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Heat Stress in Pigs: Recognition and Welfare Management

Pigs are highly susceptible to heat stress due to their limited ability to sweat. This guide covers welfare impacts and cooling strategies.

Key Facts

Pigs have limited sweat glands and rely primarily on panting to dissipate heat
Heat stress occurs when temperature exceeds 25°C for most pig categories
Signs include rapid breathing, redness, lethargy, and reduced feed intake
Severe heat stress causes heat stroke and can be fatal
Sows farrowing or nursing in heat are at particularly high risk
Production impacts include reduced growth, reproduction failure, and increased mortality

Welfare Considerations and Management

Welfare-centred heat stress management requires proactive cooling strategies deployed before temperatures become critical. Sprinklers or drippers (especially effective in sows and weaners), fans and ventilation systems, and access to wallowing areas (in outdoor systems) are the primary cooling tools. Shade provision in outdoor systems is essential. Feed timing shifted to cooler parts of the day maintains intake. Regular monitoring of respiratory rate indicates heat stress severity.

What You Can Do

Ensure adequate ventilation and cooling systems are functional before summer
Provide drippers or sprinklers in high-risk areas during hot weather
Monitor respiratory rates as an early indicator of heat stress
Adjust feeding times to cooler morning and evening periods during hot weather