Farm Animals

Pig Sow Heat Stress Management

Heat stress in sows causes reproductive failure, reduced feed intake, and welfare compromise. Targeted management during hot weather prevents much of this impact.

Key Facts

Sows are particularly sensitive to heat stress during gestation and lactation
Heat stress causes reduced milk production, embryo mortality, and longer weaning-to-service intervals
Upper critical temperature for sows is approximately 20-22 degrees C in lactation
Cooling systems including fans, drip cooling, and shade significantly reduce heat burden
Hot climate pig production requires proactive summer management

Welfare Considerations

Lactating sows in heat stress conditions reduce feed intake, produce less milk, and show physiological indicators of acute distress. Heat-stressed sows cannot meet the nutritional demands of their litter, compromising both sow and piglet welfare simultaneously. Effective cooling management during hot weather is an essential welfare requirement.

What You Can Do

Support welfare standards requiring heat stress management for lactating sows
Advocate for heat stress provisions in pig welfare regulations globally
Choose pork from farms with documented hot weather management protocols