The sun is shining, the grass is growing, the temperature is rising, and summer is in the air. However, for calves, the summer sun can quickly become too much. Heat stress is a real risk, and it's something you want to avoid for your calf’s well-being and your own peace of mind.
What is heat stress?
When calves can’t release their body heat, they overheat, this leads to the following consequences?
• Loss of appetite
• Sluggish behaviour
• Faster breathing
• Dehydration
• Reduced growth and resistance against disease
So make sure you recognize these signs in time!
Staying cool? It all starts with proper calf housing
At CalfOTel, we’ve done the research: well-designed housing can make a big difference on hot days. Here are our proven tips:
Opaque materials – Transparent ones cause a greenhouse effect
Light colours reflect heat – White and light tones keep housing cooler
Spacious and tall – Improves air circulation and calf comfort
Keep it clean – Dirt and algae increase heat absorption
Ensure proper ventilation – Fresh air actively helps reduce heat
Insulation is a bonus – But not essential; smart design with white, opaque, and ventilated materials often does the job
What you can do as a farmer
Location & layout
• Place housing with the back to the sun
• Use natural or artificial shade (trees, covers)
• Space out hutches to improve airflow
Daily care
• Refresh drinking water regularly
• Feed early or late in the day
• Clean feeding and drinking equipment
• Keep hutches white and clean
• Use light-coloured paving (e.g., concrete over asphalt)
Extra tips
• Postpone stressful procedures to cooler times
• Use fly repellents
• Use cool bedding like wood shavings or sand
• Refresh bedding early in the day
Keep your calves cool this summer
With smart housing and daily care, you can prevent heat stress - keeping your calves healthy and comfortable.
Happy Calf, Happy Farmer
Curious about our innovative solutions and research?
Click here for more information
CalfOTel is a brand of VDK Products.
VDK Products BV
