SPRING SUMMER BONUS MAGAZINE 2026

In addition to the quality of the water, temperature, and ad libitum availability, the way in which water is offered to the calf also plays a role in the intake. It is recommended to offer water to the young calves, at height, in a shallow bucket instead of a deep bucket. Offering water from a teat is not recommended to stimulate proper functioning of the esophageal groove reflex in order for the water to end up in the rumen and milk in the abomasum. It is best to offer water to older calves from a water bowl with a drinking nipple (Figure 3). Offering water in a water bowl with water supply often has negative consequences for water quality. What is the definition of clean drinking water: Clean drinking water (often referred to as potable water) is water that is safe enough for human consumption and food preparation without causing illness. It is free from harmful chemical pollutants, toxins, and pathogenic microorganisms, and meets specific, regulated health and aesthetic quality standards. The micro-analysis of clean drinking water should be as follows: Escherichia coli ( E. coli ) = 0 CFU per 100 ml. Total Coliforms = 0 CFU per 100 ml. Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC) = <500 to 1 000 CFU per ml. If drinking water gives off a small odour, has a colour or leaves a slimy layer in the container, the water is not clean and not acceptable for drinking purposes. Peroxsil® sanitises water for drinking purposes, but moreover, it kills and removes biofilm that has formed in pipelines at a dose that is safe for humans and animals to consume. If there is no ad libitum water available, the solid feed intake will be limited resulting in suboptimal rumen development and growth. Water is therefore of great importance for solid feed intake and fermentation, rumen development, and ultimately the growth of the calf. Water quality Not only the amount of water is important, but also the quality of the water offered as drinking water and water for mixing milk replacer. Figure 2 provides an overview of the values that good drinking water for calves must meet. If you have any doubts about the water quality, it is recommended that you have the water quality checked in addition to the annual check. Stimulating water intake in young calves It is extremely important to offer calves fresh water ad libitum from the colostrum period. This way, the calf can regulate its own water intake. Reduced quality of water will prevent proper absorption. The water temperature also plays a role in absorption. Calves absorb more water when it is offered lukewarm (16°C–18°C) compared to cold (6°C–8°C). In practice, the drinking water temperature will quickly adapt to the environment temperature. Figure 3: Different types of water bowls for calves. It is recommended to choose a shallow water bowl with a drinking nipple. Water containers with a float often have a negative effect on water quality. Figure 2: Drink water quality limits for calves. Source: GD. Gezondheidsdienst voor Dieren, the Netherlands, Diergezondheid, Management, Drinkwater, Referen- tiewaarden veedrinkwaterkwaliteit. DISTRIBUTED BY Retief Nel National Sales Manager Agriculture rnel@ladismithcheese.co.za +27 83 470 7370 +27 28 551 1620 www.agribonus.co.za Spring/Summer 2026 BONUS 117