Protect Livestock from Summer Heat Stress

By Scout Nelson

Livestock owners should prepare before hot weather arrives to protect cattle, sheep, and other ruminants from heat stress. High temperatures combined with humidity can quickly affect animal health, welfare, and production. Heat events are expected to increase around the Fourth of July weekend, making early planning especially important.

North Dakota State University Extension livestock specialists encourage producers to monitor weather forecasts and use heat stress tools such as the Temperature-Humidity Index chart and the Cattle Comfort Index available through the North Dakota Agricultural Weather Network. These resources help identify when livestock face moderate, severe, or extreme heat stress. Rachel Gibbs, NDSU Extension ruminant systems management specialist, and Dr. Jake Galbreath, NDSU Extension veterinarian, provide practical recommendations to help producers reduce heat-related risks before and during extreme weather.

A reliable supply of clean, good-quality water is one of the most important steps in preventing heat stress. Livestock often need much more water during hot weather, sometimes twice their normal amount. Water troughs should provide enough space for every animal, and producers should regularly check water systems to ensure proper flow and pressure. Animals that have gone without water for an extended period should be rehydrated carefully under veterinary guidance.

Providing adequate shade also helps animals stay cooler. Temporary or permanent shade structures should allow enough room for all animals while maintaining good airflow. Fly control before heat events is also important because flies often cause animals to group together, increasing body heat.

“During heat events, producers should regularly evaluate water sources,” says Gibbs.

Managing pen surfaces by adding light-colored bedding or lightly wetting the ground before peak temperatures can reduce heat buildup. Sprinkler systems may also help when used correctly without raising humidity.

“Any type of livestock handling, processing or transportation should be avoided during heat events as much as possible,” says Dr. Galbreath.

If handling is necessary, producers should work with livestock early in the morning before 10 a.m. Feeding schedules can also be adjusted by offering larger meals during the evening when temperatures are lower. Farmers should watch animals closely for signs such as heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, or rapid breathing and contact a veterinarian immediately if severe heat stress develops.

For more information on dealing with heat stress in small ruminants, see “Heat Stress in Small Ruminants” from South Dakota State University Extension and “Managing Heat Stress in Sheep and Goats” from Nebraska Extension.

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