Lancaster Farming in Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Heat stress in cattle: winter conditioning aids adaptation

ARS researchers James Bond and Robert E. McDowell conducted trials on heifers kept in 90 F chambers to study heat stress. Winter-conditioned heifers often halted estrous cycles for up to 112 days, while summer-conditioned heifers mostly ceased cycling too but later conceived normal calves. Feeding high-energy, low-fiber diets and ample water aided adaptation. winter-conditioned cattle showed hair loss and coat changes, while summer-conditioned heifers did not. Dr. Bond advises buying cattle in one’s climate region, especially for breeding.