This study investigated the benefit of wetting heat stressed cattle by measuring the body temperature, respiration rate, feed intake and live weight change of cattle.

This study investigated the benefit of wetting heat stressed cattle by measuring the body temperature, respiration rate, feed intake and live weight change of cattle. The study found wetting cattle, using warm salt water reduced rectal temperature, respiration rate and panting score, increased cattle comfort, and did not result in worsening of the micro-climate. The report identified critical thresholds for cattle to reduce their heat load for relative humidity (approximately 60%) and wet bulb temperature (approximately 30oC). The report also details specific symptoms of the clinical heat stress and recommended wetting treatments for cattle during transport.