Sasha Needs Advice

[Katherine]

Lorraine, mommie of the late baby Georgia, now has a new approximately 5 mo. old grey female, named Sasha. Her niece, a vet ass't, found Sasha when she was 4-6 wks. old. Both hind legs were broken. She has raised her, but can no longer keep her, & as of yesterday, now lives w/Lorraine. Sasha's legs healed in such a way that she cannot climb more than 2 or 3 ft. without falling. As a result, she cannot be released. She was given esbilac until 4 mos. old. Since then, niece was feeding her mostly nuts with veggies only 3 times/wk. She has large cage with cube & can get around outside of cage, but with difficulty. She is a very friendly squirrel & has learned to compensate fairly well with motor impairment. Niece was also out most of the time, so Sasha did not get much affection or attention. Lorraine is the perfect new mommie. As she devoted herself to Georgia, she is doing the same w/Sasha. They have already bonded. Sasha comes up on sofa with Lorraine who gives her love & affection.
L does not have a computer, so I will be the intermediary, as I was with Georgia.. L has already added kale, broccoli & cauliflower to Sasha's bowl. Before being turned over, niece's vet did fecal test & all is ok. Initital questions are what diet should be followed, at this point, that might help build up injured bones. Would it be good to put her back on formula, use ultra boost ? Are there any supplements that would help?
Lorraine & I would greatly appreciate advice. Sasha has a forever home & we would like to make this sweet little baby, as healthy as possible. Thank you.

[island rehabber]

If Sasha will take formula -- either syringe or in a shallow bowl -- it certainly won't hurt her and will give her the nutrients she needs plus extra calcium. Try to get Lorraine to limit the nuts and increase the veggies, especially the leafy greens. It may be far too late in little Sasha's life to introduce rodent block -- many have gone that road before with older babies, and failed miserably :hidechair -- but she could give it a try. A drop or two of Vetri-DMG couldn't hurt, either.

[Katherine]

If Sasha will take formula -- either syringe or in a shallow bowl -- it certainly won't hurt her and will give her the nutrients she needs plus extra calcium. Try to get Lorraine to limit the nuts and increase the veggies, especially the leafy greens. It may be far too late in little Sasha's life to introduce rodent block -- many have gone that road before with older babies, and failed miserably :hidechair -- but she could give it a try. A drop or two of Vetri-DMG couldn't hurt, either.
Thanks IR. Can L use 32/40. She has a lot of it from Georgia. Should she try 12cc 3/day/ would ultra boost serve any purpose.

[island rehabber]

I'm not sure if a squirrel her age would take as much as that, but even 12cc once a day would be a nice supplement. Don't use the Boost unless Sasha is underweight or her coat is poor....it's pretty rich for an older squirrel. Just my .02 :D

[Katherine]

I'm not sure if a squirrel her age would take as much as that, but even 12cc once a day would be a nice supplement. Don't use the Boost unless Sasha is underweight or her coat is poor....it's pretty rich for an older squirrel. Just my .02 :D
Thanks IR. Lorraine is going to see if she takes it in syringe, now. Sasha can't be weighed on scale bec. she can't stay steady but she looks good weight & her fur looks fine. L has filled bowl with diff veggies that sasha has eaten in the past & just 2 pecans. Sasha has 1 stuffie that she brings onto couch with her. L has her in different area than where Georgia was. Since cage is large, she thought this room better. Sasha is able to pull herself up onto anything that's fabric. She lets L cuddle her. sasha never got affection from niece.

[Katherine]

Sasha took about 6cc of 32/40 from syringe. L will try later. Is she prone to develop any other disorders bec. of legs? What should we look out for?

[Katherine]

Sasha's cage is a high vertical one which Loraine's niece has had her in. Her reasoing was that getting her to climb up & down, ie to get into cube, would give her more exercise to avoid paralyis setting in. In observing Sasha, it would seem easier for her to have a lower cage. She has become very adjusted to boosting herself up with her front legs. This has been how L has observed her this morning, in & out of cage. She has been exploring the room (with L there, of course) & does it like a gymnast reaching up to the parallel bars with arms. So,wouldn't it make things easier for her to have a wide, lower cage. We are just trying to figure out the best habitat for her. Also, even tho niece is vet ass't, is she correct in saying that paralysis will set in in her hind legs. If so, does it make any difference in that Sasha can't use them anyway?

[CritterMom]

I would be concerned that she might fall, since she has two less feet hanging on that a normal squirrel would. So yes, I would think that a longer cage would be safer.

Does L have anyone around who is handy? If you Google Critter Nation cages, they have tall cages that have 3 or 4 levels in them, each with a hole and a little ramp to the next level. The squirrel can do a lot of exploring and moving around, and can travel to the top of the cage, but never has to worry about falling far. Someone who can build could perhaps make that kind of a modification in the tall cage.

I would pad everything with fleece, particularly the bottom. Dragging can cause sores.

[Katherine]

I would be concerned that she might fall, since she has two less feet hanging on that a normal squirrel would. So yes, I would think that a longer cage would be safer.

Does L have anyone around who is handy? If you Google Critter Nation cages, they have tall cages that have 3 or 4 levels in them, each with a hole and a little ramp to the next level. The squirrel can do a lot of exploring and moving around, and can travel to the top of the cage, but never has to worry about falling far. Someone who can build could perhaps make that kind of a modification in the tall cage.

