During the summer, many pig farms are struggling as pigs show signs of anorexia, heavy breathing, convulsions, diarrhea, and even sudden death without an apparent cause. The underlying issue is heat stress and electrolyte depletion—conditions that may seem minor but can fatally affect the entire herd if not addressed promptly.
Prolonged heat not only impacts humans but also poses severe consequences for livestock, especially pigs. When temperatures rise, the risk of heat stress in pigs increases rapidly and unexpectedly, resulting in significant economic losses for farmers. Early detection and timely intervention are critical to protecting livestock during extreme summer heat.
Image of pig farming in summer
I. CLINICAL SIGNS
– Pigs lie down, breathe rapidly, groan, and stop eating.
– Diarrhea (watery feces) adheres around the anus.
– Some pigs may show mild convulsions, tremors, or sudden death.
– Sows may abort, have reduced milk production, or high fever.
These signs are caused by heat-induced dehydration and loss of electrolytes (Na⁺, K⁺, Cl⁻, HCO₃⁻), leading to metabolic disorders, hemoconcentration, and overload of cardiovascular and respiratory systems—ultimately causing heat stroke and death.
II. CAUSES
– Ambient temperature in pig houses exceeds 35°C with poor ventilation.
– Prolonged heat waves result in increased water intake but insufficient electrolyte and mineral replenishment.
– Reduced feed intake and excessive resting lower immunity, increasing susceptibility to secondary infections.
Image of pig farming in summer
III. EMERGENCY RESPONSE & PREVENTION
Immediate intervention at the first signs of heat stress:
– Install additional cooling fans and spray cool water over the pig’s neck area to gradually reduce body temperature.
– Inject Analgin 500 Inj to ease discomfort and lower body temperature.
– Administer 0.9% saline and 5% dextrose solutions if dehydration is severe.
– Provide oral rehydration solutions such as Oresol oral, Coolvit, or Vita C 20%.
Enhancing overall herd resistance:
– Regularly supplement drinking water with electrolytes, vitamins, and liver-kidney detoxifiers (every 2–3 days).
Products such as Coolvit or Antistress KC can help balance electrolytes, boost immunity, and support detoxification.
– Disinfect housing regularly using agents like Iondin @ or Dexon Super to eliminate pathogens and insect vectors.
Image of pig farming in summer
Improving housing conditions:
– Ensure pig houses are elevated and well-ventilated; plant trees around the facility for shade.
Use shade nets over rooftops to reduce internal temperature.
– Install ventilation fans and misting systems for cooling.
Closed housing should have backup generators and alarm systems for power outages to ensure continuous operation.
– Maintain optimal stocking density and frequently clean manure and waste to prevent heat buildup.
– Feed pigs according to their developmental stage; feed during cooler times (early morning or late afternoon) and avoid overfeeding.
– Provide additional drinkers to ensure free access to water at all times.
– Avoid directly bathing pigs with cold water during peak heat hours, as this may trigger thermal shock.
Heat stress is a common issue in summer but is fully manageable with proactive preventive measures. Investing in proper housing infrastructure, nutrition, and electrolyte management is essential to ensure pigs remain healthy, resilient, and productive throughout the hot season.