HELP!!! Lethargic squirrel, not acting himself

[littlesquirt]

I have a male grey squirrel who is about 4 months old now. I got him when he was very young and raised him on esbilac. He is now eating HHB's, veggies, fruit and nuts. I left for the weekend and my sisters were taking care of him, this is the FIRST time i've been away from him for over 30 hours since i've got him. If I leave on a friday I am back by saturday evening. But this time I left on friday and got back sunday. I left them with instructions to give him lettuce, a peice of apple, two HHB's and some green beans.

Well, I get back today and he is simply not himself. He is still eating and pooping and peeing fine BUT he isn't bouncing around and flying all over the place. All he does is sleep in his cage, usually if i'm in the room he's bouncing around begging to come out. Also, when he protests about things there is a sharp grunting and twittering noise like he is lecturing you. This time it sounded a bit hoarse, like if a person had a scratchy throat. He isn't nearly as vocal as he usually is. I fed him some esbilac and he ate it and then let him go back to his cage to sleep. Can anyone tell me what it may be? a cold? prior to this i sometimes heard him sneeze. There is no clicking when he breathes. I just know there is SOMETHING wrong with him and he's not himself at all. PLEASE if anyone has any suggestions please help, i'm so worried this will turn into a horrible case.

[Lulu-Bean's Mommy]

I'm sure someone will come on with more experience, but first...
what did your sister say? Have you talked to her? Had she noticed any sneezing, or a fall, anything out of the ordinary? Did she follow your feeding instructions exactly, or did she give him some people food?
Don't put the blame on her, just see what she knows.

[littlesquirt]

She said that she fed him exactly according to my instructions and he had no falls. But I do know he was very stressed out about my absence. Apparently she had such a hard time putting him back in the cage that she had to wrap him up in a scarf to calm him down. Should I give him anything right now? He is eating and drinking fine but just won't run around and play. I don't notice any limping or anything that would suggest a fall.

[Lulu-Bean's Mommy]

Is he breathing fast?

Otherwise, I'm wondering if he's not just tuckered out from being stressed. Has he been out of his cage while you were away before? Even though he may have met your sister before, he might have been stressed from it just being her and him, and not you. I know Lulu-Bean will stay in her cage (by her own will) for a day after I have to make her travel (which is rare).

Any one else have thoughts?

[Lulu-Bean's Mommy]

littlesquirt-any chance you can take a picture? People on here like to see what's going on, so maybe someone will be able to tell you something if they can see how he looks. Try not to worry too much. If there is something wrong, you're able to catch it, it's still early in his odd behavior. Maybe by tomorrow he'll be up and running again, just keep a close eye on him.

I'll check back on what others say in the morning. I have classes I need to get up for, so I can't allow myself to stay on much longer.

[littlesquirt]

I don't notice anything about his breathing being abnormaly fast. They have taken him out of the cage before when I'm not at home and played with him and he has always been fine. Of course, I always came home later on to see him. I would think that maybe he was stressed because maybe he thought I wasn't comming back except for when he starts to make noises. Usually they are sharp and clear but right now they sound a little raspy and gurgly. I'm not sure how to describe it but he doesn't sound the way he usually does. Right now he is sleeping in my robe....sometime he hasn't done for a LONG time since he usually won't sit still once he's out of the cage.

[littlesquirt]

how do I upload pictures? If he is not feeling well in the morning I will post them up right away.

Another thing I noticed is that he wore away the hair on the top of his nose, most likely from self causes friction from the cage bars. Perhaps it was from anxiety trying to get out and find me? or it could also be from him pulling in the 3 headbands from my dresser which he managed to destroy while I was away (he can reach his hands through the cage bars and grab things on the dresser if they are close enough, i have a feeling my sister may have knocked some things over). But him grabbing and chewing things from my dresser is not a new thing, he has already destroyed 3 makeup bags.

