Stress In Cattle

As part of an animal’s stress response, its body releases cortisol, a hormone that provides energy to help the animal escape the stressor. If the stress persists, however, the animal’s health will suffer.

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Homeostasis is the tendency of a body to maintain a stable internal environment in response to changes in external conditions. On a very hot day, for example, an animal will instinctively seek to maintain stability by keeping in the shade, drinking more water and eating less.

Stress is an external factor that directly affects homeostasis and can have negative results if prolonged. An animal can suffer stress even during ‘normal’ routine handling, making it more susceptible to disease.