Journal of Veterinary Medicine and Health
Open Access

Climate Change; Animal Health; Disease Patterns; Livestock; Wildlife

Introduction

As the climate shifts, animals face increased susceptibility to diseases and environmental stress. This study highlights the consequences and potential adaptive measures to protect animal populations [1]. Climate change is emerging as one of the most significant challenges to animal health, influencing both domestic and wild species across the globe [2]. Rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns, extreme weather events, and changes in ecosystems are all having profound effects on the health and well-being of animals. As climate change accelerates, it disrupts habitats, alters the availability of food and water, and influences the spread of diseases, creating new risks for animal populations. For livestock, climate change can lead to heat stress, reduced productivity, and increased vulnerability to infectious diseases. For wildlife, changing environments can force species to migrate [3], potentially exposing them to new pathogens and predators. Furthermore, climate change also affects the abundance and distribution of vectors, such as mosquitoes and ticks, which are responsible for spreading diseases like West Nile virus, Lyme disease, and avian malaria. The interconnectedness of climate, ecology, and animal health underscores the importance of understanding these impacts, as they not only affect animal populations but also have direct consequences for human health, food security [4], and biodiversity. This article explores the diverse ways in which climate change is affecting animal health, with a focus on the challenges it presents to veterinary care, wildlife conservation, and global ecosystems.

Rising prevalence of vector-borne diseases

One of the most concerning impacts of climate change on animal health is the rising prevalence of vector-borne diseases. Climate change, through rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns, has created more favorable conditions for vectors such as mosquitoes [5], ticks, and fleas to thrive in new regions. These vectors, which are responsible for transmitting diseases like Lyme disease, West Nile virus, heartworm, and avian malaria, are expanding their range as warmer temperatures and altered precipitation patterns allow them to survive in areas previously unsuitable for their proliferation [6].

As these vectors spread to new regions, animals that were once free from these diseases are now at risk. Livestock populations, for instance, are increasingly vulnerable to diseases transmitted by ticks, such as babesiosis and anaplasmosis [7], which can have devastating effects on animal health and agricultural productivity. Similarly, companion animals, such as dogs and cats, are seeing an increase in cases of heartworm and tick-borne illnesses due to the expansion of these vectors into previously unaffected areas. The growing prevalence of these diseases poses a significant challenge for veterinary care, as it requires new strategies for prevention, early detection, and management. Addressing the rise in vector-borne diseases necessitates global collaboration, improved surveillance systems, and targeted interventions to mitigate their impact on animal health [8].

Impact of Heat Stress on Livestock Productivity

Heat stress is becoming an increasingly significant issue for livestock as climate change leads to more frequent and intense heatwaves. Livestock, particularly cattle, sheep, and poultry, are highly sensitive to temperature extremes [9], and prolonged exposure to excessive heat can have detrimental effects on their health and productivity. Heat stress can impair the animal’s ability to regulate body temperature, leading to reduced feed intake, lower fertility rates, increased susceptibility to diseases, and decreased weight gain. In dairy cattle, heat stress has been linked to a drop in milk production, as high temperatures reduce lactation efficiency and increase the energy required for cooling, diverting resources away from milk production. Beyond individual health impacts, heat stress can also lead to economic losses for farmers and the broader agricultural industry. Reduced productivity, coupled with the need for additional cooling systems or changes in management practices, can drive up costs. Additionally, heat stress can exacerbate existing health conditions, making animals more vulnerable to infections or metabolic disorders. To mitigate the effects of heat stress, farmers are increasingly turning to strategies such as adjusting feeding schedules, providing access to shade and water, and using climate-controlled housing for livestock. Addressing heat stress is critical for maintaining animal welfare and ensuring the sustainability of livestock farming in the face of a changing climate [10].

Conclusion

Mitigation and adaptation strategies, informed by research, are essential to safeguard animal health in the face of climate change.

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