Cow's milk consists of fats, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins and water. Moisture takes up more than 80% of the total composition of milk. A cow that is sufficiently watered shows high productivity. How much water a cow drinks per day is calculated based on many factors. If there is a lack of fluid, the pet gets sick. If an animal loses more than 20% of its moisture, it dies. It is necessary to ensure free access to moisture so that the level of milk yield does not decrease.
The role of water in the body of animals
An important element for the normal functioning of any mammal is water. Its composition in the body of any animal is about 60%. Cells, plasma, all tissues contain fluid. The main way liquid enters the cow’s body is through food intake. The skin, muscles and connective tissue accumulate water all day long.
Functions of water for mammals:
- Transportation. Water helps beneficial microelements and substances to be distributed throughout the body.
- Solvent. Liquid helps the body get rid of harmful substances.
- Normalization of the optimal oxygen level and pressure of the animal.
- Body temperature regulator.
When there is a lack of water in mammals, the following are observed:
- weakness;
- cardiopalmus;
- blood viscosity increases;
- body temperature increases;
- appetite decreases;
- metabolism is disrupted;
- the nervous system is excited;
- Milk production decreases.
How much water does a cow need per day?
How much an animal drinks per day must be carefully monitored. To calculate the required amount, the following factors should be taken into account:
- general diet;
- ambient air temperature in the pasture and in the barn;
- moisture level;
- physical condition of the animal;
- lactation phase.
The daily dose is 100-110 liters. The minimum quantity is 70 liters. If a cow eats dry food, then more liquid is needed. The calculation is as follows: 4-6 liters of water per 1 kilogram of dry food. Juicy grass and vegetables reduce the level of consumption, hot weather and the active phase of lactation increase it.
The water must be clean and fresh. 24-hour access to drinking bowls helps the animal independently regulate water metabolism.If possible, the area where animals are pastured should be equipped with automatic drinking bowls. A cow should drink 3-4 times a day. The water in the drinking bowls is changed regularly.
How to train an animal to drink cold water
Cows can drink liquid whose temperature is not lower than 10 degrees. The optimal temperature of drinking water is 15-17 degrees. This saves animal energy. It is used to produce milk, and not to heat cold water. When drinking water that is too cold, cows experience problems with the digestive system and the normal functioning of the stomach is disrupted. They refuse to drink, which harms the body.
Features of watering after calving
After calving, the cow needs plenty of warm water to recuperate and start lactation. The cow needs to be given a drink 30-50 minutes after birth with warm salted water. Salt water is needed only after calving; there is no need to add salt later. The recommended water temperature is at least 25 degrees. To strengthen the body, it is recommended to prepare mash with special additives. Add a kilogram of wheat bran and 100 grams of salt to warm water; you can add oatmeal in a small amount.
Before each milking, the cow must drink. The exception is a swollen and inflamed udder. To relieve inflammation, the udder is massaged, and the animal is milked more often. The first milking is done an hour after calving.
Possible problems and their solutions
Burenka is able to control the amount of liquid she drinks when she is thirsty. To do this, water must be freely available.If a cow begins to refuse water, this is a cause for concern.
Reasons for refusing water
The main reasons for refusing water are as follows:
- inconvenient drinking bowl with poor access;
- drinking too cold;
- the water is not fresh or has an unpleasant odor;
- stomach problems or it is clogged.
If the water is fresh, clean, not cold, normal access to it is provided, and the animal drinks little, then the digestive system is disturbed. If you have other symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian. A healthy cow that does not want to drink has herring lubricated on its lip. Experts recommend adding salt to the food. These methods help induce thirst. If you follow all the recommendations, the cow will regularly produce a lot of milk. And her health will not be a concern.
