In the Furrow
Beef Cattle Needs
By Will Duffie County Extension Coordinator

Livestock require the proper balance of water, carbohydrates for energy, protein, vitamins and minerals for optimal levels of performance. Of these nutrients, water is the most critical for all classes of livestock. Requirement varies greatly whether it is a horse, goat, pig or one of the many other species. In this article I want to specifically dis- cuss beef cattle.

Cattle have little ability to adapt to water restriction, and the feed intake will be greatly reduced following only short periods without water. Therefore, a plentiful supply of good quality water is necessary for profitable beef production.

Many factors influence the amount of water required by cattle. Note that water consumption varies considerably, depending on the temperature and stage of production. These allowances are not absolute requirements and should only be used as a guide in developing water sources, or as a starting point for supplying water to penned cattle.

Water consumption is influenced by other factors, such as moisture and protein level of the feed, salt intake, relative humidity and the breed of cattle. When high moisture feeds such as silage or fresh forages are used, water intake as drinking water is reduced. Because of the need to excrete more urine, high levels of salt or protein in the feed increase water needs. In areas with high humidity, animals require somewhat less water because of lower losses to evaporation. Because of the importance of water to body function and the difficulty in estimating requirements, cattle in all circumstances should have free access to all the quality water they will consume.

The hot summer days in Burke County maximize water needs for cattle. For example, at 95 degrees, nursing cows need 20 gallons per day, bred and dry cows require 15 gallons and bulls need 20 gal/day. Well, how about during the winter? At 50 degrees, nursing cows need 13 gallons per day, bred and dry cows require 7 gallons and bulls need 9 gal/day.

Be sure to monitor watering stations on a regular basis. For more information contact the UGA - Burke County Extension Office at (706) 554-2119.