Cattle in open feedlots are highly vulnerable to heat stress during summer. Heat stress causes production losses, health problems, and significant animal suffering in intensive beef systems.
Heat stress causes genuine suffering including hyperthermia, respiratory distress, and reduced immune function. Severe heat events can be fatal. Feedlots that provide shade structures, adequate water access, and misting systems significantly reduce heat stress burdens. Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of heat events, making heat management more critical.