Warmer temperatures are quickly approaching, and that means producers should start considering how to help their animals handle the heat. Heat stress is almost inevitable, but some management practices can be implemented to help animals better cope with rising temperatures.<\/p>\n
All mammals regulate their internal body temperature involuntarily. Heat stress occurs when the animal\u2019s ability to self-regulate and lower core body temperature is overwhelmed and the animal\u2019s performance and\/or health is compromised.<\/p>\n
Signs of heat stress:<\/strong><\/p>\n Effects of heat stress:<\/b><\/p>\n Being proactive is the best approach to helping animals deal with heat stress. Having a solid management plan in place to combat heat stress could play a crucial role in an operation\u2019s ability to maintain animal performance during periods of increased heat. Some management options include:<\/p>\n Shade<\/strong>: Temperature can be lowered by providing areas where animals can get out of direct sunlight.<\/p>\n Improved ventilation<\/strong>: Providing fans or allowing for adequate air movement helps alleviate heat stress.<\/p>\n Clean, cool drinking water<\/strong>: Water is necessary to keep the animal\u2019s core body temperature within normal limits. Providing cool water will also help cool the animal\u2019s core.<\/p>\n Wetting<\/strong>: Gradually wetting an animal with cool water from sprinklers or hoses is an effective way to cool an animal suffering from heat stress. Wetting the ground can also cool the area where animals lay and reduce the effects of heat stress.<\/p>\n Timing of feeding<\/strong>: By moving the animal\u2019s feeding time to late afternoon or evening will allow rumen fermentation (which creates heat) to take place during cooler temperatures.<\/p>\n\n
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