Sick Baby Squirrel ?

[MargoBianca]

Hello Everyone, I'm in desperate need of help for a poor little baby squirrel. She seems to have fallen out of her nest,on a cold rainy day with what appears to be minor scrapes. I've researched everything I possibly could to try to help this poor little baby. I've tried to contact many wild life centers, and rehabilitaors, however no one has offered much help.
I brought the baby in, got her warm. I removed several fleas, and also cleaned her scrapes with a warm rag. The first night I fed her pedialyte every 3 hours. I've been reheating water bottles to keep her warm several times throughout the day and night. I spoke with one woman who works with squirrels, she told me to begin her on a kitten formula, so I have been feeding her that every 3 hours. However lately I've noticed she's began to sneeze, she also sounds "raspy" while eating. However she does not make these noises while sleeping.I'm terrified that this poor little girl may be developing Pneumonia. I'm doing everything I possibly can to help this baby that appears to be around 4 weeks old, her eyes are still shut. However I can't find anyone willing to take her in, or give me advice so I can do what is needed.
I may be a little paranoid, since I've read so much on squirrels getting Pneumonia, but I'd rather be safe than sorry. She's continuing to eat/ use the bathroom. She is constantly trying to climb and squirm out of my hands... I've read many places that they become lethargic, this is not the case for this little girl.... Someone please help!!! I will do whatever it takes to help this little baby survive!

[island rehabber]

Where are you in Ohio? We have a member here squirrelsrule&bunniestoo, who is in your state and may be able to help. I will send her a PM now....

[Rainy9]

Hello Everyone, I'm in desperate need of help for a poor little baby squirrel. She seems to have fallen out of her nest,on a cold rainy day with what appears to be minor scrapes. I've researched everything I possibly could to try to help this poor little baby. I've tried to contact many wild life centers, and rehabilitaors, however no one has offered much help.
I brought the baby in, got her warm. I removed several fleas, and also cleaned her scrapes with a warm rag. The first night I fed her pedialyte every 3 hours. I've been reheating water bottles to keep her warm several times throughout the day and night. I spoke with one woman who works with squirrels, she told me to begin her on a kitten formula, so I have been feeding her that every 3 hours. However lately I've noticed she's began to sneeze, she also sounds "raspy" while eating. However she does not make these noises while sleeping.I'm terrified that this poor little girl may be developing Pneumonia. I'm doing everything I possibly can to help this baby that appears to be around 4 weeks old, her eyes are still shut. However I can't find anyone willing to take her in, or give me advice so I can do what is needed.
I may be a little paranoid, since I've read so much on squirrels getting Pneumonia, but I'd rather be safe than sorry. She's continuing to eat/ use the bathroom. She is constantly trying to climb and squirm out of my hands... I've read many places that they become lethargic, this is not the case for this little girl.... Someone please help!!! I will do whatever it takes to help this little baby survive!

Sneezing doesn't always mean pneumonia. From what I've been told, if it is pnuemonia, you should be able to hear a clicking sound and it should become faster when the baby moves around. The fact that she is still eating is a good sign. I think it's pretty normal to feel paranoid in the begining. I've been there quite a few time myself. She may be just fine. :Love_Icon Hoping someone with more experience will be able to help soon.

I hope all goes okay for you two tonight.
Hugs!:grouphug ,
Rainy

[island rehabber]

ok -- sent the PM. Now for the rest of my post :)
The baby should NOT be given kitten milk. I know somebody recommended it but they are very wrong -- kitten milk is not good for baby squirrels and will eventually make her very very sick. PLEASE transition her over to Fox Valley 32/40 Day One formula for Squirrels. www.foxvalleynutrition.com. It must be ordered online, but they are a wonderful company to do business with. You could also contact our member here, 4skwerlz: she can overnight you a starter kit with the formula you need, nipples, syringes etc at a very reasonable cost and faster than the Fox Valley company itself.

As for pneumonia, besides clicking the telltale signs are lethargy and loss of appetite. Doesn't sound like you need to worry about your little one right now :thumbsup :)

[MargoBianca]

I'm near Dayton, Ohio. I spoke with a woman today who works with wild life, however she didn't want to take her in, she said it would be hard to find someone willing to take her, because they would have to house her untill Spring. I will do whatever it takes, If I'm ubable to find someone more experienced to help her, I'm willing to try my best. I would really appreciate any advice, I'm just so scared for her.

