The Impact of Climate Change on Animal Health

In this final section we will reveal the major impacts climate change has on animal production, affecting nutrition, access to water and animal health.

Climate change influences livestock production by affecting the conditions governing animal production and health. Extreme weather events and higher average temperatures cause stress in the animal. The interchange of heat between the animal and its environment influences animal performance, (e.g. growth, milk and reproduction) as well as animal health and welfare.

Changes in climatic patterns and in seasonal conditions may affect disease behavior in terms of spread pattern, diffusion range, amplification and persistence in novel habitats. The emergence of novel diseases, present major challenges for the future of animal agriculture at the global level.

Changes in management, technologies and infrastructure may be necessary to ensure animal production is resilient to climate change effects. The appropriate means of adaption will be dependent on the location, sector and production system. A proactive approach is key to the management of climate risks.

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