See discussions, stats, and author profiles for this publication at: https://www.researchgate.

net/publication/376757654

IMPORTANCE AND REQUIREMENT OF WATER IN LIVESTOCK

ANIMALS

Chapter · December 2023

CITATION READS

1 2,685

2 authors:

Gaurav Jain James Singh

Uttaranchal University Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences
60 PUBLICATIONS 4 CITATIONS 36 PUBLICATIONS 3 CITATIONS

SEE PROFILE SEE PROFILE

All content following this page was uploaded by Gaurav Jain on 23 December 2023.

The user has requested enhancement of the downloaded file.

Innovations in Agriculture, Environment and Health Research for Ecological Restoration ISBN : 978-81-923535-5-5
Editors : Hemlata Pant, Ambreesh Singh Yadav, Manoj Kumar Singh, Jyoti Verma, Vivek K. Srivastava and Ashish Kumar
Copyright © 2019, Society of Biological Sciences and Rural Development

IMPORTANCE AND REQUIREMENT OF WATER IN LIVESTOCK ANIMALS

Gaurav Jain, Ngangkham James Singh and Aslam

Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying
SHUATS, Prayagraj-211007 , (U.P.), India

Abstract
Water is one of the most basic nutrients for animals and it's necessary for an animal's survival. Because an animal can live
longer without food but he cannot live longer without water. A lot of water required at every stage for their growth. Availability of
drinking water should be all times to the animals. Water is necessary for maintaining proper ion balance and body fluids; absorbing,
digesting, and metabolizing nutrients. Water eliminating waste material and excess heat from the body. Amongst all lactating animals
needs more water because 84 to 87 % of water is also found in milk. Furthermore 2-4 liters of water is required to digest 1 Kg of feed
and lactating animals need 3-5 liter of water to produce one liter of milk. Water may be lost from the body through urine, feces, sweat,
and vapor from the lungs. The body of cattle is lost the amount of water is influenced by the activity of the animal, humidity, respiratory
rate, air temperature, water intake, milk production, feed consumption and other factors.
Introduction
Water is life, the most important macro nutrient for all animals, plants, and plays a fundamental role in farming and
agriculture. Water is a important nutrient needed for whole life and to optimize the milk production, growth rate and reproduction in
livestock. Water accounts for more than 98 percent of all molecules in the body and between 50 and 81 percent of an animal's total body
weight at maturity. Water functions as a medium for processes of digestion (hydrolysis), absorption, metabolism, sweat secretion and
elimination of faces & urine. Water is a medium for transportation of nutrients, waste products, hormones, and other chemical
messengers, and aids in the movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract. Water helps regulate blood osmotic pressure and is a
major component of secretions such as saliva and milk. Body temperature is also regulated through the evaporation of water from the
respiratory tract and the skin's surface. Anyone who sets out to become a farmer must consider the availability of reliable clean water
close by to the area they intend establishing the farm. Water quality is an important parameter, directly or indirectly affecting feed
intake and physiological health status of animals thus influencing on productivity and performance. It is also known that cattle are
sensitive to taste and odour in water, which may limit intake of less palatable water, possibly leading to reduced weight gain. Poor
quality water animal do not accept easily, it result in less water and feed intake and poor feed conversion ratio ultimately decrease
growth and production, poor performance and non specific disease condition (Faries 2007). This publication covers water intake
guidelines and water quality issues for dairy cattle.
Assemblage of Animal Body Species As such or fresh matter basis
Water Protein Fat Ash
Calf (new born) 74 19 3 4.1
Steer (thin) 64 19 12 5.1
Steer (fat) 43 13 41 3.3
Sheep (thin) 74 16 5 4.4
Sheep (fat) 40 11 46 2.8
Pig (8 kg) 73 17 6 3.4
Pig (30 kg) 60 13 24 2.5
Pig (100 kg) 49 12 36 2.6
Hen 56 21 19 3.2
Horse 61 17 17 4.5
Man 59 18 18 4.3
Water content of animal body is variable and decreases as age increases.

310
For example,
Ÿ A cattle embryo contains -- 95% water
Ÿ A new born calf contains -- 75-80% water
Ÿ 5 months old calf contains -- 66-72% water
Ÿ Mature animal contains -- 50-70% water
The distribution of water within the body is not uniform. Blood plasma contains 90-92%, heart, kidney and lungs – 80%;
muscles – 75%, bones – 45% and tooth enamel only 5% water. Water content of animal body also depends on nutritional status of the
animal. Therefore water is very essential component in our body.
Water intake and requirements in livestock animals
Providing enough quality water is essential for good livestock husbandry. Water makes up 80% of the blood, regulates body
temperature and is vital for organ functions such as digestion, waste removal and the absorption of nutrients. The daily water
requirement of livestock varies significantly among animal species. The animal's size and growth stage will have a strong influence on
daily water intake. Consumption rates can be affected by environmental and management factors. Air temperature, relative humidity
and the level of animal exertion or production level are examples of these factors. The quality of the water, which includes temperature,
salinity and impurities affecting taste and odour, will also have an effect. The water content of the animal's diet will influence its
drinking habits. Feed with relatively high moisture content decreases the quantity of drinking water required.
Dairy cattle
Milk is composed of nearly 87% water. An adequate supply of quality water for dairy cattle is extremely important. Farmers
typically provide cows with free access to fresh water at all times. The water requirements of lactating cows are closely related to milk
production, moisture content in the feed and environmental factors such as air temperature and humidity

