Impact of heat stress on milk production

Abstract

Heat stress in dairy cows has been shown to have a significant impact on milk production. Understanding the impact of heat stress on dairy cows and implementing proactive measures to address it is essential for maintaining optimal milk production and overall herd health. When cows experience heat stress, their feed intake decreases, and the metabolic processes that support milk production are disrupted. This leads to a decrease in milk yields and overall production efficiency. In addition, heat stress can also affect the quality of the milk, leading to higher somatic cell counts and decreased fat and protein content. The dairy industry needs to recognize and address the negative effects of heat stress on milk production to mitigate its impact. Dairy farmers need to implement strategies to mitigate the effects of heat stress on their cows. This can include providing ample access to shade, ensuring proper ventilation in barns, and optimizing cooling systems. Additionally, adjusting feeding schedules and formulations to account for the decreased feed intake during periods of heat stress can help support milk production. © 2025 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.