Alternative Ventilation Tools and Tips for Small Swine Farms and Show Pigs
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EmailSeptember 5, 2023
When temperatures and humidity reach high levels for livestock, particularly pigs that have outside access, comfort can be compromised, which will in turn compromise herd health. Research indicates that as heat and humidity increases, so does the body temperature of animals. The effects of heat stress can lead to reduced feed intake, decreased weight gain, and potentially lead to higher mortality rates.
Video Transcript
When temperatures reach above 80 degrees Fahrenheit and the relative humidity is above 65 percent, pig’s comfort is compromised. This kind of weather can be especially deadly for swine, as they have non- functioning sweat glands. Panting becomes less efficient in older pigs because their lungs don’t increase in size as fast as their body. During a heat wave it is difficult for animals to maintain their normal body temperature. Research indicates that as the heat and humidity increase during the day, so does the body temperature of animals. Effects of heat stress can reduce feed intake, reduce weight gain, even death. Effects of heat stress are hard on livestock. General signs of heat stress are: panting open mouth breathing lack of coordination trembling inability to stand high rectal temperature Water animals and utilize electrolytes if needed to get animals to drink. Always allow access to water, without them making a mess of their pen. Rinse animals to keep cool. Pigs cannot sweat, so giving them shade or a mud pile to lay in to keep themselves cool are some simple steps when they are allowed outdoor access. Before transportation make sure the animals have been hydrated. Use wet shavings for bedding, never use straw. Straw acts as an insulator. Transport animals during the coolest part of the day, do not crowd the trailer and have adequate air flow throughout the trailer. Additional ways to mitigate heat stress: Invest in some durable household fans. Adjust the fan to blow across the pen instead of down onto the pig, this will create a steadier airflow in the entire space for the pig and decrease dust to get into the air. Consider freezing ice in plastic pop bottles for the animals to lay on. Work pigs in the early morning and late afternoon to avoid overheating. Consider feeding most of the animal’s diet in the evening since digestion increases the animal’s body temperature. Sprinklers with big water drops can cool down animals. Remember, dark hided animals are more susceptible to heat stress than light colored animals.
