What is a common sign of heat stress in pigs?

In pigs, a common sign of heat stress is increased water consumption. When pigs experience elevated temperatures, their bodies struggle to regulate temperature effectively. To combat the heat, pigs instinctively increase their water intake as a means of promoting cooling through physiological processes such as sweating and respiration. Higher water consumption helps to maintain hydration and can facilitate the cooling of the body through evaporation.

In contrast, during heat stress, pigs often do not exhibit increased feed intake; in fact, they tend to eat less due to discomfort. Excessive salivation may occur in some situations, but it is not a primary indicator of heat stress. Reduced activity is also a symptom of heat stress, as pigs tend to become lethargic in extreme heat; however, the direct increase in water consumption is a more pronounced and consistent response as they seek to mitigate the impacts of heat on their bodies.