Episode 354 - Hot Calves, Lower Gains: Rethinking Summer Calf Care - UMN Extension's The Moos Room

Brad takes a closer look at heat stress in dairy calves and cows. This episode highlights several recent studies on how temperature-humidity index affects calf behavior, lying time, respiration rates, shade use, and growth performance.

Brad discusses research from the University of Guelph, The Ohio State University, and Mississippi State showing that heat-stressed calves spend less time lying down, stand more often, breathe harder, and may gain less weight when shade is not provided. He also reviews a Texas A&M study using precision livestock technology to monitor drinking behavior, rumen temperature, and heat stress responses in robotic milking herds.

The big takeaway: heat stress in calves deserves more attention. Simple strategies like shade cloth, better ventilation, and more thoughtful housing design may help improve calf comfort, growth, and long-term performance.

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