What impact do temperature extremes have on livestock?

Temperature extremes have a significant impact on livestock, primarily by leading to stress and disease. When animals are exposed to excessively high or low temperatures, their physiological systems can become strained as they try to maintain homeostasis.

Heat stress in livestock can result in decreased feed intake, reduced weight gain, and impaired reproductive performance. Animals may become lethargic and exhibit increased respiration rates as they work harder to cool down. If the heat stress is severe or prolonged, it can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which may be fatal.

Cold stress, on the other hand, can result in similar adverse effects, including hypothermia, increased metabolic demands to maintain body temperature, and greater susceptibility to infections due to a compromised immune response. The stress of extreme cold can lead to lower production levels and higher morbidity rates in livestock, placing additional burdens on animal care and management.

Overall, the impact of temperature extremes on livestock is detrimental, highlighting the importance of managing environmental conditions to ensure animal welfare and productivity.