Adequate water access is fundamental to cattle welfare in feedlot systems. Water deprivation or restricted access causes rapid physiological stress and suffering, and water quality problems compound welfare impacts significantly.
Water restriction is one of the most acutely stressful experiences for cattle. Even partial restriction through competition at troughs disadvantages subordinate animals and causes dehydration-related suffering. In hot conditions, adequate water access is critical for heat regulation, and failures in water supply during heatwaves can cause mass mortality. Water management is a basic welfare requirement that should be monitored as part of all feedlot welfare assessment protocols.