Efeito das mudanças climáticas no bem-estar e produção de bovinos de corte: tendências e perspectivas

Abstract

Climate change has a significant impact on beef cattle farming, affecting animal welfare, health, and productivity. Rising temperatures, altered rainfall patterns, and the occurrence of extreme weather events intensify heat stress, especially in Brazil predominant extensive farming systems. This stress compromises the cattle's ability to regulate their body temperature, which leads to reduced food intake and negatively affects immunity, fertility, and meat quality. Consequently, these factors result in substantial economic losses. In this context, this literature review aims to consolidate existing knowledge, explore emerging trends, and offer perspectives for developing practical and sustainable solutions. These solutions include selecting adapted breeds, implementing nutritional strategies, improving environmental management, and using digital technologies like precision livestock farming and infrared thermography. Moreover, sustainable practices, such as crop-livestock-forestry integration (ILPF) and the use of adapted genetics, increase the sector's resilience and meet the growing demand from consumers for traceable, sustainable, and animal-welfare-friendly food products.