29/05/2026
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Hot Weather = Higher Mastitis Riskโ
When temperatures rise, cows donโt just feel uncomfortable โ they become more vulnerable to mastitis and your milk yield can take a serious hit.
Heat stressed cows spend more time standing, less time lying down and often eat less. This can weaken immune function, increase exposure to environmental bacteria (as cows crowd together in shady areas) and create the perfect conditions for mastitis infections to take hold.
At the same time, reduced dry matter intake means less energy available for milk production. This results in litres disappearing from your tank; just when you need them the most.
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Ensure plenty of clean, fresh water is available with enough access space in relation to your herd size.
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Keep cubicles clean, dry and comfortable.
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Maximise airflow and ventilation where possible.
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Monitor fly populations and react accordingly with fly control measures.
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Maintain excellent milking routine hygiene.
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Monitor cows closely for early signs of heat stress.
๐ฅSigns Of Heat Stress In Cows๐ฅ
๐ก๏ธ Increased panting or rapid breathing.
๐ก๏ธ Cows standing for longer periods and reluctancy to lie down.
๐ก๏ธ Reduced feed intakes.
๐ก๏ธ Increased water consumption.
๐ก๏ธ Open mouthed breathing and excessive drooling in severe cases.
A few small management changes during hot spells can protect both udder health and milk yield.
Donโt let the weather eat into your milk cheque!
