Farm Animals

Pig Heat Stress Welfare Summer

Heat stress in pigs causes significant suffering and welfare compromise in hot climates and during summer months in temperate zones.

Key Facts

Pigs have no functional sweat glands and cannot pant efficiently like dogs
Critical temperature threshold for discomfort is around 25 degrees Celsius for adult pigs
Heat-stressed pigs show reduced feed intake, increased water consumption, and prostration
Wet sand wallows or sprinkler systems dramatically reduce heat stress in pigs
Climate change is extending heat stress risk periods in many pig-producing regions

Welfare Considerations

Pigs experiencing heat stress suffer from hyperthermia, respiratory distress, and metabolic disruption. Without cooling access, pigs in hot conditions face significant preventable suffering.

What You Can Do

Support pig farming standards requiring heat mitigation measures in warm climates
Advocate for wallowing access as a welfare requirement in outdoor pig systems
Choose pork from farms with demonstrated heat stress management protocols