The rumen health of cows is essential for effective milk production. Preventing rumen acidosis is, therefore, a top priority. As a dairy farmer, few things are as stressful as declining milk production and sick cows. Alongside feed, a reliable and high-quality water supply is a critical factor in maintaining a healthy rumen.

What is Rumen Acidosis?

Rumen acidosis occurs when the balance in a cow's rumen is disrupted [1]. Also known as rumen acidification, it affects the rumen flora responsible for digesting fiber-rich food. This process generates nutrients such as fatty acids and proteins. When acids accumulate, the rumen's pH level drops. A further decline in pH slows digestion, disrupting normal feeding patterns. Symptoms include reduced rumen activity, less chewing, changes in resting posture, and irregular feed intake.

Accessible and Clean Drinking Water for Cows

To prevent rumen acidosis and maintain optimal milk production, ensuring a healthy rumen is vital. A high-quality water supply plays a key role in this process, as water supports proper mixing and passage of feed in the rumen [2]. Cows must consume as much water as possible in a short time before returning to their cubicles to ruminate. Accessible water sources are therefore crucial. Biofilm buildup in pipes can hinder water availability and affect the smell and taste, discouraging cows from drinking adequately.

Milk is composed of 87% water, making water quality paramount. Regular checks of water troughs are recommended [3]. Contaminants in the water can harm cow health, further impacting rumen functionality.

Clean Drinking Water Through Water Disinfection

To protect cow health and maintain a healthy rumen, it is essential to keep drinking water free from bacteria. Conventional disinfectants often contain harmful chemicals and may pose safety risks to humans and animals [4]. While effective, these chemicals have drawbacks, including handling risks. Following safety instructions when using them is critical.

Watter: Sustainable Disinfection with HOCl

Watter offers a sustainable alternative to disinfect cow drinking water safely and effectively. The Watter system produces a disinfectant on-site (in-situ), known as Watter Disinfection Solution (WDS). This biodegradable solution is made using water and salt, with electrolysis producing a disinfectant with HOCl as the active ingredient. Proven effective and safe for humans, animals, and the environment, this solution ensures high water quality for your dairy farm.

References:

1. https://www.melkveebedrijf.nl/pensverzuring/
2. https://www.melkveebedrijf.nl/diergezondheid/pensverzuring/pensverzuring-voorkomen-zorg-goed-voor-de-kamermeisjes
3. https://www.melkveebedrijf.nl/veevoer-melkvee/drinkwater-melkvee/vergeet-niet-het-water-op-stal/
4. https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/binaries/rijksoverheid/documenten/rapporten/2023/10/18/verkenning-risicofactoren-biocidegebruik/Verkenning+risicofactoren.pdf