I would pad everything with fleece, particularly the bottom. Dragging can cause sores.

Thanks. Great suggestion. Yes, L's nephew is very handy. Will also pad with fleece. Another question was going to be that Sasha has scrapes & sores on her hind-legs which L can see, as she moves, is from dragging around Is there anything like an ointment that can be
used to avoid infection in them ? Also. Sasha had the remaining 6cc of formula. Ate a little veggies. Any thoughts on the safety of the cube. It looks like when she goes in & out, there's a tendency to get 1 or both hind legs caught abit. Is it best to remove, even tho she is used to sleeping in it.?

[virgo062]

I don't know if this would help but I give Knothead tums with calcium to chew on and he loves them. He also has a Critter Nation cage that works great because he falls a lot too and I have plenty of fleece in the bottom for a safe landing :). Lots to explore and the steps are easily navigated for him

[CritterMom]

You can buy a triple antibiotic (like Neosporin) that is made for optical use that is good for this and is milder than the regular stuff. Any drug store should have it.

You are going to need to get to a fabric store, because crawling areas are going to need to be padded for this baby. I would hunt for some of that crazy soft microfiber fleece - it has no roughness to it at all. Managing that - the sores - is going to be her biggest challenge.

[Katherine]

I don't know if this would help but I give Knothead tums with calcium to chew on and he loves them. He also has a Critter Nation cage that works great because he falls a lot too and I have plenty of fleece in the bottom for a safe landing :). Lots to explore and the steps are easily navigated for him
Thank you. If Sasha won't chew on Tums, is there calcium in any liguid form. L has Tums & will tell her to try. One of my concerns is the lack of calcium. Niece never gave Sasha any, in any form. To me, that's dangerous. Do you agree?

[Katherine]

virgo062: Thank you so much. Sasha ate a Tums from L's hand. Must have thought it a treat. How many tums should we give/day?

virgo062 & Crittermom: have googled Critter nation Cages & spoke w/nephew. He googled too. That cage would be great & he can make current cage like it. He's very handy. Thanks to both of you for your thoughts.

To all: any thoughts on helping Sasha with sores on hind legs from dragging. All are scabs now, but we're afraid they will re-open. Is there ointment or something that would help heal. Thanks to all for thoughts.

[Katherine]

Crittermom: Thanks for advice. L doesn't have neosporin. Can't get out bec of snowstorm. Is bacitracin too strong? That she has. The room Sasha is in is carpteted. Meanwhile, she's looking on line for fabric store to order soft material ie microfleece from. No place in her town would have it.

Sasha chewed 2 more Tums yesterday. How much of these should she be having. Or is there other calcium supplement that could be used?

L has her bowl filled w/ veggies & Sasha eats well.

She again caught foot getting out of cube. I've seen pics of hammocks. Would this be easier or harder wfor her to manage.

Thanks to all for advice?

[virgo062]

Good morning Katherine:wave123 sounds like Sasha is on the right path...I only give Knothead 1 tums a week....sometimes two if he is really grouchy. Glad to hear Sasha is eating her veggies. Bless her heart sounds like her life from here on out will be spectacular. I only used neosporin on knothead so I can't comment on the bacitran sorry...Knothead had a sleepy sak that he slept in as a baby boy and loved it he could not maneuver any kind of hammock because of his unsteadiness. I also shred paper for him which comforts his falls I put piles of it where he normally lands. I would for sure find another sleeper for the little darling if her foot is getting caught...Look at Amazon.com for the biddie buddies ferret bed that's what Knotty has now. Good luck and keep us posted

[CritterMom]

Crittermom: Thanks for advice. L doesn't have neosporin. Can't get out bec of snowstorm. Is bacitracin too strong? That she has. The room Sasha is in is carpteted. Meanwhile, she's looking on line for fabric store to order soft material ie microfleece from. No place in her town would have it.

Sasha chewed 2 more Tums yesterday. How much of these should she be having. Or is there other calcium supplement that could be used?

L has her bowl filled w/ veggies & Sasha eats well.

She again caught foot getting out of cube. I've seen pics of hammocks. Would this be easier or harder wfor her to manage.

Thanks to all for advice?

Bacitracin is actually one of the three antibiotics in triple antibiotic ointment. It combats gram positive bacteria; the others gram negative, so Neosporin is broad spectrum and Bacitracin is not. So yes, she can use it but there is a whole class of bacteria that it will have no effect on. These aren't infected, are they?

[Katherine]

Thanks virgo062 & Crittermom:
L has removed the cube from the cage bec Sasha cannot get in & out w/o getting caught. She had been given a plain bed for baby Georgia before she died, but never used it. That's in there, now. I will check out the bed you mentioned on Amazon. I guess, in thinking about it, a hammock would not be good since it probably moves too much. So, if ferret bed is diff from one L just put in cage, I will order. Thanks.

L will go ahead & use bacitracin til she can get out (storm is bad) & get neosporin. These sores are not infected right now. They are scabs, but the possibility of opening them is there. This morning, Sasha has been exploring her room with mommie there, of course, & is able to jump on sofa with some difficulty, so L put tiny hassock in front. Sasha is quick to learn & uses it. Sofa is where mommie sits & they have bonded. L has given her fleece blanket & she brought it up with her. So sasha spent about 1/2 hr on lap. This is so good for her, bec niece was out most of the time (L is retired) & Sasha had little contact or affection,. Now she is being kissed & cuddled & responding well.

