Water consumption is an early indicator of health status and productive performance, yet it is often monitored superficially. A 10% decrease in water intake can lead to a 5–7% reduction in feed consumption, with a direct impact on growth rates and milk production. In dairy cattle, each liter of milk produced requires between 3 and 5 liters of water, depending on diet composition and ambient temperature.

In pig and poultry farms, sudden variations in water consumption are often the first signs of emerging health or microclimate issues. Water quality, flow rate at drinkers, and water temperature all influence daily intake.

Farms that monitor water consumption daily by group and age category are able to identify deviations more quickly and intervene before losses become economically visible. In 2025, water is becoming a strategic parameter in livestock farm management.

(Photo: Freepik)