In areas such as Pakistan, where temperatures frequently rise above comfort levels for livestock, heat stress in dairy cattle becomes a serious issue. Chronic exposure to heat reduces feed consumption, lowers milk production, and affects cattle health and reproduction. Familiarisation with the symptoms, causes, and prevention techniques is vital to each dairy farmer looking to have a healthy and productive herd.
What is Heat Stress in Cattle?
Heat stress is a situation when a cow’s body fails to remove enough heat to keep the core body temperature stable. Unlike human beings, cattle are unable to sweat effectively and depend mostly on respiration and behaviour modification to manage body heat. This leaves them extremely susceptible to the scorching heat and humidity found during Pakistan’s prolonged summers.
Symptoms of Heat Stress in Dairy Cattle
Early detection of heat stress is critical. Here are some common signs:
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Increased respiratory rate or open-mouth breathing
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Excessive drooling or salivation
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Reduced feed intake
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Significant drop in milk yield
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Lethargy or reluctance to move
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Crowding around water troughs or shade
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Elevated body temperature
If not addressed, severe heat stress can lead to heat exhaustion or even death.
Common Causes of Heat Stress
Several factors contribute to heat stress in dairy cattle:
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High ambient temperatures (above 25°C can begin to stress cattle)
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High humidity levels, which reduce the effectiveness of evaporative cooling
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Lack of shade or shelter
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Inadequate ventilation in sheds
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Insufficient water intake
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High-energy feed during peak summer without nutritional balancing
Effective Prevention Methods for Heat Stress
Dairy farmers in Pakistan can take several proactive steps to minimise the impact of heat stress:
1. Ensure Constant Access to Clean, Cool Water
Water is the first line of defence. Cows can drink 100+ liters per day during extreme heat. Clean water should be available at all times, preferably shaded and located near feeding areas.
2. Provide Adequate Shade and Ventilation
Natural shade (trees) or constructed shelters help cattle avoid direct sunlight. Ventilation fans or open-sided sheds can dramatically reduce heat accumulation inside barns.
3. Modify Feeding Practices
Offer feed during the cooler parts of the day (early morning or late evening) when the appetite is higher. Avoid high-energy feeds unless supported with proper additives. DairyLac’s scientifically balanced 22 Number Feed and Dairy Wanda ensure adequate energy and mineral balance to support cattle through heat stress periods.
4. Monitor Herd Health Regularly
Monitor respiratory rate closely, temperature, and behaviour. Early intervention at the onset of symptoms can avert progression.
Heat stress is among the principal unseen dangers to dairy productivity in Pakistan’s climate. It impacts everything from feed consumption and milk yield to fertility and immune status. Prevention starts with common-sense measures like water and shade, but is amplified with the aid of science-based nutritional interventions.
With DairyLac’s 22 Number Feed, farmers can safeguard their herds, sustain milk yield, and guarantee long-term profitability despite the most extreme heat waves.