Watch For Signs Of Heat Stress In Livestock

BY RHIANNON BRANCH/

FARM WEEK

With plenty of summer left to go, livestock producers are reminded to monitor animals and implement management practices to reduce the risk of heat stress.

“We’ve had a couple spells of some high heat and high humidity, and it doesn’t take very many of those days to cause some stress on the livestock,” Dan Shike, interim head of the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois, told FarmWeek.

Heat stress is more common during periods of high nighttime temperatures.

“When we’re not getting the nighttime cooling, that’s when those animals really start to have some challenges because they’re not able to get rid of that excess heat load and dissipate that heat through the night,” Shike said.

Common signs of heat stress are panting, increased water intake and decreased feed intake. Low milk production in dairy cows could also be a symptom.

Shike said ensuring access to plenty of fresh water is key, for cattle especially.

Providing enough shade for livestock in pastures is also helpful if it does not restrict airflow.

“If there’s not enough space, the animals will crowd, then that’s actually counterproductive because when they’re all right next to each other, they’re not going to be able to dissipate as much heat.”

For livestock housed in buildings, like many swine and dairy farms, Shike said exposure to direct sunlight isn’t a concern, but ventilation is important.

“Air flow ventilation, fans, misters and sprinklers are all tools that are used.”

With county fair and exhibition season in full swing, Shike said there are extra things for showmen to consider.

“Be mindful of when you transport those animals and try to transport them in the early morning or evening hours to avoid the high heat as some of those trailers can get pretty hot.”

He said exhibitors can keep livestock cool at fairs by using fans and misters, offering fresh water and taking frequent trips to the wash rack.