Heat Wave Coming to Drought Areas

An article on DTN/Progressive Farmer

The first big heatwave of the summer is upon a large portion of cattle country, which means livestock producers should take action to help prevent problems.

Kansas State University Beef Extension Veterinarian A.J. Tarpoff said cattle have a hard time adapting to the higher temperatures than other animals. "Heat stress coping behaviors is what we see when cattle are adapting to warmer temperatures. Whenever we get hot, we sweat to maintain homeostasis. For livestock species, and especially cattle, that capability gets overwhelmed," he said.

Some cattle will dissipate heat by panting. Besides this, producers can identify heat stress when cattle stand in large groups near water tanks and shaded areas. While the cattle are trying to increase airflow by standing, it is actually hampered by being bunched up in a group.

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