High-quality drinking water is an essential component for the health and efficient production of pigs, says Eric van Heugten, PhD, a professor in the Animal Science Department at North Carolina State University.
“If there is any doubt concerning the quality of the drinking water, samples need to be collected to analyze the water and verify that it is acceptable for animals, he says in an Extension Fact Sheet. Many factors can affect the quality of water, including microbiological, physical and chemical factors, he notes.
“There are a variety of microorganisms that can be contained in water,” van Heugten reports. “Bacteria using inorganic ferrous iron as an energy source can be particularly problematic because they produce a reddish slime that can block water lines and nipple waterers.”
Pathogenic protozoa (coccidia) and eggs of intestinal worms could also be encountered, he adds, noting that a high level of microbial counts in water can be a sign of contamination from outside sources; for example, surface runoff that enters poorly constructed wells.
“High levels of coliform bacteria are an indication of fecal contamination of the water source,” van Heugten says. “As a guideline, drinking water for animals should contain fewer than 100 total bacteria per milliliter and fewer than 50 coliforms per milliliter. If levels of contamination greatly exceed these guidelines, the source of contamination needs to be eliminated or a new well needs to be constructed. Low levels of contamination can be managed by using disinfectants (shock treatment with Clorox, for example).”
Physical measures are another indication of water quality, he says. They include color, odor, flavor and clarity. He notes that water should be clear and odorless.
“If the water appears cloudy, frothy, colored or has an odd smell or taste, further testing needs to be conducted because a potential problem with quality may exist,” van Heugten says.
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