Heat Stress Effects on Water Metabolism of Goats in Harsh Environments

Abstract

Goats play a predominant role in the economies of millions of people, and they have been a source of meat, milk, skin, wool, and fiber since ages. Goats undergo various kinds of stressors under many different conditions, i.e., physical, nutritional, chemical, and physiological and heat stress (HS). Among all, thermal stress is the most concerning nowadays in the ever-changing climatic scenario, which supposes a serious long-term challenge faced by small ruminant owners worldwide. HS results in decreased growth, reproduction, production, and milk quantity and quality. Thus, HS results in economic losses, emphasizing the necessity to objectively assess animal welfare. The hot climate is a serious threat to agriculture business, including goat production. The ability of sheep and goats to cope with HS without affecting their welfare and productive performance has been often overrated. To date, little attention has been paid to comprehensive detailed data on the adverse effect of HS on small ruminants. Among domestic ruminants, goats are renowned for their ability to tolerate water and energy restriction. However, some basic questions regarding their ability to endure water restriction under HS are still open. Therefore, a definition of heat stress and its effects on water metabolism on goats will be the scope of this chapter.