Punjab Heatwave Raises Cattle Health Concerns

Rising temperatures across Punjab are increasing health risks for dairy cattle, with veterinary experts warning farmers about a sharp rise in constipation and digestive disorders during the peak summer season. Specialists from Punjab Agricultural University’s Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) said cases of impaction and constipation become significantly more common during extreme heat conditions, particularly when animals face shortages of green fodder and dehydration.

According to experts, excessive feeding of dry fodder such as wheat straw during summer months is one of the primary causes of constipation among dairy animals. Calcium deficiency, especially during advanced pregnancy stages, also increases the risk of digestive complications in cattle. Veterinary professionals cautioned that delayed treatment can lead to severe health issues, lower milk production and economic losses for dairy farmers.

Farmers have been advised to closely monitor symptoms including reduced dung passage, dry or mucus-mixed feces, abdominal bloating, dehydration, loss of appetite and sudden decline in milk yield. Experts stated that timely veterinary intervention is critical, with emergency measures including oral administration of mustard or linseed oil and intravenous saline treatment in severe dehydration cases.

The warning comes amid broader concerns over heat stress affecting India’s dairy sector as temperatures in several northern states continue crossing dangerous levels. Studies have shown that every increase in the Temperature Humidity Index (THI) beyond safe limits can significantly reduce milk productivity in dairy animals, particularly among crossbred cattle and buffaloes that are highly sensitive to heat stress. (

Experts also highlighted the importance of year-round green fodder availability, silage usage, mineral supplementation and adequate hydration to protect animal health during extreme summers. Dairy farmers have been encouraged to improve ventilation, cooling and feeding practices as prolonged heatwaves increasingly threaten milk production, cattle welfare and farm profitability across India.

Industry analysts warn that climate change and recurring heatwaves could create long-term challenges for India’s dairy economy. Research indicates that rising temperatures may substantially reduce milk production over the coming decades if adaptive dairy management and climate-resilient livestock practices are not implemented at scale. (The Tribune)

Source: Dairynews7x7 19 May, 2026 Read full story here

#PunjabDairy #HeatStress #DairyIndustry #CattleHealth #MilkProduction #ClimateChange #Dairynews7x7