The Effect of Sprinkling on the Respiration Rate, Body Temperature, Grazing Performance and Milk Production of Dairy Cattle

Two groups of 16 lactating cows (8 Holsteins and 8 Jerseys) each were used in a double-reversal experiment to study the effect of cooling by sprinkling on respiration rates, body temperatures and grazing performances. Although both breeds used the shower more as the temperature increased, the Holsteins remained under the shower an average of about 9 per cent more than did the Jerseys. The average amount of time spent under the shower for both breeds was 2 and 3 times as great at a temperature range of 85° to 90° F. and 92° to 97° F., respectively, as at a temperature range of 80° to 85° F. Respiration rates were slightly higher for Jerseys than for Holsteins, while the reverse was noted for body temperatures. The respiration rates of Holsteins and Jerseys having access to the shower were 18 and 13 percent lower, respectively, than for those with only shade.