Cows develop heat stress much more quickly than humans. Agroscope has studied this physical stress and offers advice for its alleviation.
Unlike humans, cows handle cold better than heat. Their ideal temperature range lies between 4 and 15 degrees Celsius. In this ‘thermoneutral zone’ cows don’t have to expend any energy to regulate their body temperature.
However, global warming is increasing the number of high-temperature days. Researchers at Agroscope have conducted several studies to investigate how heat stress affects cows. These studies monitored pasture-grazed Holstein cows, both with and without access to shade and with different management strategies. Weather data and data about the cows’ activity were recorded, along with physiological parameters in milk, blood, urine and breath. Physiological indicators of heat stress were observed from as little as 18°C degrees in bright sunshine, highlighting the need for timely mitigation measures. Shade, cooling water and fans reduce heat stress and have a positive impact on animal wellbeing.
A video summarises the results of the studies and highlights typical signs of heat stress. These findings can help improve the wellbeing of cows during heat waves and modify farming practices.
The study is financially supported by the Swiss Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office, the Haldimann Foundation and the Eva Husi Foundation.
