Heat Stress
Jul 13, 2019
Despite the last few weeks of rain, summer is here and we’re constantly hopeful that a heatwave is right around the corner. But remember, with the good weather comes the increased risk of heat stress.
The upper critical temperature for cattle is 25°C and for shorn sheep 29°C Grazing animals with no access to shade or shelter are at higher risk High humidity and temperatures combined with poor air flow increase the risk of heat stress in housed animals Animals become lethargic, pant, stand with their heads bowed, and cows often move closer together and stand in tightly packed groups The consequences of heat stress include reductions in feed intake, dropped milk yield, poor fertility and increased risk of other diseases such as mastitis Combat heat stress by providing areas of shade, ensuring sheds are adequately ventilated and allowing constant access to plenty of fresh water.