While sitting on her lap, L noticed baby's hind legs tend to twitch a little. She called niece who said that she's always done that. Is this just a result of how her broken legs healed or sign of anything else.

We thank you so much for your help in getting Sasha settled in her forever home.

[virgo062]

Hi Katherine hopefully someone will be here soon to answer the question about the twitching. I am so glad little Sasha is getting the cuddling and loving she so desperately needs:D

[muffinsquirrel]

Katherine, with my paralized NRs, I made them 'trees' our of the long foam tubes that kids play with in the pool - I think they are called 'funnoodles' or something like that. I covered them in fleece, and the squirrels could climb without scraping themselves on anything. Also, the Humane Society has a program for rehabbers where they send them fur coats that have been donated by people than no longer wear furs. I cover the floor of the cage in fur, and also make them a nest out of fur. (Sometimes you get really lucky and they send you a fur hat or two. They are perfect for nests!) I can send a coat or two if ya'll want to try it.

Best of luck to her, and to both of ya'll.

muffinsquirrel

[grinn75]

You might want to try some thing like the snuggle hut. It can be hung from the top of the cage or because it's flat on the bottom it can be set on a shelf. It doesn't have an edge or a lip at the opening for her to trip over. Plus they are made of fleece and easily washable.

102136

[Katherine]

Katherine, with my paralized NRs, I made them 'trees' our of the long foam tubes that kids play with in the pool - I think they are called 'funnoodles' or something like that. I covered them in fleece, and the squirrels could climb without scraping themselves on anything. Also, the Humane Society has a program for rehabbers where they send them fur coats that have been donated by people than no longer wear furs. I cover the floor of the cage in fur, and also make them a nest out of fur. (Sometimes you get really lucky and they send you a fur hat or two. They are perfect for nests!) I can send a coat or two if ya'll want to try it.

Best of luck to her, and to both of ya'll.

muffinsquirrel
Thanks for the advice. Foam tubes I can get & L has plenty of fleece. She has already covered bottom of cage with it. Lorraine's family is talking about buying a whole new cage for Sasha. One like I've seen on website of Critter Nation Cages, rec by Crittermom. That would be great. Thanks again for advice.

[Katherine]

You might want to try some thing like the snuggle hut. It can be hung from the top of the cage or because it's flat on the bottom it can be set on a shelf. It doesn't have an edge or a lip at the opening for her to trip over. Plus they are made of fleece and easily washable.

102136
:thankyou This is perfect . Any idea where I can get one?

[grinn75]

:thankyou This is perfect . Any idea where I can get one?

Petsmart has happy huts which are similar but I'm not sure if they have the large or x-large size you might need to fit a squirrel. I would think any pet store would have them but they are cheaper on Amazon and drsfostersmith.com. :tilt

[CritterMom]

Katherine, go through the ferret stuff on Drsfostersmith - they have a TON of stuff that squirrels love, for a MUCH more reasonable price than you can get locally.

[CritterMom]

Oops, that happy hut will be in the bird section. But do check out the ferret stuff - you will lose your mind, I am sure!

[Katherine]

grinn75 & Crittermom: I ordered "happy hut", as it is called at drsfostersmith.com in large. It is just too cute. Sasha will love this. The ferret section is amazing..:)
Lorraine's family has decided to buy a brand new cage for Sasha, rather than have nephew re-do old one. I looked at Critter Nation Cages. They have a "duplex" which would seem good for the baby. If you folks get a chance to go to their site, could you tell me what you would select for Sasha. Her family wants her to have new cage for new life.
BTW, Baby & mommie are bonded. Mommie gets up from sofa, Sasha gets up from sofa. Lorraine has given her 3 new stuffies..:Love_Icon

Thanks again for all help with this.

[Katherine]

Just found at drsfostersmith.com a ferret cage which would seem great for Sasha. It is 2 levels with add-on level (3 level) and with exterior ramp. lorraine's nephew looked at it to & thought it would be good. Ramp could be covered with fleece to make trip up softer.

Any thoughts?

BTW: Sasha is asleep now holding 2 new stuffies from mommie..:Love_Icon

[grinn75]

Just found at drsfostersmith.com a ferret cage which would seem great for Sasha. It is 2 levels with add-on level (3 level) and with exterior ramp. lorraine's nephew looked at it to & thought it would be good. Ramp could be covered with fleece to make trip up softer.

Any thoughts?

BTW: Sasha is asleep now holding 2 new stuffies from mommie..:Love_Icon

Is it this one? 102168

or this one?102170

You might want to go with the second one, the critter nation cage. It has smaller bar spacing and the bars are horizontal making climbing easier if she chooses to haul herself up on the sides. Either one is very nice and me and Bean are jealous.:D

[Chickenlegs]

Kibbles has a Critter Nation cage and It's good--cept the hard plastic liner is IN the cage. MMMMMMMMM-GOOD! as far as Kibbs is concerned. There are two shelves and two levels if you want to install the tray that separates the levels (I didn't cause Kibbles doesn't have any difficulties getting around). There are also two ramps that could be padded with fleece. My ladder is wired on to a shelf so a scabbling squirrel won't knock a ladder lose and get hurt. You can adapt it for a little squirrel that has some mobility problems and the narrowly spaced bars are good for climbing AND it's sturdy. Weighs a lot but wheels make it movable. I'd be glad to send a pix of Kibbs cage (it's somewhere on The Board) so you can see how it's set up for her. Sasha would need less "fall" space and more padding but so far Kibbs CN is working out just fine. I'm so glad for Lorraine AND sweet little Sasha.

