Livestock

Livestock Thermal Comfort and Heat Stress

Heat stress in livestock causes significant welfare problems and production losses worldwide.

Key Facts

Heat stress costs US livestock industry over $2 billion annually
Dairy cows suffer most as milk production generates body heat
Broiler chickens are highly susceptible to heat death
Climate change is increasing frequency of dangerous heat events

Welfare Considerations

Heat-stressed animals experience elevated body temperature, reduced feed intake, respiratory distress, and immune suppression. Severe heat stress causes death. Chronic mild heat stress reduces welfare through perpetual discomfort and inability to thermoregulate. Adequate shade, ventilation, and water access are fundamental welfare requirements.

What You Can Do

Support mandatory heat stress prevention standards for farms
Choose producers with documented thermal management protocols
Advocate for climate-adaptive farm building regulations
Donate to research on heat-resilient livestock breeds and management