Modulation of heat stress responses in cattle supplemented with dietary ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids

Summary with Implications Heat stress in beef cattle triggers physiological and metabolic disturbances that compromise performance, health, and welfare. In this study, Red Angus heifers exposed to heat stress for 5 days exhibited elevated body temperatures, increased heart and respiration rates, and altered hematological and acid–base parameters. A commercial ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) dietary supplement failed to improve heat stress-reduced ribeye area or red blood cell parameters but did resolve the reduction in blood chloride concentrations, which is consistent with restoration of electrolyte balance and hydration under heat stressed conditions. These results indicate that ω-3 PUFA supplementation offers some supportive benefits during sustained heat exposure, presumably due to their anti-inflammatory and membrane-stabilizing properties. Supplementing anti-inflammatory nutrients like ω-3 PUFA represents a promising nutritional strategy that could be integrated into broader heat mitigation plans. Planned follow-up studies will assess the effects of long-term supplementation on performance. Implementing such approaches may provide producers with management options for maintaining performance and animal welfare during inevitable environmental heat stress.