Summer Heat Stress in Cattle, Horses, and Backyard Chickens: Feeding and Care Tips

Horse drinking from water trough to prevent Summer Heat StressJuly in North Texas means one thing for sure: heat, and lots of it. When those triple-digit days roll in, your animals feel it just like you do. The good news? A few simple steps can keep your cattle, horses, and backyard flock cool, comfortable, and healthy all summer long.

Here at Berend Bros., we’ve helped local ranchers and families beat the heat for years. Here’s what we recommend:

Beef Cattle

  • Keep clean, cool water flowing at all times, and check troughs often.
  • Add electrolytes to help replace what they lose in the heat.
  • Make sure they have plenty of shade to escape the midday sun.

Horses

  • Feed during the cooler hours, like early morning and evening.
  • Offer free-choice water and quality horse feed to keep energy up.
  • Watch for sweating changes, a sign your horse may be struggling.

Backyard Chickens

  • Set out extra waterers around the coop and run.
  • Toss in cool treats and electrolyte supplements on the hottest days.
  • Provide shade and good airflow to keep your flock from overheating.

A little planning goes a long way when temperatures climb. Stop by any of our stores in Windthorst, Wichita Falls, Bowie, or Olney. We’ve got the feed, electrolytes, and supplies you need to keep your animals happy and healthy all summer. Come see us, we’re glad to help!