Animal Health
Cows & Buffaloes
Heat Stress and Feed Management in Dairy Animals
Updated 13 Jun 2026 • By Falah Nutrition Desk, Animal Nutrition Advisor
When temperatures climb, dairy animals eat less, drink more and produce less milk - heat stress can silently cut production by 10-25%. Even in Kashmir's relatively mild climate, summer heat waves and poorly ventilated sheds cause real losses. Smart feeding and management protect your milk through summer.
Common Signs
- Rapid breathing or panting, especially midday
- Reduced feed intake
- Milk yield drop during hot spells
- Animals crowding shade or water
- Lower milk fat in summer
- Drop in conception rates in summer months
Possible Causes
- High temperature and humidity
- Poor shed ventilation, tin roofs without insulation
- No shade in open paddocks
- Water shortage when demand doubles
- Feeding heavy meals in the hottest hours
What the Farmer Should Check
- Is drinking water always available, cool and clean? Summer demand can double
- Is the shed ventilated - can air flow through?
- Are animals fed during cool hours (early morning, late evening)?
- Is fresh feed offered more often in smaller amounts?
Feed Guidance
In hot weather, shift feeding to early morning and late evening when animals eat willingly. Because intake drops, every kg must count - use nutrient-dense feeds rather than bulky ones. Mineral-and-vitamin enriched feeds like Goka Smile are formulated to help animals cope with heat stress, repeat breeding and immunity challenges. Never let feed sit and spoil in the heat - offer smaller, fresher portions more often. Above all: unlimited cool water.
Relevant GOKA Products
High Milk-Yielding Cows & Buffaloes
More than 25 liters/day
High TDN feed for fresh & heavy milkers
Dairy Cows & Buffaloes
12-18 liters/day
NDF-rich feed for healthy digestion
When to Contact a Veterinary Doctor
For serious symptoms, consult a qualified veterinary doctor. Feed support can help overall nutrition and recovery but should not replace veterinary treatment.
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