Curbing Cattle Heat Stress

Handling cattle early in the morning before temperatures get too high is always recommended. Plan to handle cattle before 8:00 a.m. and never after 10:00 a.m. during summer months.

The animal’s core temperature peaks approximately two hours after the environmental temperature peaks and takes four to six hours to lower back to normal temperature. With this in mind, forget handling cattle in the evening to reduce the risk of heat stress.

When processing cattle during high heat seasons, work cattle in smaller groups so they are not standing in the holding area much longer than 30 minutes.

Try to find and utilize facilities that are shaded with good air flow to help reduce the heat. A sprinkler system may assist in cooling the area, if the water droplet size is large. Never over-crowd
working facilities, work cattle slowly, and use low-stress handling techniques. Remember that processing cattle in any temperature elevates the animal’s core temperature.

Cattle movements should be short distances. Strategic planning on pen movements will reduce
unnecessary movements and potential heat stress. Moving heavier cattle closer to loading facilities
throughout the feeding period can be beneficial.

Keep in mind that compromised animals are at higher risk for heat stress. Those animals that are sick or lame are usually running higher temperatures than normal (average temperature for a beef animal is 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit), combined with hot temperature and high humidity raises their risk of heat stress. Take extra precautions with these animals to provide additional resources like shade and
cooling.

Sources: Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance; Rob Eirich, NE Extension Educator
               
Artwork: Cattle Heat Stress Tracker
Animal Husbandry and Livestock Books
Farm Supply
A Guide to Raising Beef Cattle