[Lulu-Bean's Mommy]

I don't notice anything about his breathing being abnormaly fast. They have taken him out of the cage before when I'm not at home and played with him and he has always been fine. Of course, I always came home later on to see him. I would think that maybe he was stressed because maybe he thought I wasn't comming back except for when he starts to make noises. Usually they are sharp and clear but right now they sound a little raspy and gurgly. I'm not sure how to describe it but he doesn't sound the way he usually does. Right now he is sleeping in my robe....sometime he hasn't done for a LONG time since he usually won't sit still once he's out of the cage.

To me, that sounds good. It seems like he missed you, and you might be right in thinking he thought you weren't coming back. What the little fella's name?
Still, keep an eye on him. He might have a cold too. I hope someone else can give you better advice than I can. Just let him do what he wants right now, and if that means sleeping on you, that's good.
Keep posting!

[Lulu-Bean's Mommy]

From what I've read on the board, some squirrels will rub away the fur on their itty bitty noses from their cage. So maybe he was pressed up against the side looking for you.
To upload pics, click on the paperclip icon in the toolbar above the textbox. It'll bring up a box to upload pics. You may have to resize them (might be too big) but that I usually do before hand anyways.
Upload a picture in the morning if he doesn't seem better. If he makes even a little improvement, that's good! Still, keep an eye on him. Let me know!
I need to go to bed now, unfortunately. I'll check again in the morning to see how he's doing, or if anyone else has some thoughts.
Give him a kiss on his not-so-furry nose!

[littlesquirt]

THERE IS A CLICKING NOISE!!!!! He is sleeping in my robe and for a minute or two I heard a low steady clicking noise!!! Does that mean he has pneumonia???

[littlesquirt]

Thanks to everyone for their responses! I will keep you all updated on how he is doing. His name is squirt :)

[Nancy in New York]

I am a little concerned with the clicking. Can you keep him away from your dresser too so that he can't grab things off, he may get a hold of something that could hurt him and especially if he has already gotten 3 makeup bags...:D What size cage do you have him in? He does need room to run, how much do you have him out through the day?
Do you give him extra calcium, I normally like to give extra. I'm not quite sure about his diet, it doesn't seem like he is eating enough. Are you giving him iceberg lettuce...that really doesn't have any nutritional value..and a piece of apple. Have you seen the healthy diet...he is a growin boy and right now doesn't need to be limited with the foods that he eats except for nuts...not too many...Go to this link below and then there is also a link to healthy foods...I really am concerned he isn't getting enough to eat...I know that you said he eats veggies and fruits but it seems like what you instructed you sister to feed him wasn't enough...try to post a picture and we can better help you....glad that you found us, you will be in good hands...:grouphug

http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=17677

[PBluejay2]

THERE IS A CLICKING NOISE!!!!! He is sleeping in my robe and for a minute or two I heard a low steady clicking noise!!! Does that mean he has pneumonia???

A pneumonia "click" is pretty consistent with each breath and sounds like it's coming from the throat. They make lots of noises, however. If he's still lethargic this morning, listen closely to his breathing. If you still hear a consistent clicking sound or he open-mouth breathes, I'd get him on Baytril or Sulfatrim asap. It's hard to diagnose by just reading descriptions of symptoms, but I'd rather be safe than sorry.

[littlesquirt]

I change his food daily (as in the type of fruit and veggies I give him) but for the weekend I prepared a little canister of "salad" for her to feed him. I'm going to take a picture as soon as I can get the camera from my mom (she took it away on a business trip).He has not shown signs of improvment. Still very lethargic. He did take a poop and pee in the morning. The pee was yellow, should I hydrate? Do u recommend heat? I don't know if I can get anything for him (like baytril) because I live in an area where you should not keep squirrels. Is there any human grade antibiotics that I can get and give to him? Is there any way I can order it? I have a rabbit and a cat, would a vet prescribe them Baytril? Can i give him echinacea? I heard someone had luck with amoxicillin, could that work? I can get that from the doctors today.

i try to uplod pictures but even if i make them smaller, it's still too big!! what format should I use?

