What Are Myotonic Goats?
Myotonia is the condition that causes Fainting goats to stiffen and/or fall over when startled or excited. This condition is caused by a combination of recessive genes. Fainting goats can show varying degrees of myotonia. The condition lasts for 10 to 15 seconds. A short time after an episode, the stiffness will disappear and they will walk and act like any other goat until it happens again. This condition only affects their external muscles, so while in a myotonic state the animal is fully conscious and aware of its surroundings. This condition does not affect their life span, typically 12 to 15 years, as they will live just as long as any other breed of goat given the proper care. Fainting goats were believed to be used as "sacrificial lambs" alongside more valuable livestock so that they would fall prey to predators rather than the livestock. This use for these unique fainting creatures led to their near extinction in 1988 when they were declared endangered and placed on the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy watch list. They are currently listed as "recovering".
The origin of the Myotonic Goat breed traces back to the early 1800's when a farmer named John Tinsley appeared in Marshall County, Tennessee. He brought with him a sacred cow, three does and a buck that fainted. It was thought by his dress that he might have come from Nova Scotia. He eventually parted from Marshall County, due to a failed relationship, taking only the sacred cow with him. The goats were sold to Dr. H. H. Mayberry. Although, Dr. Mayberry tried to research the history, he could find no evidence of such a breed in the world. He was convinced that they were a breed because their unique traits are obviously hereditary.
Fainting goats generally have large prominent eyes, sometimes referred to as bug-eyed or pop-eyed. Due to the myotonia, they tend to be a very meaty and muscular breed of goat. The original fainters were said to be black & white in color, but now most any coat color can be found. They are generally very laid back, with gentle temperments and are quite intelligent making them wonderful pets. The does kid easily and are naturally excellent mothers. Fainting goats are easily contained as they do not climb as do other breeds of goat. They have become very popular as pets due to the fact they are easy to keep, and have wonderful personalities, not to mention their ability to "faint" making them quite comical.