[Katherine]

Is it this one? 102168

or this one?102170

You might want to go with the second one, the critter nation cage. It has smaller bar spacing and the bars are horizontal making climbing easier if she chooses to haul herself up on the sides. Either one is very nice and me and Bean are jealous.:D

Thanks so much for posting pics. I am totally computer-stupid & don't know how to do that. The top one was what we were thinking of bec it is larger (3 levels) & has ramp for Sasha to climb into cage.
Your ideas about the 2nd one with smaller bar spacing & horizontal are very valid. I will convey this to L's nephew. He is the one who will be ordering. As mentioned, family is chipping in on this to give Sasha a new home in her new life..:thankyou

Just wanted to add, that I also, would go with the 2nd, the critter nation. You are quite right that horizontal bars, raher than vertical would be a lot easier.

[Katherine]

Kibbles has a Critter Nation cage and It's good--cept the hard plastic liner is IN the cage. MMMMMMMMM-GOOD! as far as Kibbs is concerned. There are two shelves and two levels if you want to install the tray that separates the levels (I didn't cause Kibbles doesn't have any difficulties getting around). There are also two ramps that could be padded with fleece. My ladder is wired on to a shelf so a scabbling squirrel won't knock a ladder lose and get hurt. You can adapt it for a little squirrel that has some mobility problems and the narrowly spaced bars are good for climbing AND it's sturdy. Weighs a lot but wheels make it movable. I'd be glad to send a pix of Kibbs cage (it's somewhere on The Board) so you can see how it's set up for her. Sasha would need less "fall" space and more padding but so far Kibbs CN is working out just fine. I'm so glad for Lorraine AND sweet little Sasha.
Thanks for posting. This sounds quite adaptable for Sasha, Yes, I would appreciate it if you could send me a picture. The idea of less "fall" space & more padding is great. Also, a pic helps us with ideas on how to accomodate Sasha's disability.
Much appreciated.

[Katherine]

Sasha's hind legs tremble when she's resting. L's niece said they always have, since legs were broken. Does this sound right to anyone?

[Chickenlegs]

If a picture is worth a thousand words, this is gonna be a looooong thread.

http://i405.photobucket.com/albums/pp137/gimpyoneleg/Feb11--Kibbscondo.jpg

this is the cage as it stands against the wall. Kibbles housekeeping skills could be better so if you keep a tidy house, better avert your eyes now. As you can see it's all one big cage with a bunch of stuff for Her Majesty''s entertainment.

http://i405.photobucket.com/albums/pp137/gimpyoneleg/Feb11--goodcageinteriorshowingshelf.jpg

you can see the shelf (there are two) that comes with the cage. Kibbles sleeping box sits up there (she's done some customizing) and I've wired on a log for her chewing pleasure. I keep the shelf covered in flannel as my girl is not as fastidious in her pottying habbits as some squirrlies. You might rather have fleece. Either way it has to be fastened some how or other (I use clothespins) and if you use flannel, watch out for strings that could get caught around a squirrel's neck or leg. The shelf is pretty darned sturdy--the heavy wire frame is covered with some sort of plastic. The wire protects the plastic from marauding squirrel chompers. You can also see that Kibbs has a full size saucer. If you install two levels it could sit on the second level. I have a fleece hammock under Kibbs to keep it from swinging. Kibbs uses hers for a storage room and occasional camp out spot. Bet Sasha would like one (I'll make it and send it to ya if you want) Uuuuuum--Kibbs has branches and Sasha might like some strategically placed to take her needs into consideration. Don't know how well you can see it, but I've wired one of the ladders onto the shelf (just can't have too much to climb on).

http://i405.photobucket.com/albums/pp137/gimpyoneleg/Feb11-panfor2ndlevel.jpg

this is the plastic catch tray for the second level. It has a cutout. I think you can see where the top and bottom levels join. The same heavy wire used in the rest of the cage is under the second level

http://i405.photobucket.com/albums/pp137/gimpyoneleg/Feb11-bottomofcage.jpg

This is what the catch tray under the bottom level of Kibbs condo looks like. I keep it covered with newspaper and an old towel that doesn't have a very thick nap to catch toenails on. Fleece would be best but Kibbs is a slob and fleece holds onto everything.

I hope this helps. So far the cage has done it's job--kept Kibbs in and the rest of the house safe when we aren't here to supervise. It has four full size doors so the entire cage is accessible for cleaning. They are HEAVY. If Kibbs is out I ALWAYS put some fabric or SOMETHING at the hinge of the heavy open door so it (they) won't swing closed suddenly and maybe catch a little leg. Kibbles launches from the tops of the doors and they swing hard. Sasha won't be doing that but for anybody else with a CN cage. Be careful. One of those doors slamming on a squirrel would do real damage.

