3 Good to know about drinkers Water is the most important and cheapest feedstuff. Sufficient supply is essential for the animals’ welfare and health. The following aspects should be observed here: • Water quality • Availability • Temperature • Ingredients Water consumption and installation data for common animals The values and heights mentioned are approximate. Each situation will require adaptation to species and purpose. Water intake is also highly dependent on ambient temperature. Necessary water flow Use drinking bowls with a suitable water flow per minute so that the animals take in sufficient water. Examples: Dairy cow: Cows take in 5-8 L/min on average. Right after milking, a cow can drink up to 20 L/min. Horse: Water intake varies between 3.5 and 7 L/min. If the water flow cannot be increased, select a water bowl with a larger volume. This will still provide sufficient water to the animal. Cow drinking behaviour Consequences of water shortages in dairy cows • Lower milk production • Reduction of rumen activity • Less intake of dry matter • Lower urinary excretion • Higher concentration of urine contents • Increased burden on the circulatory system Type of animal Water consumption Mounting heights Number of animals/drinking station Dairy cow up to 150 L/day (stabling) – 55 - 125 L/day (grazing) 70–100 cm 10 Mother cow 35 - 75 L/day (grazing) 70–100 cm 10 Young cattle 60 - 90 L/day 60–70 cm 15 Calf 17 - 20 L/day 40–60 cm 10 Horses 20 - 60 L/day 110–120 cm 15 Pony 20 - 60 L/day 55–90 cm 15 Sheep 5 - 8 L/day Step + 50 cm 25 Share of daily water consumption per cow Time of day Milking Feeding Milking 0:00 0 % 2 % 4 % 6 % 8 % 10 % 12 % 2:00 4:00 6:00 8:00 10:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00 22:00
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