Seasonal Guide · June 2025 · 5 min read
Heat stress costs the U.S. livestock industry over $2.4 billion annually through reduced performance, lower fertility, and increased mortality. Prevention through environment and management is far more effective than treatment.
Monitor the Temperature-Humidity Index (THI)—cattle begin experiencing stress at a THI of 72, and severe stress occurs above 84. Watch for open-mouth breathing, excessive drooling, bunching in groups, and reduced feed intake. Nighttime cooling is critical; if overnight temperatures stay above 70°F, animals cannot recover and cumulative stress builds rapidly over consecutive hot days.
Provide a minimum of 40 square feet of shade per animal using permanent structures, portable shade cloths, or tree lines oriented to allow airflow. Ensure water availability at a rate of at least 2 gallons per 100 pounds of body weight per day during heat events. Add extra water tanks so animals do not have to walk more than 800 feet to drink, and check flow rates daily.
Shift feeding times to late evening—delivering 70% of the daily ration after 7 PM reduces the metabolic heat of digestion during peak afternoon temperatures. Increase the energy density of the ration by adding fat at 2–3% of dry matter, which generates less heat of fermentation than fiber. Avoid handling, sorting, or transporting animals during the hottest part of the day.
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