact, there are some fascinating facts about these magnificent animals that you may not know. So, to help brighten up your day,  here are some interesting facts about horses that are sure to astound you.

There Are Over 200 Breeds of Horses in the World

That’s right, there are over 200 different breeds of horses in the world. Each breed has its own unique characteristics, from appearance to personality. For instance,  the Akhal-Teke is known for its beautiful coat and elegant posture, while the Clydesdale is renowned for its strength and size. Some breeds like the Arabian and the Quarter Horse are popular in racing, while others like the Shetland Pony are often used as working animals. They can also be used for a variety of other purposes, such as riding, carriage driving, and even therapy. And while all horses are special in their own way, it’s clear that there is a lot of diversity among these amazing animals.

Horses Are Herbivores

Horses are herbivores, which means that their diet consists mainly of plants. In the wild, horses will eat a variety of grasses, leaves, and fruits. They also consume hay and grain, which is often used to supplement their diet. And to ensure your horse is getting the nutrients they need, it’s important to feed them a balanced diet that includes a variety of different foods as well as supplements like vitamins and minerals. As seen at www.forageplus.co.uk you can even order supplements specifically for horses to add to their diet when needed. It’s also important to note that horses have a very sensitive digestive system, so they need to be careful about what they eat. For instance, they should never eat nightshade plants, as these can be poisonous to them.

Horses Have Excellent Memory

Horses have an excellent memory, which is one of the reasons why they are often used in law enforcement. Horses can remember up to 100 different faces and can even distinguish between human emotions. This means that they are very good at reading people and can be a valuable asset in situations where they need to be calm and level-headed. For instance,  horses have been used by the police in riot control and crowd management. They have also been used by the military in warfare, as they can navigate difficult terrain and carry supplies. And while horses may not have the same memories as humans, they are still remarkable creatures with an impressive ability to remember.

Horses Are Social Animals

Horses are social animals and thrive when they are around other horses. Horses that live in isolation often become depressed and unhealthy. So, if you have a horse, it’s important to make sure they have regular contact with other horses. This can be in the form of pasture mates or even just visiting other horses. And while horses may not be as social as some other animals, like dogs, they still need interaction with others to stay happy and healthy.

Horses Can Sleep Both Standing Up and Laying Down

Horses are one of the few animals that can sleep both standing up and laying down. When sleeping standing up, horses will enter a light sleep state called “ REM atonia.” In this state, their muscles are relaxed and they can even doze off without falling over. However, when horses lay down to sleep, they enter a deeper sleep state called “REM paralysis.” In this state, their muscles are completely relaxed and they are unable to move. So, if you ever see a horse sleeping lying down, don’t worry, they are just in a deep sleep and will be fine.

Horses Have Good Eyesight

Horses have good eyesight and can see in color. They also have a wide field of vision, which is why they are often used in law enforcement. horses can see up to 350 degrees, which means they have a nearly panoramic vision. And while horses may not have the same level of detail vision as humans, their wide field of vision allows them to see things that we would miss. For instance,  horses can see obstacles in their path that we might not notice until it’s too late. This is particularly important in law enforcement, as horses can help officers navigate difficult terrain and avoid danger.

As you can see, horses are amazing creatures with a variety of fascinating abilities. From their excellent memory to their social nature, horses are truly unique animals. So, if you’re ever considering getting a horse, remember all of these wonderful facts about them and learn how to understand and care for your new horse friend.