Sure hope this helps! I assembled Kibbs condo myself so it sure ain't rocket science. Hardest part was hauling the box in the door. It weighs 117 pounds. For all that weight, it rolls easily and the wheels lock down.

[Katherine]

Chickenlegs: Thank you for pics & explanations. This looks like it would definitely fit Sasha's needs. If I go to Critter Nation Cages, where would I find this. Pls. keep in mind that I am the intermediary with L's family. Nephew would go to site, also cause he would be ordering. I believe this would best serve Sasha's needs & the way you have set it up guides us. Thanks so much.
Can you find me an affordable condo..:crazy

[Katherine]

Sasha gets physical therapy.
IR has advised me (thank you) that Sasha's hind legs tremble because they are weak. So, Lorraine has to do 2 exercises. The 1st is to hold up Sasha's front legs & let her try to walk a bit on hind legs. The 2nd is to hold up her hind legs & let her walk with front paws. The idea, of course, is to build strength. L tried this on the floor with the baby this afternoon. Sasha let out a little cry when her front paws were held up & she tried to move on her hind legs which were broken when she was found at 4-6 wks. L stopped & then did the 2nd exercise which was not as painful. The good part is that Sasha lets mommie do this . Maybe she thinks they are playing. L will continue doing a little each day & hopefully in time, the tremors will lessen or stop because that has to be painful.
This afternoon , Sasha fell asleep on mommie's lap, holding on to a new stuffie. I am so glad that Sasha has a wonderful new life filled with a mommie who loves her deeply. I am equally glad that Lorraine, who will never get over the death of baby Georgia, has a new baby in her life to whom she is totally devoted. This is a great match..:Love_Icon

[Chickenlegs]

Wuddencha know I had the link till just recently. I Googled Midwest Critter Nation cages (I think). Darned things are EXPENSIVE but the shipping was free and with it weighing so much, free shipping was a big deal. It got here in 5 days or there-bouts and it took me maybe an hour and a half or two hours to set it up. It would have gone faster but I didn't have help. I'm so glad Sasha has a wonderful new life, a new Mommie who will spoil her rotten, and a new Auntie who will help.

as to the people condo--as soon as I find one, I'll give ya a holler. Don't think Critter Nation makes one for us.

[Chickenlegs]

Here's a link for one supplier

http://www.petstreetmall.com/Critter-Nation-Rabbit-Cage/8515/3399/details.html

and shipping is FREE!

[Katherine]

Here's a link for one supplier

http://www.petstreetmall.com/Critter-Nation-Rabbit-Cage/8515/3399/details.html

and shipping is FREE!

:thankyou Lorraine's nephew is ordering Sasha's new home. He will put it together when it arrives. Everyone agrees that it will definitely accommodate Sasha's needs. The young lady will be living in luxury & the little sweetie deserves it.:Love_Icon

[Katherine]

Lorraine now has neosporin. One of Sasha's scabs on her hind leg opened a bit. L put some on it to avoid infection. Is there anything else she should do?
Thanks.

[Chickenlegs]

:thankyou Lorraine's nephew is ordering Sasha's new home. He will put it together when it arrives. Everyone agrees that it will definitely accommodate Sasha's needs. The young lady will be living in luxury & the little sweetie deserves it.:Love_Icon

Kiss her little head for me--in fact--kiss it twice since Miss Kibbs won't let me near her--she has a pecan and is VERY protective. Humph! Girl has a short memory. Her Mommie was the one who gave it to her! Can't wait to see pictures of that baby.

[Katherine]

grinn75/Crittermom:The happy hut (snuggle hut) arrived. Sasha slept in it last night. She loves it & it is perfect for her. She doesn't get her feet caught anymore. Thank you both..:)

Chickenlegs: We are all anxiously awaiting Sasha's new cage. I wish I lived in such luxury. Thank you..:)


To all. As mentioned in prior post, A scab has opened on Sasha's leg. Lorraine has put neosporin on it. We are afraid that it may be infected, since she drags the leg. How can we tell infection? Would any kind of covering help?
Thanks.

[island rehabber]

K. I just responded to your PM -- :D

[Katherine]

K. I just responded to your PM -- :D
:thankyou Have advised Lorraine.

[Katherine]

:thankyou Have advised Lorraine.

IR. Just wanted to follow-up. Lorraine is flushing wound. there is no swelling or pus. When I took Tiny to the vet, He gave me the cream you suggested. I've Fed-ex it to Lorraine, along with a prescription he wrote, so she'll be able to get more..:thankyou

[island rehabber]

Katherine I can't stand the way you sit around on your hands when work needs to be done :poke:shakehead

:jumpanyway Silvadene is excellent primarily for burned or irritated skin, to prevent infection. It is the ointment of choice in burn wards everywhere. I find that it's great for abcesses, and in all the years I've used it on squirrels I'm sure somebody has swallowed some but never had a problem. Neosporin, on the other hand, can be toxic if ingested. :thumbsup

[CritterMom]

Ah, yes, silvadene - didn't know you had any.

That was why I suggested the optical version of neosporin - according to my vet, anyway, it isn't as bad as regular neo re: toxicity.

