Heat stress is a situation that occurs when environmental temperatures exceed the animals ability to dissipate heat, which significantly affects their welfare and productivity. One of the most notable effects of heat stress is a decrease in feed intake, as animals reduce the feed intake to minimize internal metabolic heat production from digestion. At the same time, water consumption increases as animals attempt to regulate their body temperature through evaporation and sweating. This combination of reduced feed intake and increased water consumption can lead to reduced growth and feed efficiency, negatively affecting overall production.
To mitigate the effects of heat stress and drops in feed intake, it is essential to implement several strategies. The recommendation directly related to the feed to encourage intake is the addition of sweeteners, flavourings and palatants to the feed. These additives can improve the palatability of the feed, making it more attractive and encouraging animals to consume more despite hot conditions. This will help maintain nutrient intake. In heat stress situations, these interventions can be particularly valuable in supporting animal health and productivity.
