German pig farms adopt heat‑stress mitigation measures

German pig producers are implementing heat‑stress management strategies as outdoor temperatures reach 25 °C, a threshold at which pigs experience increased breathing rates and risk of circulatory problems. The heat can cause diarrhoea in piglets, reduced growth, delayed estrus in sows, embryo loss, and lower semen quality in boars, as well as decreased milk yield and lighter weaning weights in farrowing units.

To protect animal welfare and maintain productivity, farms are adopting a combination of building design, technical solutions and organisational practices. Measures include providing ample cool water for pigs to play in, improving ventilation, installing shading or cooling systems, and adjusting feeding schedules. These steps also align with the German Animal Welfare Ordinance (TierSchNutztV) and serve the economic interests of producers by preventing losses associated with heat‑related health issues.