Beef cattle need regular access to good, clean drinking water in order to experience optimum health.
Studies have shown that when a cow’s water intake is reduced, feed intake will also decrease, and, as a result, animals will gain less weight.
Regional Livestock Specialist Dwayne Summach says a cow’s water requirements will depend on the temperature, animals weight and their stage of production.
"There is no question that cows that are milking with a calf at side are probably going to be looking to consume between 20-30 gallons of water per day."
Monitoring water quality and observing good water management are inexpensive yet effective ways to improve overall animal performance.
Summach also adds, the use of off-site watering systems has allowed for improvements in animal health.
Source : PortageOnline