Extension Publications
Extension Publications

The Impact of Heat Stress and Fescue Toxicosis on Beef Cattle Reproduction

The Impact of Heat Stress and Fescue Toxicosis on Beef Cattle Reproduction

ASC-271
The Impact of Heat Stress and Fescue Toxicosis on Beef Cattle Reproduction

Authored by: Tyler Purvis Les Anderson Darrh Bullock Kevin Laurent Jeff Lehmkuhler Katherine VanValin

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Abstract

Heat stress is a common problem facing beef-cattle producers throughout the United States, and in 2003 was estimated to cost the U.S. beef industry $369 million dollars annually. Heat stress occurs when an animal is creating and absorbing more heat than they can dissipate, which increases core temperature and physiological stress. Common symptoms of heat stress include increased respiration rates, panting, or standing in water such as ponds or puddles. Heat stress results in negative impacts on growth, health, and reproduction. Cattle can have reduced conception rates, growth rates, and milk production during the summer. During severe heat stress, conception rates can fall to 10%-20% or lower compared to 40%-60% conception rates observed in cooler months.

Core Details

Publication ID

ASC-271

Status

New

Publication Date

May. 19, 2025

Series

Multi-Part Series

N/A


Categorical Details

Department(s)

Language

English

Peer Reviewed?

Yes


Keywords

Heat Stress, Fescue Toxicosis, Beef Cattle, Reproduction,

Contact Information

Tawana Brown
Associate Director, Educational Publications

361 Blazer Dining 343 S. Martin Luther King Blvd. Lexington, KY 40526-0012

+1 (859) 257-7566

tawana.brown@uky.edu