Positioning water supplies close to feed is a practical and strategic decision that promotes optimal nutrition, health, and overall well-being of livestock. It aligns with the natural behaviour of animals and facilitates efficient management practices for farmers.
This article explores some key reasons why farmers routinely place water sources near feeding areas:
Encourages Adequate Water Intake:
Animals need to consume water regularly to maintain proper hydration and support various physiological functions. Placing water sources near feeding areas encourages animals to drink water regularly, as they naturally tend to eat and drink in proximity.
Optimises Feed Conversion:
Adequate water intake is essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. When water is readily available near feed, it helps optimise feed conversion efficiency, ensuring that the nutrients in the feed are effectively utilised by the animals.
Reduces Stress and Competition:
If water sources are located far from feeding areas, animals may experience stress and competition as they navigate to and from these locations. Placing water near feed reduces stress associated with long travel distances and minimises competition for access to water.
Promotes Weight Gain and Growth:
Consistent access to water near feed promotes better weight gain and growth in livestock. Water is crucial for metabolic processes and contributes to the overall development of muscles, bones, and tissues.
Convenience for Livestock and Farmers:
Placing water sources near feeding areas is convenient for both the animals and the farmers. It reduces the time and effort required for animals to access water, and it also facilitates easier monitoring and management of both feed and water supplies.
Minimises Wastage:
When water is positioned near feed, there is less likelihood of wastage. Animals are less likely to spill or contaminate water when they are drinking close to where they eat.
Facilitates Nutrient Supplementation:
Farmers often incorporate supplements or medications into the water supply for livestock. Having water near feed makes it easier to administer such supplements, ensuring that all animals receive the necessary nutrients or medications.
Supports Overall Animal Welfare:
Providing easy access to water near feed contributes to the overall welfare of the animals. It aligns with their natural behaviour, reduces stress, and supports a more comfortable and healthy living environment.
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Rapid Plas Livestock Watering Products
For over 30 years, Rapid Plas have been manufacturing superb quality and durable tanks and accessories for livestock watering. With the advantages of concrete but the added convenience of easy handling, Rapid Plas makes stock watering simple and easy, and tanks and accessories are available as packages or individually.
Rapid Plas water tanks provide the security of knowing stock have access to water for several days even if a pipe cracks or a pump fails. An integrated tank level indicator allows you to quickly check that your livestock have enough water.
Rapid Plas tubs and longline troughs have a fully protected float system and are easy to install. They are supplied pre-plumbed so all you have to do is connect the water source to the water inlet & check the float level.
Rapid Plas Combo’s feature and tank that is fully plumbed with a circular trough. It has large cool water storage and float valves for fresh water for the tough and for on demand refilling via a pipeline water source
High flow rates and large water supply prevents troughs running dry even when under pressure from large mobs of thirsty cattle on hot days.
To learn more about Rapid Plas stock watering products, contact your local Rapid Plas dealer or talk to the expert team at Rapid Plas to find out how we can help you. Call our team on 1800 816 299 or email sales@rapidplas.com.au with your enquiry.
