Water is critical to all life, but dairy cows have an especially high water requirement. For example, while a beef cow or horse requires 12 – 30 gallons (45-114 L) per head per day, a lactating dairy cow needs between 40-50 gallons (151 – 189 L) per head per day, and in times of heat stress, water intake can double. Free water intake satisfies 80% to 90% of a cow’s total water needs.

The amount of water a cow drinks depends on several factors:

  • Size and Milk Yield- Larger cows and those producing more milk will naturally consume more water.
  • Dry Matter Consumed- The quantity of dry matter in their feed affects water intake.
  • Environmental Factors- Temperature, relative humidity, and water temperature play a role.
  • Quality and Availability- Clean, fresh water is essential.
  • Moisture in Feed- The type of feed and its moisture content matter, and up to 20% of a cows water intake will come from their feed.
  • Heat Stress- As mentioned above, water becomes especially important during periods of heat stress. It helps transfer heat from the body to the environment.
  • Cold Stress- In cold weather, the high heat capacity of body water acts as insulation, conserving body heat.

Equation for Predicting Water Consumption:

The 2001 Nutrient Requirement of Dairy Cattle (NRC) suggests the following equation for predicting water consumption in lactating cows is as follows:

  • (.72kg) 1.58 lbs for each (.45kg) 1 lb change in dry matter consumed.
  • (.41kg) 0.90 lbs for each (.45kg) 1 lb of milk produced.
  • (.050kg) 0.11 lbs for each gram of sodium consumed.
  • (.66kg) 1.47 lbs for each degree Fahrenheit change in the weekly mean minimum temperature.

Cows consume 50% of their water within an hour after milking. Since milking equipment is often cleaned during this time, ensure your troughs have adequate water pressure to keep them filled.

Water Quantity:

Lactating cows typically require (2.04-2.27kg) 4.5–5 lbs. of water per pound of milk produced. For example, a cow producing (45.36kg) 100 lbs of milk daily could consume up to (189.2 L) 50 gallons of water.
On a hot day, a high-producing lactating dairy cow might drink over (150 L) 40 gallons EXTRA water per day.

Water Sources and Placement:

Provide at least one watering device for every 15 to 20 cows, or a minimum of (.61 m) 2 ft of tank space per 20 cows.
Multiple water locations are needed in the loafing area for each group of cows, and troughs should be a minimum of 3” deep with water to allow their muzzle to be submerged.

Trough Choices

We offer both tipping and non-tipping troughs

Tipping Troughs (Tip Troughs/Tip Tanks):

  • Easy Cleaning- These self-tipping troughs simplify cleaning, encouraging more frequent water changes by making this process easier.
  • Alley flushing- Tipping troughs placed in stalls or alleys can also be used for alley flushing

Both tipping and non-tipping are available in sizes from 0.61 – 4.6 m (2 – 15 ft) and offer the following features:

  • Tapered Designs- Helps efficiently flush out debris during cleaning.
  • Controlled Access- A squeeze handle prevents cows from opening the valve accidentally.
  • Versatile Mounting Options- Choose from adjustable legs or wall mounting, depending on your set-up.

Material Choices

Stainless Steel:

  • Strength- Stronger than galvanized steel, with a “self-healing” passive layer that enhances durability.
  • Corrosion Resistance- Excellent in acidic or salty conditions.
  • Ease of Cleaning- Stainless steel is easy to maintain.

Hot Dipped Galvanized Steel

  • Corrosion Resistance- The thick zinc coating provides long-lasting protection, especially in harsh environments.
  • Longevity- Ideal for long-term use in corrosive areas.
  • Sustainability- 100% Recyclable, making it environmentally friendly.
  • Efficiency- the galvanization process is rapid compared to paint application.
  • Budget Friendly- More affordable than stainless steel.

Your choices will depend on your farm’s specific needs, budget, and environmental conditions. If cost is a top priority, hot-dipped galvanized steel may be the choice. For ease of cleaning and superior corrosion protection, stainless steel might be the better choice. Either way, our troughs are corrosion resistant, built well and will serve your farm well for years to come.

If you have questions, we have answers! Reach out to our team for advice on selecting the right troughs for your farm.