The importance of water for calf growth
Good quality water is essential for optimal calf rearing. Yet water is the most overlooked factor in calf rearing. How is this at your farm? In this article, Henk tells us more about the value of water for calf growth and how you can apply this at your farm.
Experts agree that, in addition to milk portions, calves should also have free access to water from day 4 onwards. However, various studies in Europe and North America have shown that it takes an average of 14 days or more before a calf is given water for the first time. That is why we are once again sharing the importance of water and tips for teaching calves to drink water.
Encouraging water intake
Firstly, it is important to encourage water intake in your calves. There are two ways to do this:
1. Quality:
Water must be of excellent quality and fresh every day.
2. Quantity:
Sufficient water for healthy growth and to promote rumen development.
Why is water so important?
For rumen development
The development of rumen papillae begins as soon as the microbes in the rumen ferment calf feed. The earlier this development begins, the sooner the rumen can contribute to the calf’s growth (during the milk period). Fresh and clean drinking water for the calf is important here, so that microbes can do their job efficiently.
Improved calf pellet fermentation
Calf milk is directed to the abomasum via the oesophageal groove reflex, but water goes to the rumen. Water therefore contributes to improved calf pellet fermentation, as this takes place in the rumen.
Better calf pellet intake
Calves that can drink water in addition to calf pellets from day 4 onwards have a higher calf pellet intake and grow faster.
Increased calf pellet intake and weight gain
Studies have shown that dry matter intake is directly related to water intake. More than thirty years ago, Kertz et al. demonstrated the benefits of providing (free choice) water to calves during the milk period. The results? Increased (> 30%) calf pellet intake and increased (> 35%) weight gain compared to calves that did not receive water.
This is important because weight gain during the first two months of life (particularly skeletal and muscle growth) is positively correlated with milk production in the first lactation.
How much water and when?
From day 3 to 4
From this point onwards, it is important to give your calves 0.5 – 1 litre of clean, fresh drinking water every day.
Intake depends on the milk schedule
Research shows that calves that receive 4 litres of milk per day can consume 1-3 litres of water per day during the second week after birth. During this period, we also see water intake (>0.5 litres/calf/day) in calves that drink 6 litres of milk daily.
Older calves drink more
Calves aged 5-6 weeks can drink 4-6 litres of water in addition to 6 litres of milk per day. Calves aged 2 months sometimes drink more than 10 litres of water per day!
Hot weather? More water
As soon as the temperature reaches 30°C or higher, water consumption doubles.
Regular cleaning of water troughs
It is important to give your calves sufficient fresh water. That is why most individual pens and igloos are equipped with two rings, namely: water and calf feed. It is important to clean these water troughs regularly. Why? This has a positive effect on daily growth, both during the milk period and after weaning.
Water quality is crucial for young animals
Stricter water quality standards therefore apply to calves than to adult animals. These include:
Mineral content
Water analyses show that the mineral content in water can be quite high. The mineral content in water can also vary considerably, even on the same farm. Calves are more sensitive to elevated mineral concentrations than adult cattle. For example, a concentration of <800 mg/ml Na in water is acceptable for cows, while calves can only tolerate 50 mg/ml. Therefore, beware of elevated mineral levels!
Germ count
An excessively high germ count is detrimental to the health of all animals. And because calves still need to build up their resistance, it is particularly important to provide clean drinking water (including troughs and pipes).
The total amount of dissolved solids present
Calves are also sensitive to elevated concentrations of inorganic salts such as Fe, Mn and S.
Routine water quality testing
Both chemical and microbial analyses are important, and water quality should be checked at least once a year. Laboratories that assess and analyse the water provide explanations of the results. In many cases, it is useful to analyse the interrelationships in the results in order to make statements about suitability for use with calves. It is therefore advisable to request a calf suitability test.
What should a water test comply with?
Water can be assessed on many factors. It is important to discuss in advance what needs to be analysed. The most important factors for calf rearing are:
In short: water is essential for optimal calf rearing
The value of water for calf growth is therefore important to consider. Marijn van Brakel, one of Denkavit’s young stock specialists, previously made a video in which he once again highlights this importance.
Do you have any questions about this article, or would you like one of our specialists to take a look with you and provide practical tips? Feel free to contact us!
Stay updated
Your fresh dose of food for thought
Enter your name and email to receive the latest tips and insights straight to your inbox.
