This Tech Seminar was originally published in 2020 as Calf Note #220. It has been moved to Tech Seminars for consistency within Calf Notes Academy.
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This Calf Note focuses on practical strategies to reduce heat stress in young calves during summer. Key management approaches include improving airflow, providing shade, and selecting appropriate bedding. Increasing air movement—by raising hutches or using fans—lowers temperatures and improves calf performance. Shade is essential, particularly for translucent hutches, as unshaded calves experience higher body temperatures and stress indicators. Bedding also plays an important role: straw retains heat and promotes flies, while materials like sand, wood shavings, or rice hulls remain cooler and cleaner, helping improve calf comfort.
Nutritional management is equally critical during heat stress. Water intake increases substantially with rising temperatures, making continuous access to clean water essential. Electrolytes can help maintain hydration and acid-base balance, especially during periods of high heat. Because heat stress increases maintenance energy requirements and may reduce starter intake, additional milk feeding can support growth and efficiency. While various feed additives are marketed for heat stress, there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness in calves. Overall, a combination of environmental management and nutritional support is necessary to minimize heat stress and maintain calf health and performance.