The Welfare of Farm Animals in Hot Climates

Heat stress in farm animals causes chronic suffering and production losses that are increasing with climate change.

Key Facts

Heat stress costs the US livestock industry approximately $2.4 billion annually in production losses
Dairy cows under heat stress reduce milk production by up to 30%
Broiler chickens suffer cardiovascular stress at temperatures above 32 degrees Celsius
Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of heat events affecting livestock

Welfare Considerations

Heat stress is one of the most widespread and increasing welfare problems in animal agriculture. Animals cannot adequately regulate their body temperature in hot conditions, experiencing elevated heart rate, respiratory distress, and behavioral changes as physiological systems are overwhelmed. In severe cases, heat stroke causes death. The suffering involved is real and significant — equivalent to the acute discomfort humans experience in extreme heat, but without the ability to seek shade, drink as needed, or reduce activity by choice. Climate change is making heat stress more frequent and severe, making welfare improvements like shade provision and ventilation increasingly urgent.

What You Can Do

Support welfare standards requiring shade and cooling for all outdoor livestock
Advocate for maximum stocking density reductions to reduce heat stress in intensive systems
Choose animal products from regions and systems with documented heat stress management
Support climate action as a farm animal welfare intervention