[PBluejay2]

I change his food daily (as in the type of fruit and veggies I give him) but for the weekend I prepared a little canister of "salad" for her to feed him. I'm going to take a picture as soon as I can get the camera from my mom (she took it away on a business trip).He has not shown signs of improvment. Still very lethargic. He did take a poop and pee in the morning. The pee was yellow, should I hydrate? Do u recommend heat? I don't know if I can get anything for him (like baytril) because I live in an area where you should not keep squirrels. Is there any human grade antibiotics that I can get and give to him? Is there any way I can order it? I have a rabbit and a cat, would a vet prescribe them Baytril? Can i give him echinacea? I heard someone had luck with amoxicillin, could that work? I can get that from the doctors today.

i try to uplod pictures but even if i make them smaller, it's still too big!! what format should I use?

I usually try not to give squirrels any penicillin-based antibiotics, but if amoxycillin is the only thing you can get, people have used it before, and it works on respiratory infections. If at all possible, try to get the oral suspension. But try to see if your vet will give you some Baytril or Sulfatrim for your rabbit. Yes, I'd provide a heating pad (with room to get off of it if he wants to) and hydration is always important.

[littlesquirt]

what about apo-ciproflox??? I have that one\

[PBluejay2]

what about apo-ciproflox??? I have that one\

What is Ciprofloxacin?

Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat urinary tract infections, skin infections, and respiratory infections. Ciprofloxacin requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

For: Cats and Dogs

Benefits:
• Ciprofloxacin kills bacteria that causes infections of the skin, urinary tract, kidneys, and respiratory system.

How it works:
Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone, an antimicrobial medicine that kills bacteria and prevents future growth.

Cautions:
Side effects may include loose stools and diarrhea.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

More Information:
Brand Name
Cipro Tablets (Bayer)

Generic Name
Ciprofloxacin
What is the most important information I should know about Ciprofloxacin: Ciprofloxacin is a prescription medication that is not FDA-approved for veterinary use. However, it is commonly prescribed by veterinarians for use in dogs and cats. Ciprofloxacin is available as 250mg and 500mg tablets. The usual dose of Ciprofloxacin for dogs and cats is 2.27-6.8mg/pound every 12 hours. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. Do not give Ciprofloxacin to any pet other than the pet for whom it was prescribed. Ciprofloxacin is not for use in animals allergic to it or other fluoroquinolone antibiotic drugs. Do not give to puppies younger than 28 weeks of age.

What is Ciprofloxacin: Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used for the treatment of bacterial infections of the urinary tract, skin, respiratory tract, and wound infections due to susceptible organisms. This medication may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this guide.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Ciprofloxacin to my pet:
Tell your veterinarian if your pet has had epilepsy or seizures, or has joint problems or kidney disease. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating.

How should this medication be given: Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Give all of the medication your veterinarian has prescribed. Symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated. Ciprofloxacin can be given with or without food, but should be given at the same time every day. Allow plenty of water for your pet to drink. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Store Ciprofloxacin at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.

What happens if I miss giving a dose: Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose the pet: Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of overdose may include seizures, urination problems, or weakness.

What should I avoid while giving Ciprofloxacin to my pet: Do not use Ciprofloxacin in animals allergic to it or other fluoroquinolone antibiotics. Do not give Ciprofloxacin within 2 hours of antacids or sucralfate. Do not give Ciprofloxacin with vitamin/mineral products.

What are the possible side effects of Ciprofloxacin: Stop giving the medication and seek emergency veterinary medical attention if your pet experiences an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue or face; or hives). Stop giving Ciprofloxacin and contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet develops any of these serious side effects: seizures or convulsions, confusion, depression, sudden pain, swelling near the joints, nausea, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, diarrhea that is watery or bloody, or urinating more or less than usual. Other less serious side effects may also occur. Continue to give the medication and talk to your veterinarian if your pet experiences vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, joint stiffness, or muscle pain. Side effects other than those listed may occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to your pet.

What other drugs will affect Ciprofloxacin: Before giving Ciprofloxacin, tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given warfarin, theophylline, probenecid, insulin or oral diabetes medication such as Glipizide, an NSAID such as carprofen, Deramaxx or other, Phenytoin or cyclosporine modified. Drugs other than those listed may also interact with Ciprofloxacin. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over-the-counter medications.

