The relationship between water and food intakes of european and zebu type steers

The ratios of water drunk:hay eaten were studied for groups of Zebu and grade Hereford steers. 2. In all comparable conditions the ratio was significantly smaller for the Zebus. 3. Restricting water availability to about half significantly reduced the ratios for both types of steers. 4. The decrease in hay eaten resulting from restriction of water was less for the Zebus. 5. Restricting the hay intake to approximately half significantly increased the ratios for both groups. 6. The Zebus drank significantly less water than did the grades in relation to body weight. 7. It is concluded that the results of water restriction may not be as disastrous as would have appeared likely from the constant ratio relationship of water and food intakes previously suggested, particularly in the case of the Zebu steers who have been shown to be better adapted to dry conditions.