THI and Survey Data on Climate Change and Dairy Cattle Farming in Coastal Regions of Bangladesh

Climate change is increasingly affecting animal health, especially in coastal Bangladesh. This study focused on the impact of rising temperatures and humidity on dairy farms. Data from 539 farms in seven coastal districts showed higher Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) levels, particularly in Chattogram. Farmers reported an increase in internal and external parasites and diseases like Fasciolosis, Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), and Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD). To combat heat stress, farmers used ceiling fans, ventilators, and water sprinkling. Holstein Friesian and indigenous cattle breeds were mainly used for artificial insemination. The study calls for combining local practices with scientific methods to build a climate-resilient dairy sector in coastal Bangladesh.