Temperatures in the high 80's and higher can cause serious problems. Heat stress can cause general discomfort, decline in animal performance, and animal death. During these times, provide adequate shade, if possible, and plenty of drinking water. Heat from the sun is a major culprit in over stressed animals. If animals need to be worked, do it as early or as late in the day as possible.
Animals cool themselves primarily by panting and through water evaporation from the skin.
Increased respiration during hot weather is especially important for pigs and other animals that do not sweat. Animals must replace the water loss to cool themselves. Proper ventilation helps maintain livestock health during hot and humid weather. Without adequate air exchanges and airflow distribution within livestock buildings, heat and moisture accumulate and animal production is affected. Listen to local weather reports for the temperature humidity index for our area.