As climate change increases heat stress frequency in UK and European cattle production, adaptation strategies are becoming increasingly important for cattle welfare.
Dairy cows experiencing heat stress show reduced feed intake, reduced milk production, impaired reproduction, and compromised immune function. As UK summers warm, the proportion of days exceeding the heat stress threshold is increasing. Proactive adaptation through housing improvements, access to shade, and water provision protects cattle welfare as climate conditions change. Breed selection for heat tolerance may become increasingly important in coming decades.