Climate change has a notable impact on animals worldwide, including both domestic species and wildlife. A recent scientific study highlights alarming consequences, noting that a 2°C rise in atmospheric temperature compared with preindustrial levels would affect animals globally. Dairy cows and chickens are among the domestic animals most affected by climate change, while wild species such as African elephants, bats, zebrafish, Stony Creek frogs, and koalas are also impacted.
The research, published in a leading science journal, identifies three key conclusions. First, global warming will place heavy strain on resources in poorer countries that rely on livestock and farming to feed their populations. Second, heat stress in dairy cows reduces milk production by about 35%. Third, chickens face serious risks if warming continues because they cannot sweat to regulate their body temperature.
Heat stress reduces milk production by 35% in dairy cows
The issue is urgent because a large portion of the planet depends on chicken meat and dairy products for daily calories and nutrients.
Chicken farming features prominently in many regional diets and economies, making heat-related dips in productivity a critical concern for food security and livelihoods.
Animal welfare is a core aspect of human–animal interaction and plays a central role in rehabilitating both wildlife and domestic animals. Welfare can be assessed using a five-domain framework that covers nutrition, environment, physical health, behavior, and mental states. The study stresses that an animal’s response to environmental change is a vital indicator.
food insecurity
Researchers used this framework to evaluate how stress affects animals and to look for ways to improve their management and wellbeing. While animal responses to stress can vary biologically, the five-domain model provides a robust tool for research and for assessing the immediate effects of climate variability on animals.
Experts note that samples from diverse countries, including aquatic and terrestrial species, offer a comprehensive overview of how climate change affects each area of animal welfare. The authors suggest that future studies apply these welfare fields to assess climate impacts and strengthen protections for animals against devastating outcomes.
“It is possible that low resource zones suffer more because support mechanisms to mitigate heat stress and drought are limited”, notes a lead author from a university program focusing on agriculture and sustainability in a major southern hemisphere institution.
In addition, changing conditions may limit food and water supplies for animals, creating cascading effects on food availability and security.
Current reviews of global data show that heat stress in dairy cows can markedly reduce lactation, immune function, and calf health, with broader implications for milk and meat supply and pricing.
Hotter, worse meat
Chickens exposed to elevated temperatures also show a lower quality of life and a decline in meat quality. Poultry welfare remains a concern when birds cannot regulate their body temperature due to the absence of sweat glands.
The effects on dietary supply can be massive in many regions.
Some researchers emphasize the need for investments in poorer countries to help small farmers improve animal welfare in remote villages. Key priorities include better nutrition and access to suitable living environments and enrichment. Animal welfare is a growing topic for many developing nations, and education and funding are essential to advance it.
Other scientists not involved in the study corroborate the findings. Experts say that extreme heat driven by temperature and humidity can significantly affect animal output, influencing the cost of meat, dairy, and eggs and impacting consumers, small producers, and food safety.
Animal food remains vital for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and young children
Animal-derived foods are crucial for vulnerable groups, and the expected impacts on supply will likely affect food security. Researchers call for more targeted studies on climate change effects on animals, with particular attention to eastern and southern Africa. They also suggest examining related ecological variables such as drought, population growth, and infrastructure development.
Reference note: cited in a recent cabi review publication.
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Note: the environment department is focusing on regional adaptation strategies to support animal welfare in farming communities.