Sasha needs to get onto soft, SMOOTH fabric. Katherine, have you seen those lap throws that are made out of a long nap microfiber? It is the softest, slickest fabric I have ever seen, no friction at all. If someone has a sewing machine, I would make covers for everything out of it - you could take them off and toss them in the washer when dirty. It is the only thing I can think of (other than getting one of muffin's mink coats!) that will be NO friction for her.

[Katherine]

Ah, yes, silvadene - didn't know you had any.

That was why I suggested the optical version of neosporin - according to my vet, anyway, it isn't as bad as regular neo re: toxicity.

Sasha needs to get onto soft, SMOOTH fabric. Katherine, have you seen those lap throws that are made out of a long nap microfiber? It is the softest, slickest fabric I have ever seen, no friction at all. If someone has a sewing machine, I would make covers for everything out of it - you could take them off and toss them in the washer when dirty. It is the only thing I can think of (other than getting one of muffin's mink coats!) that will be NO friction for her.

Thanks Crittermom: Lorraine has bought a couple of fleece lap throws that neighbor has sewn together. Right now, they completely cover the area in Sasha's room. Meanwhile, she found a fabric company from which she ordered micr-fleece. That should arrive by next Wed or Thu, about the same time her new cage will come. Right now L put fleece on bottom of current cage. Sasha also loves her new happy hut. She goes in & out without getting feet caught. When she sits with mommie on sofa, that too has a fleece cover. She ends up on mommie's lap on her fleece blankie with new stuffie. Lorraine also sleeps on the sofabed in the room so that Sasha is not alone..:Love_Icon

[muffinsquirrel]

The offer for fur coats is still open. The Humane Society calls it 'giving back to the wild' so that animals will not have died just for human vanity, but will be used to give comfort to rescued wildlife. Just drop me a PM if anyone is interested.

Not every squirrel gets to pee and poop on mink!!!:D :D :D

muffinsquirrel

[Katherine]

The offer for fur coats is still open. The Humane Society calls it 'giving back to the wild' so that animals will not have died just for human vanity, but will be used to give comfort to rescued wildlife. Just drop me a PM if anyone is interested.

Not every squirrel gets to pee and poop on mink!!!:D :D :D

muffinsquirrel

Thanks, muffinsquirrel. Will tell Lorraine about your generous offer. Right now, she's keeping fleece companies in business. She & Sasha have formed such a wonderful bond, it's great to see that a baby squirrel who had such a bad start in life has so many people helping her...:thankyou

[CritterMom]

The offer for fur coats is still open. The Humane Society calls it 'giving back to the wild' so that animals will not have died just for human vanity, but will be used to give comfort to rescued wildlife. Just drop me a PM if anyone is interested.

Not every squirrel gets to pee and poop on mink!!!:D :D :D

muffinsquirrel


I have to tell you, I LOVE THIS. How do you clean it, though? It is an awsome idea for a partially paralyzed animal, because the drag sores ARE an issue, and nothing is slicker than fur.

[muffinsquirrel]

I have to tell you, I LOVE THIS. How do you clean it, though? It is an awsome idea for a partially paralyzed animal, because the drag sores ARE an issue, and nothing is slicker than fur.

I clean them as long as I can with a brush and cornmeal and/or baking soda. If they get too bad, I will shampoo them. When they are past all help, I throw them out and start over. (The furs, not the squirrels. :D :D :D )

Go to the Humane Society web site and ask them about the program that gives donated furs to rehabbers to use for wildlife. Seems like every time you turn around, they send you another box of fur coats! So you don't have to worry too much about cleaning them.

muffinsquirrel

[Katherine]

I clean them as long as I can with a brush and cornmeal and/or baking soda. If they get too bad, I will shampoo them. When they are past all help, I throw them out and start over. (The furs, not the squirrels. :D :D :D )

Go to the Humane Society web site and ask them about the program that gives donated furs to rehabbers to use for wildlife. Seems like every time you turn around, they send you another box of fur coats! So you don't have to worry too much about cleaning them.

muffinsquirrel

Thank you, muffinsquirrel. Sasha is going to have a great Valentine's Day. She knows she is now loved by so many great people..:Love_Icon

[Katherine]

Sasha was, of course, showered with gifts for Valentine's Day. Mommie bought her 3 new stuffies (that makes 8). Lorraine let her choose & she picked, what else? a heart. She carried it up onto the sofa & then to mommie;s lap.
Sasha's scab is being treated & she does not pick at it which is good. Mommie continues physical therapy, as rec. by IR for the tremors in her hind legs. Lorraine only does a little at a time since Sasha cannot take too much. Hopefully, this will help strengthen her legs.
Both have the best possible Valentine's gift: each other..:Love_Icon

[Katherine]

Sasha continues with silvadene. She's not picking at the opened opened scab but Lorraine believes it is starting to look yellowish. She's afraid of infection. Do we add on any other treatment or stick solely with silvadene.?

[island rehabber]

GENTLY press on either side of the wound and see if anything oozes. If not, it may just be drying/healing.

[Katherine]

GENTLY press on either side of the wound and see if anything oozes. If not, it may just be drying/healing.

Am speaking to L. A very minute amount of slightly yellowish liquid (not thick) came out.

