alfalfa hay

[Callieslamb]

I found a good source of alfalfa hay for my calves. It is not mixed with grass - straight alfalfa hay. Can I feed this to my 1 month old calves? I gave them each a taste this morning and they love it! I am just not sure about it being straight alfalfa. They don't eat much, but I want to be sure before I feed it to them continuously.

[francismilker]

I've fed it before. You might not let them have too much or you'll be dodging highspeed quacamole after a couple of days. Alfalfa is usually pretty high in protein and it loosens them up quite a bit.

[Sarah J]

Anytime you change or add to a diet, make it gradual - don't let them free-feed right away or yes, you'll get scours! On the other hand, I thik alfalfa hay is perfect for little ones - lots of good protein and calcium to help them develop those bones! Once they get older you could back them off to a mixture to avoid other problems, unless they are dairy females

[Callieslamb]

Thanks. They are only getting a handful twice a day right now. They cleaned it right up. I'll just add more every couple of days for them.