Table 1 : Water Consumption by Dairy Cattle

Dairy Cattle Type Level of Milk Water Requirement Average Typical

Production (kg Range Water Use
milk/day) (Liter/day) (liter/day)
Dairy calves - 4.9-13.2 9
(1-4 months)
Dairy heifers - 14.4-36.3 25
(5-24 months)
Milking cows 13.6 68-83 115
22.7 87-102 115
36.3 114-136 115
45.5 132-155 115
Dry cows - 34-49 41
Swine
The housing method, growth stage and feeding method used affect the drinking water requirements of pigs. Provides water
requirements for swine based on level of maturity and weight. Other factors that influence swine water requirements include diet,
temperature, housing and feeding methods Water intake increases as protein and salt increase in the diet. Swine fed a high-energy diet
that are deprived of water then are allowed free access to water are at risk of salt poisoning. They should be given access to water
sparingly until fully rehydrated.

Swine Type Weight Water Requirement Average Typical

Range (kg) Range (L/day) Water Use (L/day)
Weaner 7-22 1.0-3.2 2.0
Feeder pig 23-36 3.2-4.5 4.5
36-70 4.5-7.3 4.5
70-110 7.3-10 9
Gestating sow/boar - 13.6-17.2 15
Lactating sow - 18.1-22.7 20

Table 2 : Water Consumption by Swine

311
Sheep
Water requirements for different categories of sheep. Sheep are able to obtain most of their water requirements from forage
consumption. In addition to weight and level of production, water intake also increases in response to increases in environmental
temperature
Table 3 : Water Consumption by Sheep.
Animal Type Weight Water Average Typical
Range (kg) Requirement Water Use
Range (L/day) (L/day)
Feeder lamb 27-50 3.6-5.2 4.4
Gestating meat ewe/ram 80 4.0-6.5 5.25
Lactating meat ewe plus 80+ 9.0-10.5 10
unwanted offspring
Gestating dairy ewe/ram 90 4.4-7.1 5.75
Lactating dairy ewe 90 9.4-11.4 10.4

Horses
Horses typically consume 2-3 kg of water per kilogram of dry feed. They drink more in hot weather and while doing heavy
work. Horse water intake is highly variable. Water intake is a based on body weight, age, diet, exercise intensity and duration, lactation
and temperature. Horses fed a fiber-rich forage-based diet require more water than those fed a more digestible grain diet. Horses that
are hot from exercise should have limited access to water to prevent colic, laminitis and exertional rhabdomyolysis.

Table 4 : Water Consumption by Horses

Frame size Water Average

(weight) Requirement Water Use
Range (L/day) (L/day)
Small (500 lb) 13-20 16.5
Medium (1,000 lb) 26-39 32.5
Large (1,500 lb) 39-59 49

Chickens
The feed requirements of growing poultry are directly related to bird weight. Water requirements are related to feed
consumption and to the air temperature. Once air temperatures exceed 30°C or (87°F), the expected water consumption can increase
by 50% above normal consumption rates. Poultry are unable to sweat as a means of regulating body temperature. Their method of heat
control involves increasing the respiratory rate (panting) to expel surplus heat, which results in the release of large amounts of moisture
from the bird that must be replaced or the bird will become dehydrated.

Table 5 : Water Consumption of Broiler Chickens by Age.

Chicken Broiler Age (weeks) Water Requirement

(L/1,000 birds/day)
21°C 32°C
1-4 50-260 50-415
5-8 345-470 550-770

Table 6 : Water Consumption of Broiler Chickens by Season

Season Average Typical Water Use

(L/1,000 birds/day)
Winter, fall, spring 280
Summer 450
312
 Table 7 : Water Consumption by Chicken Classes Other Than Broilers
Chicken Type Weight Range Water Requirement Average Typical
(kg) Range Water Use
(Liter/1000/day) (Liter/1000/day)
Laying hens 1.6-1.9 180-320 250
Pullets 0.05-1.5 30-180 105
Broiler breeders 3.0-3.5 180-320 250

