However, greater concentrations may be tolerated depending on pig age, presence of other stresses, and the type of sulfate salt in the water. Pig performance may be affected by high-sulfate waters. Fluoride is not an essential nutrient. In low concentrations, it does not affect livestock performance or health. Salinity is a measure of all salts dissolved in the water.
Pigs can adjust to saline water if the adjustment period occurs over several weeks.
Table 2 shows the use of saline waters for pigs. Use of Saline Waters for Pigs. Canadian Water Guidelines-Canadian Council of Resource and Environment Ministers, 1987. Sodium is commonly found in groundwater and by itself, poses little threat to a pig's health. Scouring caused by high-sodium sulfate water can be reduced by small decreases in dietary salt as long as the resulting chloride level meets the pig's dietary requirement.