Does high iron- or high sulfur-containing water harm pigs?
High iron will clog filters, screens, etc., of water lines. Water with high sulfur content has resulted in increased water consumption but has not been shown to affect pig performance. Extremely high iron and sulfate concentrations have, however, been suspected of causing diarrhea in young pigs. Q. What other compounds in water are potentially harmful to pigs? Nitrates are often present in ground and surface water. Nitrates can be converted to nitrites, which are harmful. The conversion to nitrite is necessary for toxicity to occur. Nitrites at levels less than 100 ppm are generally safe, but higher levels convert hemoglobin to methemoglobin. Methemoglobin does not carry an adequate amount of oxygen to the tissues and can result in animal death if an excess level is in the blood. Q. What is the desired water flow rate in the different pig production phases? In general, water must be accessible and be available in an ample quantity.
