Options for Managing Livestock Production Systems to Adapt to Climate Change

Climatic conditions determine the energy and nutrient metabolism of farm animals and have a major influence on livestock heath, welfare and performance. There are upper and lower critical temperatures for different animal species and age groups. Reducing thermal stress in animal production remains a topic of concern with producers and scientists alike. In order to limit the impact of extreme climate events in the long run, the most important measure consists in implementing preventive means at the level of the farming system itself. This paper discusses recent research findings together with management schemes in preventing and managing of thermal stress by handling external and internal factors in livestock production systems. Preventive measures against thermal stress are described as basic structural adjustments and the modifications that can be implemented readily, according to animal health and welfare requirements and refer to (a) environmental modification and thermal comfort in various housing systems: pasture management, ventilation, stocking densities, resting pens, waste management, etc; (c) action on animals: genetic selection for breeds resistant to infectious disease, parasites and climate extremes, reproduction management, etc; (d) action on feed: feeding schemes, supplements and additives, vitamins, minerals, etc; and (e) action on staff: handling animals, milking, sharing, etc. Moreover, measures to be taken both in situations of chronic thermal stress and heat or cold strokes are presented as they are applied to (a) limit stress, (b) monitor the temperature felt by animals, (c) adapt diet and drinking water supplies and (d) correct physiological imbalances. Examples are given for different farm species (cattle, sheep, goat, poultry and pigs) and different production systems (intensive, extensive, alternative). The paper concludes with a practical guide for the effective handling of thermal stress at farm level, summarizing the results from recent research studies on the specific topic.