The welfare impact of heat stress in South American beef cattle and the cost-effectiveness of shade provision
Animals, 16(2), 231. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16020231 (2026)
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Abstract
Heat stress represents a pervasive welfare challenge for beef cattle and other species in tropical and subtropical regions. While its physiological and production impacts are well-documented, quantitative measures of the welfare impact of heat stress remain absent. This study provides the first quantification of the welfare impact of heat stress in beef cattle (mostly Nelore), estimated as cumulative time in thermal discomfort of four intensities (Annoying, Hurtful, Disabling, Excruciating) using the Welfare Footprint Framework. We analyzed climate data from 636 locations over five years across major beef production areas in Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Daily heat stress episodes and chronic heat stress exposure were assessed, respectively, using Comprehensive Climate Index (CCI) levels and the Annual Thermal Load metric, which sums daily excesses above a threshold of thermal comfort (CCI = 30 °C) throughout the year, classifying locations into five risk categories. Welfare impacts were estimated for thirteen heat stress scenarios modeled by considering each CCI level within each thermal risk category. Beef cattle in moderate-risk regions were estimated to experience primarily mild thermal discomfort for an average of 5 h daily. This duration increased to an average of 7 h daily in high-risk areas, of which 4.5 h in moderate to intense thermal discomfort (Hurtful or higher).
Recommended citation:
Schuck-Paim, C., Alonso, W. J., Freitas, A. d. P., de Oliveira, C. P., Fonseca, V. d. F. C., & Borges, T. D. (2026). The welfare impact of heat stress in South American beef cattle and the cost-effectiveness of shade provision. Animals, 16(2), 231. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16020231