Rising temperatures are increasing the frequency and severity of heat stress events for cattle, affecting welfare, productivity, and reproductive performance. Adaptation strategies are becoming increasingly urgent.
Cattle heat stress welfare encompasses both acute suffering during severe heat events and chronic welfare compromise during extended warm periods. The physiological indicators - elevated respiration rate, reduced rumination, seeking water and shade, reduced activity - are measurable and validate the welfare concern. Housing design significantly affects heat stress risk: buildings oriented to maximize ventilation, with shade provision and cooling systems, dramatically reduce welfare impact. As climate change intensifies, heat stress mitigation transitions from optional management choice to essential welfare infrastructure in affected regions.