Extension Spotlight

The warm temperatures of summer are quickly approaching, putting livestock at greater risk for heat stroke and stress. It is not difficult to protect animals from these risks but does involve greater planning for anyone who owns or manages livestock.

Heat stress is when the animal is exposed to high temperatures and cannot cool itself in a timely manner. This results in their body taking on extra heat which creates extra stress for the animal and poses risks to their health. Heat stroke is an extreme condition where the animal’s body temperature has gotten so high that organs and muscles cannot work properly.

The visual differences between heat stress and heat stroke are important. Typically, an animal with heat stress will still stand and will still drink water. The animal will make efforts to cool itself such as finding shade, drinking water and panting. Poultry that are stressed from the heat will open their mouths and hold their wings away from their body. However, with heat stroke, an animal will be too weak to stand and will not drink water. Heat stroke also presents symptoms of loss of appetite and disorientation with livestock.

Typically, temperatures that are above 80 degrees and humidity above 50 percent are the greatest risk to livestock. On days warmer or more humid than that, livestock owners need to take greater care of animals to protect against heat stress or heat stroke. It is smart to offer more water than normal during these days.

An animal will drink 30 percent more water when it is stressed from heat to try and cool itself down. Water should also be placed in the shade so that it can stay cooler and is less likely to evaporate. Livestock owners also should place extra waterers in a pen so that dominant animals do not stop weaker animals from getting a drink.

Providing plenty of shade for animals is also important. Trees work the best for shade because a barn allows less air movement which is also valuable to a hot animal. However, any shade is better than none and simple, three-side structures are beneficial. It is important to consider how much shade your area will need based off how many animals will use it. If a barn or similar building is the only space available, consider using fans to encourage air movement and ensure the building is well ventilated.

Livestock owners should also avoid working animals in the hot temperatures. If animals must be moved or exercised on a day where temperatures are high, the morning should be the only time it is done. Even in the evenings when temperatures are cooler, livestock are still recovering from the stress that comes with being hot and are still actively trying to lower their body temperature. For cattle, it takes six hours or more for them to dissipate heat and recover from the stress.

If an animal shows signs of heat stroke, a veterinarian should always be called. Fast actions must be made to save animals during heat stroke. However, the best thing anyone who owns or cares for livestock can do is prepare. It is a good idea to check weekly forecasts and make plans for days that show a chance of high temperatures and high humidity and to use the above techniques to keep livestock safe from the heat.