When do babies no longer need heat??

[mudmaiden]

Hi all...I have 2 babies that I have had now for 3 weeks...their eyes are still closed but their fur has come in...my question is...I have had them on a heating pad set on low for 3 weeks...everytime I try to turn it off they cry...lol....is it safe to turn it off now...I think they will be warm enough...I have rehabbed several squirrels and released them...but most already have fur when I get them ,so this kind of new to me...any ideas will help...thanks!!

[muffinsquirrel]

I usually wait until the babies are moving off the heat on their own. They are fully furred, eyes open, beginning to explore.

muffinsquirrel

[island rehabber]

I do the same as muffinsquirrel said -- pretty much let them decide. Also, depends on how warm or chilly your house is. We've had some nasty cold nights here in NYC these past few weeks, so my 6-wk old is on heat and the 7-wk old just moved off yesterday.

[squirrelsrule&bunniestoo]

I keep mine on heat for longer. I don't take them off until they are 8-9 weeks old and nearly weaned. I have always been told that the heat helps them digest better, so I leave them on it for longer. I am in the basement where it is only 60-63 degrees too, so the heating pad helps. I would definetely leave them on it at least until their eyes open.

[mudmaiden]

Thanks so much for your advice..I am thrilled that I found this site..I am sure I will find many occasions to seek help from all you nice people!!!