By CESAR JOLITO III

The extreme heat being experienced in Negros Occidental is beginning to impact livestock and poultry production, the Provincial Veterinarian Office (PVO) said.

PVO head Dr. Placeda Lemana said prolonged high temperatures have caused “stunted growth” among farm animals and reduced egg production among layer chickens in several areas of the province.

Lemana explained that animals tend to consume more water than food during hot weather, affecting their nutrient intake and overall growth.

“When animals drink more water instead of eating, the nutrients absorbed by their bodies are no longer enough to meet their requirements,” she explained.

Despite the intense heat, the PVO has not recorded any alarming livestock deaths so far.

However, Lemana urged livestock raisers and poultry farmers to ensure that animal shelters and pens remain properly ventilated to help prevent pneumonia and other heat-related illnesses among chickens, hogs and other farm animals.

She also advised farmers to maintain a constant water supply for their animals to avoid dehydration amid rising temperatures.

Aside from adequate hydration, Lemana said farmers may also provide molasses or sugar-based supplements to help animals cope with heat stress.

The PVO added that district offices are currently distributing electrolytes to assist farmers in protecting their livestock during the ongoing hot weather conditions./CJ, WDJ