Utilization of air-cooled ventilation to reduce heat stress in Nuami sheep in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Tropical and temperate countries experience significant economic losses in summer due to heat stress. It is possible to mitigate thermal stress through advances in environmental management, for instance, better accommodations, improved cooling systems, and improved feeding strategies. We examined the influence of ventilation on Nuami ewes in hot climates to determine their physiological efficiency and thermoregulation. Ten dry, non-cycling Nuami sheep were allocated to two treatments (n=5): The control (C) group was kept at ambient temperature, while the treatment (AC) group was kept at air-cooled temperature. Respiratory rate, rectal temperature, and infrared images of representative body regions were recorded weekly. There was a significant difference in climatic conditions between the two rooms. In comparison to the C group, AC sheep gained weight. Dry matter intake (kg/day) increased, water consumption (l/day) decreased, WI/DMI ratios fell, and respiratory rates fell 1.5 times in AC sheep compared to C sheep. AC group showed lower rectal, rump, and leg temperatures than the C group. Regardless of climate variations, the temperatures of the eyes and belly stayed pretty constant due to their physiological, anatomical, and coat characteristics. Therefore, cooled-air ventilation is the best method to reduce heat stress in livestock in the summer.