Where can I get more information: Your pharmacist has additional information about Ciprofloxacin written for health professionals that you may read.




Call your veterinarian for medical advice about any side effects to your pet. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

[littlesquirt]

What about Panacur Granules? My cat got prescribed it a week ago.

[PBluejay2]

What about Panacur Granules? My cat got prescribed it a week ago.

That's a dewormer, not an antibiotic

[squirrelfriend]

I gave her a # for a vet. I hope it goes well. It sounds like it might be MBD but it is not certain. With how active these little guys are you never know if they took a fall or got into something that they shouldn't have.

We'll keep him in our preyers and hope for the best.

[Mrs Skul]

:wave123 Littlesquirt, Do you think he might have swallowed some of the headband he destroyed? I know if he can't pass it, the sines are just like what you are describing. Do you have a Vet you can take him to? I am praying for you both.

[littlesquirt]

Thank you squirrel friend for the number :), I called them and they said they would take him in if he is not getting any better by tommorow. Right now he is still sleeping, I have him on heat, he ate a bit of lettuce and apple, I fed him some esbilac, tums with vitamin D, yogurt and ran out and bought some echinacea for him which he ate a bit of.

I hope he didn't ingest anything, but if he did I don't think it was alot since the hairbands were just BADLY frayed, but no large chunks missing.

I'm also worried that he may have worms, because my cat was sick last week and got prescribed Panacur Granules. Can squirrels get these too?

[littlesquirt]

I have a male grey squirrel who is about 4 months old now. I got him when he was very young and raised him on esbilac. He is now eating HHB's, veggies, fruit and nuts. I left for the weekend and my sisters were taking care of him, this is the FIRST time i've been away from him for over 30 hours since i've got him. If I leave on a friday I am back by saturday evening. But this time I left on friday and got back sunday. I left them with instructions to give him lettuce, a peice of apple, two HHB's and some green beans.

.

Also, the instructions for feeding were for per day so each day he got hhb's, fresh lettuce, fresh apple etc.

[Mrs Skul]

Yes squirrels can get worms, almost any parasite. The vet can do a fecal test and let you know if he has any. Then they can treat if necessary.

[Nancy in New York]

I gave her a # for a vet. I hope it goes well. It sounds like it might be MBD but it is not certain. With how active these little guys are you never know if they took a fall or got into something that they shouldn't have.

We'll keep him in our preyers and hope for the best.


WONDERFUL THAT YOU HAD A NUMBER FOR THE VET...:thumbsup

[squirrelfriend]

Other than the hair band is it possible that he might have injested anything that he shouldn't have? Such as house plants or soaps?

Don't give him lettuce. It won't do him any harm but it has no nutrients. Instead give him other leafy greens. Kale, dandilion greens, spinach and broccoli are good. Greens are also a good source of calcium and a great source of nutrients. Greens are very important in their diet.

[littlesquirt]

Just wanted to give an update. I tried to call and find a vet that was close to me, so this morning I googled toronto vets and called every number systematically. Finally I found one that would take him in!!! In the morning I fed him esbilac but I ran out.
Ok soo... I am trying to transport him to the vet and for someone who has sat at home ALL day without moving even to eat, he went frantic and was extremely distressed regardless of the transportation method. Finally I put him in my robe and he calmed down. 5 minutes later I'm walking outside with my coat, my robe and a squirrel tucked underneath. Needless to say people were giving me strange looks. I brought him to the vet and they weighed him and checked his breathing, heartrate etc. He gave me this feeding thing called "critical care", I got the BAYTRIL!!!! the vet also gave me some kind of laxative in case he had ingested anything to let it pass.
Squirt is still tired and lethargic and will not eat any solid food. I manage to force feed him and he is going pee and poo very well. He does have a slight fever and makes and audible noise when breathing. I'm hoping that things will get better in the morning.

My Question is, should I only feed him "critical care", or should I mix it with whey isolate? Should I also give him some heavy cream?