Dairy production management update - The well-being of dairy cows in hot and humid climates .1. Housing and effects of heat stress

This column is part of a two-part presentation on the welfare oi cattle in hot, humid climates. Such climates pose a special problem for dairy production. The optimum environmental temperature for dairy cows is between 16 degrees C and 25 degrees C. Furthermore, as humidity increases, cows have a decreasing ability to tolerate heat. Heat stress can be reflected in decreased milk production and reproductive performance. This column discusses various types of housing for dairy cows and the effects of heat stress. Part II, which will be published in an upcoming issue, discusses ventilation and cooling for dairy cows and the reduction of other forms of stress, such as transient voltage and improper nutrition and handling.