Outdoor Pig Summer Heat Welfare | Animal Welfare Hub

Outdoor pigs in summer face significant heat stress risk due to their inability to sweat, and welfare management through shade, wallowing, and water provision is essential.

Key Facts

Pigs cannot sweat effectively and rely almost entirely on panting and wallowing for evaporative cooling
Heat stress in pigs begins at 25 degrees C and becomes severe above 30 degrees C
Outdoor sows in summer require deep wallows with continuous water supply and adequate shade structures
Heat stress impairs reproductive performance, growth rate, immune function, and feed intake
Dark-colored or thinner-skinned pigs are more susceptible to sunburn as well as heat stress

Welfare Considerations

Outdoor pigs in summer experience a genuine welfare risk from heat stress and sunburn that must be actively managed. The visible signs of heat stress - rapid, shallow breathing, lateral recumbency, and cessation of activity - represent significant suffering. Wallows that provide genuine thermoregulation (deep enough for full body immersion), shade that covers all animals simultaneously, and fresh water are non-negotiable welfare requirements for outdoor pigs in warm climates during summer.

What You Can Do

If keeping outdoor pigs, ensure wallows are deep, shaded, and continuously replenished with water
Provide shade structures large enough to accommodate all pigs simultaneously without competition
Apply factor 50 sunscreen to pigs' pink skin areas during the highest risk periods
Monitor pigs closely for signs of heat stress - rapid breathing and prostration require immediate action
Consider temporary housing for the most vulnerable animals during heatwaves