Heat stress in cattle causes reduced welfare, production losses and health problems that are worsening with climate change across UK and global farming systems.
Heat stress causes progressive welfare harm from mild discomfort through panting and reduced activity to severe hyperthermia and death in extreme cases. Dairy cows in late pregnancy experience particularly severe welfare impacts as their metabolic heat production is highest. Climate projections indicate increasing frequency of heat stress events in UK and European dairy systems, making proactive adaptation essential rather than optional. Farms without shade, cooling or ventilation systems are failing basic welfare requirements as summer temperatures increase.