[Katherine]

IR. The vet who treats Tiny is a reptile vet & I realize he is supposed to have general knowledge but when I've asked him questions re: squirrels, I don't have all that much confidence. That's why i always like to know what your advice is. You are the expert.
He said that as long as the yellow substance is liquid & not pus, he would continue w/silvadene. If Sasha worsens, he would advise using oral baytril. He gave me a bunch in syringes, just as I've used for my little ones. Lorraine used syringes for the late baby Georgia. I Fed-exd them to her so she'll have them if Sasha gets worse.

[Katherine]

Need Help. The fluid coming out of Sasha's scab is still liguid, not pus. It is however, more yellow. I believe oral baytril should be started. Lorraine is putting silvadene on it, but I think it's time to start AB.
Anyone agree or disagree?

[island rehabber]

So long as Sasha is healthy otherwise, it couldn't hurt to start the Baytril....and the good thing is you already have it. PM me if you need help with dosage; best thing is to get a weight on Sasha. :)

[Katherine]

So long as Sasha is healthy otherwise, it couldn't hurt to start the Baytril....and the good thing is you already have it. PM me if you need help with dosage; best thing is to get a weight on Sasha. :)

Sasha began getting oral baytril. .05cc twice daily. Lorraine put it with 32/40. Sasha takes about 6cc of formula 2xday. She has been taking it with no problem. I think the formula covers the bad taste of baytril.

[island rehabber]

:thumbsup:thumbsup:thumbsup

[Katherine]

Sasha definitely has pus coming out of scab. Baytril just started yesterday. Should we increase dosage?

[island rehabber]

You can increase to .07 2x a day. That's top of the recommended range for her weight. :thumbsup

[Katherine]

You can increase to .07 2x a day. That's top of the recommended range for her weight. :thumbsup
:thankyou :thankyou

[Katherine]

You can increase to .07 2x a day. That's top of the recommended range for her weight. :thumbsup
Lorrraine is continuing to adminster baytril as directed. There has been no worsening of the wound. It looks like AB is now in Sasha's system.

[island rehabber]

good news. Remember it has to drain when it's an abcess....wrapping it or blocking it up makes it worse. :)

[Katherine]

good news. Remember it has to drain when it's an abcess....wrapping it or blocking it up makes it worse. :)
IR::thankyou

[Katherine]

Sasha remains on .07 2xday. The pus has reduced to a liquid state, but is still yellowish. How long should baytril continue at same dose?

[island rehabber]

For abcesses my vet always says 7-10 days on the Baytril. If the pus is thinning out, that's good news.

[Katherine]

For abcesses my vet always says 7-10 days on the Baytril. If the pus is thinning out, that's good news.

:thankyou :thankyou

[Katherine]

Lorraine has told me that Sasha has clear liquid forming in both eyes. She wipes them off. It's a small amount & just started this morning. What might cause this? Thanks.

[island rehabber]

Make sure L. uses all UNscented "free & clear" products to wash Sasha's bedding, etc. and that she doesn't have scented candles or those plug-in things around her. Animals can be very allergic to those (so can some of us people :shakehead). Hopefully it is not a cold or respiratory infection; the Baytril should take care of anything like that, but tell L to listen to Sasha's breathing to be sure she isn't wheezing or rasping.

[Katherine]

Make sure L. uses all UNscented "free & clear" products to wash Sasha's bedding, etc. and that she doesn't have scented candles or those plug-in things around her. Animals can be very allergic to those (so can some of us people :shakehead). Hopefully it is not a cold or respiratory infection; the Baytril should take care of anything like that, but tell L to listen to Sasha's breathing to be sure she isn't wheezing or rasping.
Thanks IR. Sasha's breathing is clear. Yesterday, a friend brought L flowers for her birthday. They are in a different room, but she will throw them out. Perhaps, the scent is causing Sasha's problem.

[island rehabber]

Thanks IR. Sasha's breathing is clear. Yesterday, a friend brought L flowers for her birthday. They are in a different room, but she will throw them out. Perhaps, the scent is causing Sasha's problem.

awwww...I'd hate to think it was L's birthday flowers and she'd have to toss them :(
Unless they are something REALLY pungent like gladiolae or gardenia......:dono

[Katherine]

awwww...I'd hate to think it was L's birthday flowers and she'd have to toss them :(
Unless they are something REALLY pungent like gladiolae or gardenia......:dono

L feels it's best to toss them bec. no other new scent has been added, no change in dtergent, etc. She doesn't want to take a chance with baby Sasha.

[Katherine]

Sasha is sneezing. His eyes cleared up. No more liquid coming out. He's still on .07 baytril 2xday. What can we do? Thanks.

[island rehabber]

hi Katherine. Is he sneezing frequently? Or just a "pfffft!" once in awhile? Was there any incident of accidentally inhaling formula recently?

[Katherine]

hi Katherine. Is he sneezing frequently? Or just a "pfffft!" once in awhile? Was there any incident of accidentally inhaling formula recently?
IR. L says not a deep sneeze. No inhaling of formula. He's alert, eyes clear. no wheezing. "pfffft" is best description.

[island rehabber]

IR. L says not a deep sneeze. No inhaling of formula. He's alert, eyes clear. no wheezing. "pfffft" is best description.

Then I wouldn't be concerned. Squirrels sniff everything, and then do this little "pfft!" sound. They even do it in their sleep sometimes.

