The loose stools could be caused by many things. One should probably look at the ration first. Sometimes, loose stools can be associated with rations that are too high in protein. Depending on calf weight and gains that you are trying to achieve, rations should be balanced for 12 to 13% crude protein. Again, depending on the gain that you are trying to achieve, the ration should contain some forage. If average daily gain is between 1.5 and 2.0, then much of the ration is forage (maybe up to half). If you are using good quality alfalfa for the forage in the ration and feeding a protein supplement, then you may be overfeeding protein, causing calves to have loose stools. If these calves are grazing pasture, then loose stools are an indication of a high-quality ration. Bromegrass or meadow pastures may cause loose stools. If this is the case, do not be concerned if the calves appear healthy.
Your local Cooperative Extension educator should be able to help you with your ration.
Check the stools closely. If they continue to be watery, begin to check for blood in the stools. Loose stools could be the early stages of coccidiosis. In advanced stages of coccidiosis, blood will appear in the stools. Contact your veterinarian for advice.
