Optimizing drinking water temperature for water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) during winter: implications for productivity under subtropical climate

Context The temperature of drinking water during winter plays a vital role in the thermoregulation of dairy buffaloes, which also affects the animal’s physiology and production. Aims This study investigated the effects of drinking water temperature on physiological responses, water intake, feed intake, and milk production in lactating buffaloes during the winter season in subtropical India. Methods In total, 24 lactating Murrah buffaloes were randomly assigned to three groups based on the temperature of drinking water (n = 8 in each group), viz. ambient temperature (8–12°C, G1), fresh water temperature (20–24°C, G2) and slightly warm water (32–36°C, G3) during the winter season (January–March 2024). The maximum temperature, minimum temperature and mean relative humidity were 25.70 ± 0.49, 4.89 ± 0.52°C and 76.92 ± 2.79% respectively. Key results The findings showed that offering fresh and warm water to buffaloes (G1 and G2) had a positive effect on the total water intake, dry-matter intake, and milk yield, compared with cold water consumption (G1). Total water intake increased by 15.4–16.2%, and milk yield improved by 5.3–6.9% in the fresh- and warm-water groups. Intake of warm water reduced respiration rates and supported better thermoregulation, which was indicated by a significant increase in rectal temperature. Conclusion Thus, providing warm drinking water helps reduce winter stress, feed efficiency, and productivity in dairy buffaloes under subtropical conditions. Implications The study has highlighted a simple yet effective management strategy to improve animal welfare and productivity during harsh winters.