Rising global temperatures are increasing heat stress in dairy and beef cattle, causing reduced productivity, compromised immune function, and welfare harm that will worsen with climate change.
Cattle heat stress represents a current and growing welfare challenge as climate change increases frequency and intensity of hot weather events. Heat-stressed cattle show behavioural indicators including bunching in shade, reduced feeding, and increased standing to maximise heat dissipation. Physiologically, heat stress causes elevated body temperature, respiratory alkalosis from panting, and suppressed immune function that increases disease susceptibility. Reproductive failure and reduced milk production have welfare implications beyond productivity - they indicate animals are physiologically struggling. Providing shade, ventilation, and cooling access during hot weather is a direct welfare intervention that also protects productivity.