[Katherine]

Then I wouldn't be concerned. Squirrels sniff everything, and then do this little "pfft!" sound. They even do it in their sleep sometimes.
:thankyou :thankyou

[Chickenlegs]

Hey Katherine. I'm just checking in on Sasha. Sure am glad to see that baby is healing. I'm so glad I checked in cause Kibbles makes that "pffft" sound and I've wondered what it is. Didn't worry about it--just curious and now the mystery is SOLVED. :thankyou

[Katherine]

Hey Katherine. I'm just checking in on Sasha. Sure am glad to see that baby is healing. I'm so glad I checked in cause Kibbles makes that "pffft" sound and I've wondered what it is. Didn't worry about it--just curious and now the mystery is SOLVED. :thankyou
Hi. I am learning a lot, too, from little Sasha. It's hard when you don't know what to worry about & what not to worry about. The "pffft" is good to know.:wave123

[Katherine]

Sasha has another scab that has opened. I'm afraid this is going to be an ungoing problem. She finished the baytril for the prvious one. Would silvadene be enough at this point? L has plenty of bayril but Sasha just finisded 1 10 day treatment?

[Katherine]

L is putting silvadene on 2nd open scab. What about AB?

[Katherine]

Crittermom. Thanks for recommending emu oil for Sasha. I've ordered it & certainly looks like it will help baby out with a chronic problem.

IR. Sasha continues baytril.

[island rehabber]

Katherine can you or L. do a really close inspection of Sasha and make sure she does not have other abrasions/scratches under her fur? I am concerned that these scabs keep opening up....from where, though? Feel her very carefully for lumps, scabs or scratches that may erupt later.....

[Katherine]

Katherine can you or L. do a really close inspection of Sasha and make sure she does not have other abrasions/scratches under her fur? I am concerned that these scabs keep opening up....from where, though? Feel her very carefully for lumps, scabs or scratches that may erupt later.....
IR. Yesterday, which was the 1st day, her niece (vet ass't who gave her Sasha) came up from PA to visit. She was the one who rasied her when found with broken legs. She checked her out. These scabs are on left hind leg. When niece had her, she did not provide a habitat that provided softness to prevent Sasha from dragging hind legs. She walks in such a way, that the left drags the most. Also, she was home very little & didn't really give Sasha best attention. So, she was always getting leg caught or scraped. They never really healed, except to form scabs. Now, L has set-up a new habitat, with fleece lining & Sasha's room has microfleece on the floor for out of cage time. So, absolutely no new cuts, scrapes have developed since . These are re-opeing of old ones. The 1st that re-opened had a large scab, now that has healed completely. The current one, also never healed completely. It is my hope that once healed , in her new protective environment, they will not reopen. Niece did a double check for lumps,etc. L, checks herself, but is not a pro. No other irregularites in Sasha.

[CritterMom]

Yes, are they all rub sores? They will be on her arms and legs, "elbows" etc - on the bottom side of her - if this is the case. If she has sores elsewhere, this may be something else.

If they are rub sores, her housing needs to be looked at again. I was at the fabric store the other day, picking up some fleece (what else) and I saw that microfiber "fur" fabric. It isn't cheap, but it is so soft and slick that you could drag around on it all day without doing any damage - stuff feels like it is slicked down with silicone! If that was used for the cage bottom covers, I think it would help alleviate the rub sores.

[Katherine]

Yes, are they all rub sores? They will be on her arms and legs, "elbows" etc - on the bottom side of her - if this is the case. If she has sores elsewhere, this may be something else.

If they are rub sores, her housing needs to be looked at again. I was at the fabric store the other day, picking up some fleece (what else) and I saw that microfiber "fur" fabric. It isn't cheap, but it is so soft and slick that you could drag around on it all day without doing any damage - stuff feels like it is slicked down with silicone! If that was used for the cage bottom covers, I think it would help alleviate the rub sores.
There are no sores anywhere else on Sasha. She came to L with 3 sores with very think scabs on left hind leg. 1 only, opened, was treated w/silvadene & bayril. Has healed nicely with no scab. The 2nd is the one currently being treated. The 3rd, with scab, L has putting silvadene on to keep from openeing. i don't know if that will do it. L has fleece in the cage. She ordered via internet, microfleece, to make a carpet for Sasha in her room duriing "out of cage" time. That seems perfect. Sasha moves on it all the time & both legs are free of any cuts, etc. Also, when niece brought Sasha to L, her legs were full of healed sores from her not doing anything to make habitat more fitting for sasha's legs. Any thoughts if silvadene will keep 3rd scab from opening?:wave123

[Katherine]

Yesterday, when L's niece came, she took stool sample from Sasha back to her office. The results are negative. L continues with bayril (niece also brought her extra, if needed) and silvadene is being applied.

[island rehabber]

Sounds like she's in very good hands now with you and L, and I'm glad she will stay on the Baytril for another few days. :thumbsup

[Chickenlegs]

Hey Katherine. I'm glad little Sasha is healing. Sweet girl has had some hard times--but nothing her doting Momm(ies) can't fix with love and care. You and L are earning your halos. Oh--somewhere I read about old fur coats being donated for squirrlies (or other critters) who have mobility problems--maybe down Jackie's way. It's been awhile but maybe there's something like that up towards you.