What is the optimal temperature range for dairy cattle comfort?

What is the optimal temperature range for dairy cattle comfort?

• A. 50-70°F
• B. 60-75°F
• C. 70-85°F
• D. 80-90°F

Answer: (C)

The optimal temperature range for dairy cattle comfort is often considered to be between 60-75°F. This range allows for the animals to maintain their metabolic efficiency and ensure high milk production while minimizing stress levels. Cattle are particularly sensitive to temperature, and their comfort impacts not only their health and well-being but also their productivity. In cooler temperatures, they tend to utilize energy to stay warm rather than for milk production. Conversely, temperatures above this optimal range can lead to heat stress, affecting their feed intake and overall performance. At temperatures around or above 75°F (but below 85°F, for instance), dairy cattle might start to experience discomfort, especially if humidity is also high, which can further exacerbate the effects of heat stress. Thus, while option C suggests a range that starts at 70°F and extends to 85°F, the core comfort range for optimal dairy production lies more securely within the 60-75°F threshold, making it more conducive to productive and healthy dairy farming practices.

The optimal temperature range for dairy cattle comfort is often considered to be between 60-75°F. This range allows for the animals to maintain their metabolic efficiency and ensure high milk production while minimizing stress levels.

Cattle are particularly sensitive to temperature, and their comfort impacts not only their health and well-being but also their productivity. In cooler temperatures, they tend to utilize energy to stay warm rather than for milk production. Conversely, temperatures above this optimal range can lead to heat stress, affecting their feed intake and overall performance.

At temperatures around or above 75°F (but below 85°F, for instance), dairy cattle might start to experience discomfort, especially if humidity is also high, which can further exacerbate the effects of heat stress.

Thus, while option C suggests a range that starts at 70°F and extends to 85°F, the core comfort range for optimal dairy production lies more securely within the 60-75°F threshold, making it more conducive to productive and healthy dairy farming practices.