Factors affecting the water quality

A key consideration in the nutrition of dairy cattle is evaluation of the quality of drinking water. Water quality is an important
issue in the production and health of dairy cattle. Water consumption can be impacted by water quality. Livestock that are provided
low-quality water will have reduced water and feed intake, resulting in reduced production. Dirty water is a host for disease organisms.
Disease can spread rapidly if animals drink from the same water source, so sick animals should be isolated and waterers should be
cleaned frequently.
Water that contains high amounts of total dissolved salts (TDS) can result in reduced performance. Cows will adapt to some
salt in their water. Care must be taken if salt is used to limit intake of a feed in a free choice supplementation management strategy.
Cattle actually prefer water that contains very small amounts of salt. The tolerance to minerals (total salts) in water supplies varies by
animal species, with poultry being most sensitive, hogs moderately sensitive and ruminant animals least sensitive. In general, a total
soluble salt content of less than 1,000 mg/L is considered a low level of salinity suitable for all types of livestock. Research suggests
that water containing a TDS of 5,000 ppm results in about a 10 percent reduction in performance. Guidelines suggest that water
containing 3,000 ppm TDS or less is usually satisfactory for most livestock. Salt levels above 3,000 mg/L are not recommended for
poultry and water that contains 5,000 to 7,000 ppm TDS should not be used for pregnant or lactating females. Avoid levels above 7,000
mg/L for all livestock. Water with salinity at this level may have a laxative effect. Water availability and quality is a major issue during
a drought and heat stress therefore, it is important to check water sources frequently for water availability and quality. Poor quality
water animals do not accept easily, it results in less water and feed intake, and poor feed conversion ratio ultimately decreased growth
and production, poor performance and non- specific disease conditions.

Table 8 : A guide to the use of waters containing nitrates for cattle

Acceptability Nitrate Nitrogen Nitrate Ion Sodium Nitrate
(NO3_N) ppm (NO3) ppm (NaNO3) ppm
Safe Less than 100 Less than 443 Less than 607
Questionable1 100-300 443-1329 607-1821
Unsafe2 Over 300 Over 1329 Over 1821

Nitrates, sulfates, and blue-green algae can affect water quality. A safe level of nitrate nitrogen (NO3N) in the water for cattle
is less than 100 ppm. The sulfate upper limit for calves is less than 500 ppm (167 ppm sulfur as sulfate). For adult cattle, the upper limit
is less than 1,000 ppm (333 ppm sulfur as sulfate). Stagnant water, lakes, and ponds are ideal environments for the growth of blue green
algae, which can be toxic to cattle. When in abundance, blue-green algae gives the water the appearance that someone has dumped a
bucket of light green or turquoise paint in the water. Signs of blue-green algae poisoning are diarrhea, vomiting, lack of coordination,
labored breathing, seizures, convulsions, and possibly death. Other problems that we may find with water are high or low pH, or
excessive levels of sulfates, hydrogen sulfide, iron, and magnesium. Many times these substances in water cause an “off flavor” and
impact water intake.
Water sampling and testing
Typically, 1 or 2 quarts of water from the source in question should be adequate to complete any needed tests. Samples may be
sent to any accredited commercial or state operated laboratory for analyses. Producers should consult with their herd veterinarian or
cooperative extension personnel for assistance in selecting a laboratory as well as for assistance in selecting appropriate tests and
interpreting test result.
Conclusion
Providing clean, fresh water is always a goal for the livestock producer. There are a
number of items that affect water quality. Producers need to adopt management practices that do not negatively impact water quality.
313
Acknowledgement
Authors are thankful to the Dr. Neeraj (HOD) Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying SHUATS. He is a good guidance and
providing necessary facilities related to my research work and also thankful to Dr. Ram Pal Singh Assistance professor Department of
Animal Husbandry and Dairying (SHUATS) with moral support to complete my research work.
References
1. Source: Miranda A. Meehan, Gerald Stokka, and Michelle Mostrom “Livestock water requirement” NDSU Extension
service July 2015.
2. Source: Water Requirements for Beef Cattle, University of Nebraska–Lincoln Beef. July 2015.
3. Source: Adapted from Burton (1965), Water requirements beef cattle in Northern Australia.
4. Source: Rick J. Rasby, Beef Specialist Troy M. Walz, Extension Educator, Water Requirements for Beef Cattle.
5. Source: http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/engineer/facts/07-023.htm.
6. David B. Parker and Michael S. Brown “Water Consumption for Livestock and Poultry Production” encyclopedia of Water
Science DOI: 10.1081/E-EWS 120010303.
7. Rajesh Wakchaure, Subha Ganguly and Praveen Kumar Praveen. “Role of Water in Livestock”
8. Rec. Adv. Acad. Sc. Jour. Volume No. 1, 53-56, 2015.
9. Dan N. Waldner and Michael L Looper, “Water for Dairy Cattle” Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service ANSI-4275,
February 2002.
10. Source: “Water for dairy cattle and buffalo in Pakistan” ILRI Pakistan Factsheet—July 2015.
11. Source: “Water requirements for sheep and cattle” NSW Department of Primary Industries, July 2014.
12. Source: Agriculture and rural development province of KwaZulu-Natal.

314
View publication stats