Summer is one of the most demanding times of year for livestock, and feeding plays a key role in maintaining their welfare and productivity. We explain how to adapt rations, which mistakes to avoid and why organic feed can make a difference during the hottest months.
At Bifeedoo, we know that summer is not just another season in the farming calendar. It is a critical period in which high temperatures, heat stress and reduced appetite can directly affect animal welfare and the stability of production.
For this reason, adapting feeding during these months is not an option, but a necessity. And this is where the use of organic feed takes on a particularly relevant role.
What happens to animals in summer?
When temperatures rise, animals naturally reduce their food intake. This happens because their bodies try to reduce the production of internal heat derived from digestion. The problem is that this lower intake can lead to nutritional deficits, loss of body condition and drops in production.
In addition, heat stress affects metabolism, the digestive system and the animal’s general behaviour. In ruminants, for example, it can alter rumen activity, generating imbalances that directly impact health and performance. This is where proper feeding makes the difference.
Practical keys to improving feeding in summer
Over the years, we have found that applying small adjustments can have a very significant impact. These are some of the most effective recommendations:
1. Opt for high digestibility.
In summer, every mouthful counts. That is why it is essential to use feed that is easily digested and provides high nutritional value. Organic feed, made with natural, high-quality raw materials, facilitates this digestion and improves nutrient absorption, even in adverse conditions.
2. Adjust feeding times.
A simple but very effective strategy is to offer feed during the coolest hours of the day. Early in the morning or at dusk, animals show a greater willingness to eat, which helps maintain a more stable intake.
3. Ensure proper hydration.
Water is as important as feed. In summer, water consumption increases considerably, so it is essential to ensure constant access to clean and fresh water. Proper hydration helps regulate body temperature and supports digestion.
4. Maintain the balance of the digestive system.
Diets rich in quality fibres help stabilise the digestive system, especially in ruminants. This helps maintain ruminal activity, reduce the risk of acidosis and improve the animal’s overall welfare.
5. Avoid sudden changes in feeding.
During periods of heat stress, any sudden change can aggravate digestive problems. For this reason, we recommend introducing any modification progressively and in a controlled way.
Why is organic feed an advantage in summer?
In our experience, the use of organic feed offers clear advantages during the warmer months. On the one hand, its composition based on natural raw materials free from chemical residues promotes better digestion. This is key when animals eat less but need to make the most of every ration.
On the other hand, organic formulations usually include high-quality fibres that help maintain the balance of the digestive system. This translates into more stable animals, with a better appetite and a lower risk of metabolic disorders.
In addition, we have observed that more balanced feeding helps maintain regularity in production, whether in milk, meat or other productive parameters. In a context such as summer, where fluctuations are common, this represents an important competitive advantage.
Beyond summer and a commitment to sustainability
The use of organic feed does not only have an impact on short-term performance. It is also part of a broader vision of livestock farming.
Working with certified raw materials, free from pesticides and synthetic fertilisers, makes it possible to reduce the environmental impact of the activity. At the same time, it improves traceability and responds to a growing demand for more sustainable products that are more respectful of animal welfare.
In our way of understanding the sector, these aspects are no longer optional, but part of the present and future of livestock farming.
Our commitment at Bifeedoo
At Bifeedoo, we have been developing feeding solutions adapted to each species and each time of year for years. We know that there are no universal formulas, and that is why we work with a personalised approach, taking into account the real needs of each farm.
Our objective is clear: to help improve performance without compromising animal welfare or the environment. If you are looking for a more efficient, balanced and sustainable way to face the summer months, organic feed is an option worth considering.
To receive personalised advice or learn about our solutions, you can contact our team. We will be delighted to analyse each case and propose the best alternative according to the specific needs of each farm.