Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Heat Stress in Summer Housing

Pigs have limited thermoregulation capacity and are highly susceptible to heat stress in warm climates and poorly ventilated housing.

Key Facts

Pigs cannot sweat and rely on panting and wallowing for thermoregulation
Heat stress above 25 degrees Celsius reduces feed intake and production
Severe heat stress causes hyperthermia, collapse and death
Sprinklers, fans and shade can significantly reduce heat stress burden
Outdoor pigs need wallowing areas or sprinklers to regulate body temperature

Welfare Considerations

Heat stress causes significant suffering in pigs and is a growing welfare concern with climate change. Providing wallowing facilities, shade and ventilation is both welfare-positive and economically sensible given impacts on growth and reproduction.

What You Can Do

Ensure outdoor pigs have access to wallowing areas or sprinkler cooling in summer
Advocate for ventilation standards in pig housing that maintain welfare during heat events
Support research into heat-tolerant breeds and farming systems for warmer climates