Prevention and Signs of Heat Stress in Cattle

Jun 26, 2025

By Travis Meteer

Summer is heating up and so are the cattle! Heat stress is a reoccurring issue in the summertime. Black hided, sick, or heavy-weight cattle are most susceptible to heat stress. When it comes to heat stress, it’s important to know the warning signs and what can be done to prevent it.

Signs

Heat stress typically arises when temperatures start to exceed 80F and 90F degrees. When it hits 80F cattle are moderately at risk for heat stress, and 90F places them in the high-risk category. Unlike humans, cattle do not sweat efficiently, and their rumen is a heat magnet inside of them. Some of the common signs of heat stress are panting, open-mouthed breathing, and excessive slobbering. You might also see cattle grouping together and actively seeking shaded areas.

Source : illinois.edu

Video: PRRS Eradication Strategies - Dr. DeBuse and Dr. Tousignant

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Neil DeBuse from Kalmbach Feeds and Dr. Steve Tousignant from Vaxxinova US discuss PRRS management strategies, recombination risks, whole genome sequencing, and the role of autogenous immunization programs in swine systems. They highlight practical approaches to improving immunity, reducing outbreaks, and advancing PRRS control across production systems. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Being PRRS negative sooner is a real key for eradication because every additional positive week increases production losses and viral exposure risks." - Dr. Neil DeBuse

Meet the guest: Dr. Neil DeBuse is a veterinarian at Kalmbach Feeds with more than 30 years of experience in swine health and production. His work focuses on PRRS control, biosecurity, immunity, and improving production stability across commercial swine systems in the United States and internationally.

Dr. Steve Tousignant is Director of the Swine Business Unit and Technical Services Veterinarian at Vaxxinova US, with a DVM and PhD from the University of Minnesota. His experience combines epidemiology, technical services, and practical immunization strategies designed to support consistent herd performance and long-term production stability. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the Swine Inner Circle!