Head injury

[Hammy'sMom]

My little guy has come home with an injury to his head. His head is swollen and his eyes are watery. I am going to clean the wound but what else do I need to do?

[Loopy Squirrel]

Does the wound look like a puncture wound, possibly from a cat or another squirrel? If it is he should be put on antibiotics ASAP because the wound is to the head which is a direct route to the brain. Where on the head is it, on top or towards the back near his ears? Rest is the best thing for him right now. You can offer fluids (pedialyte) to him and see if he'll take it.

[Hammy'sMom]

I just clean it up and there are two puncture wounds, more than likely from a bite. One is near his ear and the other is about 1 inch lower down his back. I gave him some left over antibiotics from when he had a cut or tear on his back. He is eating some fresh corn and nuts. I wish I could take him to the vet like the last time, but unfortunalty I have lost my job and cannot afford another vet bill. If there is anything else I can do for him along with the antibiotics, i would really appreciate the advice. Thanks so much for your swift responses.

[Loopy Squirrel]

I would just keep him on the antibiotics and keep the wound very clean and dry. It'll probably keep oozing so keep flushing it w/ something simple, like saline water. Don't put any ointments on it because they are harsh on the skin and it'll only hold in bacteria. We want the wound to drain and dry from the inside out. Watch him very carefully because he could have a skull fracture and possibly a concussion. The only other thing that I do w/ head traumas is to give steroids for swelling, but since his wound is open the fluid and pressure has a way out, but don't be surprised if he has a skull fracture and he may swell under the bone. Antibiotics are the most important thing right now. Also watch for possible seizure activity.

[Hammy'sMom]

Thank you Gammas Baby. I really appreaciate your kindness. I would like to see how he does tonight with the antibiotics. My husband told me he saw him yesterday and he is was acting a little strang and his hair on his head was messed up, so I think this happened yesterday. I will keep an eye on him all night, I sure won't be able to sleep tonight. I will clean the ointment off so it can heal from the inside out. I will let you know how he is doing.

[Hammy'sMom]

I just wanted to update everyone. I took Hammi to the vet and it was bot(sp) flies and an infection. The vet was able to get one out, but there is still one more. I have antibiotics for the infection, so we will just have to watch him for now. Thanks to everyone for your help!! :thankyou

[Apple Corps]

Where is the location of the bot fly that is still in there?

Also - what meds is he on?

[tatcat]

hey i am so glad to hear your lil one is doing better:grouphug

[Jackie in Tampa]

:soapbox Hate those things...we've had alot of rain here lately..{tampa}..
and I see them every year that we have rain. Usually don't do to much damage...
Glad you were able to get to the vets and get meds:thumbsup
:wave123 Hello Hammy

[Momma Squirrel]

So glad it isn't head trauma, keep us updated as you can. What a sweetheart, he knew where to come find his mom and get help. :grouphug