Historic climate changes have already played a role in the demise or development of agricultural production systems. This review article gives insight into the possible effects of climate change on their production parameters. The results and predictions of global studies and simulations are summarized with special emphasis, where possible, on the southern African scenario. This review deals with these changes and possible adaptations and mitigations. All predictions indicate that livestock production at local, national and regional level may undergo changes in the foreseeable future.