During winter, much of the conversation around cow management focuses on helping cattle maintain body condition through cold temperatures. Supplementation and feeding strategies are always top of mind, but one often overlooked component of winter management is water. How much water do cows really need during cold weather?
As temperatures decrease, cows’ energy requirements increase. This added energy is typically supplied through dry feeds such as hay, byproduct cubes, or commodity blends. Adequate water intake is essential for cows to properly digest these feeds. When water is limited, feed intake often declines, making it difficult for cows to maintain body weight and condition.
Stage of production also plays a significant role in determining water needs. As production demands increase, so does water intake. Lactating cows, for example, require more water than pregnant, non-lactating cows. Water intake data collected by Oklahoma State University and other research institutions provide baseline estimates across production stages. These guidelines are useful for producers hauling water or planning new water infrastructure.
So, how much water do cows need in cold weather? OSU factsheet AFS-3299, Estimating Water Requirements for Mature Beef Cows, reports that 1,300-pound cows experiencing 40°F temperatures typically require 9 to 15 gallons of water per day. The lower end of this range applies to open or pregnant, dry cows, while the higher end reflects the needs of lactating cows.
Additional research is currently underway by Dr. Dave Lalman and his research team to further refine these estimates. In a recent study, five-year-old cows averaging 1,363 pounds with calves at side have consumed an average of 15 gallons per day since mid-November. This total includes calf consumption; however, it is reasonable to assume calves account for 1 to 2 gallons daily.
This highlights the importance of ensuring calves have access to water. Tanks should be filled high enough for smaller animals to reach the water, and natural water sources should be kept open so calves can safely drink.
Water is often considered a “hot weather” concern, but its importance should not be overlooked during winter. Dehydration adds stress during cold conditions. Ensuring cows have adequate access to water is a simple yet critical step in helping them manage winter stress and maintain body condition.
Paul Beck, OSU Extension livestock specialist, shares advice on managing cattle during extreme cold weather on SunUpTV from Feb 22, 2021 at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQaRL7wtuhs
