Livestock

Cattle Welfare During Heat Waves: Evidence and Management 2026

Heat waves pose increasing welfare risks to housed and grazing cattle as climate change increases frequency and severity of extreme temperature events.

Key Facts

Cattle begin to experience heat stress at temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius with high humidity
Heat stress reduces feed intake, milk production, fertility and immune function in dairy cows
UK summer temperatures increasingly exceed heat stress thresholds for housed dairy cattle
Dark-coated and heavily muscled beef breeds show earlier onset of heat stress than lighter breeds

Welfare Considerations

Heat stress causes welfare impacts including panting, shade-seeking, reduced feed intake, increased water intake, reduced lying time and reduced milk production. Severe heat stress causes hyperthermia and can be fatal. Welfare priorities include providing shade access for grazing cattle, installing fans and sprinklers in housed systems, increasing water trough provision, and adjusting feeding times to cooler periods.

What You Can Do

Ensure all housed cattle have access to adequate ventilation and fans during summer
Provide shade access for grazing cattle through trees or artificial shade structures
Increase water trough capacity and cleaning frequency during hot weather
Monitor cattle behaviour and respiration rates during heat waves as welfare indicators