With summer temperatures rising and threatening milk yields and fertility rates, dairy farmers are being encouraged to act quickly to protect their herds from heat stress.
ForFarmers emphasizes that dairy cows function optimally within ambient temperature ranges from 5°C to 25°C.
“When we are bothered by the heat, we don’t operate at our best. The same applies to cows,” explains Andrew Torrence, an anti-minant expert at feed companies.
“When temperatures exceed this range, cows begin to show signs of heat stress, such as panting and drooling. These self-regulating behaviors reduce feed intake and affect overall productivity.”
He adds: “The impact on fertility rates can be seen in the form of lower pregnancy rates,” highlights the importance of early planning to help herds deal with rising temperatures.
To support feed intake during the hot season, Forfarmers recommends providing fresh feed in the cooler portions of the day.
Increased energy density in your diet and incorporating high-quality, easy-to-digest diets can help reduce the heat produced from fermentation while maintaining intake and performance.
Recognizing the serious risks that heat stress poses to herd health and productivity, Forfarmers advises dairy producers to take the following measures quickly to quickly protect animals over the summer:
• Shade and Shelter: Grazing groups should have access to shaded areas, taking into account the cattle bringing indoors during the hottest parts of the day.
• Water Access: Whether raised or grazing, cattle need a sufficient supply of clean, cold water. Because breastfeeding cows can consume up to 140 liters per day, the water trough should provide a flow rate of 20 liters per minute to suit their natural drinking behavior.
•Cleanness and Space: Water must be cleaned regularly to prevent germ growth and promote alcohol consumption. Provide at least 10cm of drinking space per cow to prevent crowding and ensure consistent intake.
•Ventilation: Effective airflow is essential in a containment system. Open or protected ridge vents, additional air bays, and fans improve ventilation and cow comfort, especially in busy areas such as yard collection.
• Fertility Support: Including high energy products such as LINTEC can increase dietary energy density and help offset the negative energy balance caused by reduced feed intake during periods of heat stress.
