How Pigs Keep Cool in the Summer

Summer heat can be tough on everyone—including pigs! Unlike humans, pigs don’t sweat much, which means they rely on other methods to stay cool during hot weather. Whether you’re raising pigs on a small farm or just curious about how these animals handle the heat, here’s a closer look at how pigs keep cool in the summer—and how you can help.

1. Why Heat Is a Concern for Pigs

Pigs are especially vulnerable to heat stress. Unlike many other animals, pigs have very few sweat glands, so they don’t perspire to cool off. This makes it harder for them to regulate their body temperature in hot conditions. Prolonged exposure to heat can lead to dehydration, poor weight gain, and even heat stroke.

2. Natural Cooling Instincts

Pigs are smart and resourceful when it comes to beating the heat. Here are a few natural behaviors you’ll see:

• Wallowing in Mud: One of the most iconic pig behaviors! Mud acts like an all-natural sunscreen and cooling agent. As the water in the mud evaporates, it helps lower their body temperature. Mud also helps protect pigs from sunburn and biting insects.
• Finding Shade: Pigs will naturally seek out shaded areas, whether it’s under trees, shelters, or structures. They know that staying out of direct sunlight helps them stay cool.
• Drinking Water Frequently: Pigs need constant access to clean, fresh water, especially in summer. They’ll drink more to stay hydrated and help regulate their internal temperature.

3. How People Help Pigs Stay Cool

If you’re raising pigs, there are several things you can do to support their natural cooling behaviors:

• Provide Plenty of Shade: Trees, tarps, or built shelters can offer relief from the sun. Make sure the shaded areas are large enough for all pigs in the pen.
• Create a Wallow: If possible, create a mud wallow by adding water to a low, dirt area. This gives pigs a place to roll and cool off.
• Use Misters or Sprinklers: Light misting systems or sprinklers can mimic rain and help pigs cool off. Make sure the water isn’t pooling, creating unsafe or unsanitary conditions.
• Feed During Cooler Hours: Offer feed early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler. Pigs eat better when it’s not sweltering hot.

4. Keep Water Flowing with Trojan Specialty Products Automatic Waterers

Consistent access to fresh water is one of the most important ways to keep pigs cool, and that’s where Trojan Specialty Products comes in. Their line of automatic waterers is designed specifically to meet the hydration needs of livestock, especially pigs, in all seasons, especially during the summer heat.

Here’s how these waterers help:

• Continuous Fresh Water Supply: Automatic waterers deliver water on demand, so pigs always have access to a clean, cool drink, without you needing to refill buckets multiple times a day.
• Durable, Weather-Resistant Design: Built from heavy-duty materials, Trojan waterers stand up to the rigors of outdoor pens and harsh summer sun.
• Nipple or Bowl Options: Whether your pigs prefer to drink from a cast aluminum or cast iron bowl or a trigger-style nipple, Trojan offers options to suit your setup and pig preferences.
• Easy to Clean and Maintain: Summer heat can encourage algae and bacterial growth in standing water. Trojan waterers are easy to flush and clean, helping you maintain high water quality.
• Efficient for All Ages and Group Sizes: Whether you’re raising a few pigs or managing a larger herd, Trojan’s waterers can scale with your operation to make hydration hassle-free.

Using an automatic watering system not only supports your pigs’ health and cooling needs but also frees up your time for other tasks around the farm.