During hot summer days, cows can suffer considerably from heat stress, especially during prolonged heat periods. This has a direct impact on their welfare, health and milk production. In this article, we explain what heat stress is, how to recognise it and what measures you can take to protect your herd.
Heat stress in cows
Heat stress occurs when cows cannot adequately release their body heat to the environment. Cows are sensitive to high temperatures, especially when humidity is also high. Because cows dissipate their heat mainly through respiration, their internal heat regulation quickly becomes unbalanced in prolonged heat.
How can you detect heat stress?
Timely recognition of heat stress is crucial. Pay attention to the following signs:
What can you do besides ventilate?
Ventilation is important, but there are more ways to reduce heat stress in cows. Here are some practical tips:
Water is essential for heat regulation. In hot weather, cows can drink as much as twice as much as normal. Provide sufficient drinking points with well-flowing, cool and clean water.
Our Dual waterbeds help cows get rid of body heat by transferring heat to concrete via the waterbed. Only when placed directly on concrete does this cooling effect work optimally.
Digestion of feed produces heat. Therefore, feed during the cooler parts of the day, such as early in the morning or late in the evening. This helps avoid spikes in body temperature and promotes feed intake.
Cows need space to move stress-free, especially when looking for cooler places. Good barn layout and smart solutions such as feed fences and cow traffic products reduce crowding between them. This promotes calm in the flock, even during hot days.
Dry cows and high-yielding dairy cows are particularly susceptible to heat stress. These groups require special attention, for example by housing them separately in a cooler environment and monitoring them extra for signs of stress or reduced performance.
In conclusion
Heat stress is a serious problem that is becoming increasingly common. Fortunately, great strides can be made in improving cow comfort during hot periods with relatively simple measures. By being alert to the signs and adjusting your management, you can protect your herd's health and production.
Curious about our heat-regulating Dual waterbeds? Find out more here!