What is cold stress?

• A. Stress from high temperatures
• B. Stress from low temperatures
• C. Cold exposure risk
• D. Stress from low temperatures

Answer: (D)

Cold stress is the physiological response animals have when they’re exposed to low temperatures that fall below their comfortable, heat-producing range. When it’s cold, the body has to work harder to stay warm, so maintenance energy needs rise due to shivering and other thermogenic processes. If an animal can’t eat enough to meet this higher energy demand, growth slows, feed efficiency drops, and overall performance can decline. Proper management—dry, windproof housing, good bedding, windbreaks, and extra dietary energy during cold spells—helps prevent cold stress. The idea captured here is a stress reaction caused by exposure to low temperatures, rather than high temperatures or a mere risk of cold exposure.