[MargoBianca]

I'm new to this so I don't really know my way around. How do I go about contacting the lady with supplies? What should I be feeding her in the mean time. The lady I spoke with earlier said 1 part water, 1 part kitten milk, and 1 part vanilla yogurt. She was supposed to call back, but never did. Do you recommend trying to get her into a vet tomorrow?

[Kristal]

She is a member. You can send her a private message here:

http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/member.php?u=2247

And there is a temp formula which is more recommended from another member, Jackie.

3 parts goats milk
1 part whipping cream
1 part danon or other all natural yoghurt with bacterial culture (vanilla or natural flavoured)

It is all in this indispensable thread here:

http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=11782

[MargoBianca]

Thank you so much for all of your help. I sent her a message and hopefully I'll hear back from her by morning.

[mpetys]

Hi. Her website is www.henryspets.com. You can check it out and see what she has. I would definitely recommend a heating pad. You may have one or can buy one locally. If so, it must be the kind that does NOT have the auto shut off feature. henryspets sells one that is very reasonable. She ships your entire order for $5.99 also so that helps. A lot of people will make what they call a rice buddy for their babies. Take a clean sock and fill it with rice and tie off the top. Microwave this for about a minute, depends upon your microwave. May take a few times to get the right amount of time. You want it nice and toasty, not burning hot. I take a piece of fleece fabric and wrap it around the sock. Most of my babies, especially if they are hurt, sick or weak, like to cuddle up with the rice buddy. I have one now that likes to lay right on top. He also likes to have another piece of fleece over him. They like to burrow. If you don't have any fleece, you can use a nice soft t-shirt. Don't use towels as her nails could get caught in the loops.

Michele in Tampa

[MargoBianca]

I bought her some fleece today. Should I take the water bottles out, and place the cage on top of the heating pad? I just went in to feed her and she sounds worse.She seems so restless, squirming all over the place. She's sneezing almost constantly, and she's also "squeaky" which I'm afraid may be this clicking sound I've been reading about. Is there anything I can do tonight ?

[mpetys]

I also wanted to suggest getting several syringes and nipples to have on hand. They are inexpensive and you never know when you might misplace one or like me, when washing the little nipple, I have dropped it and not been able to find it right away!

There are so many people here that will want to help you through this process of raising this baby. In January, I had 4 babies. Unfortunately three did not make it. I was using the wrong formula. I found a local rehabber who told me about the Fox Valley formula and I ordered some for overnight delivery. Luckily when it arrived, I had one baby still alive and he recovered and thrived. I still have him, he is 8 months old and his name is MonkeyButt! When I found this website, one of the first things I did was READ. Go to the Baby Squirrel section, the nutrition section. Use the search feature. Read old threads. Even now, if someone posts an update about their squirrel that they raised, especially if their were problems, I will go back and read the thread from the beginning. You can learn so much from journeys others have taken. As an example of what I did and still do now, if I am reading someone's posting and they have mentioned their squirrel or a situation with a squirrel, you can click on their name and in the drop down menu, you can click on "view public profile". Then, under "Forum Info", you can click on "find all threads by mpetys" (using me as an example). A list of all the threads that they have started will come up with newest ones first, oldest ones last. You can then see if they started a thread about their squirrel or situation with a squirrel. For example, under my threads, you will see the one where I ask for help about my baby with botflies. When you read that thread, you will see the questions I asked and the responses I got.

I am new to this but besides the first set of babies, I also have three that I got in August. One baby had to work through some feeding and diarrhea issues. Another one had 4 botflies. Last Thursday, I got a baby that was attacked/played with by a cat and was full of maggots. I was able to help these little guys with the assistance of this wonderful board. If you continue to raise this little one, I believe you will find it very rewarding. Just take it one day at a time. Once this little one is stronger, you'll find yourself breathing a bit easier. All you can do is your best. There will be lots of prayers said for your little one. There will also be lots of picture requests!

Even if it appears no one is online or responding, if you are feeding your baby at 2 in the morning and you have a question, go ahead and post it so you can start getting responses.

Please do not hesitate to ask any question, no matter how simple it may seem.

BTW, how long have you had this baby?

Michele in Tampa

[MargoBianca]

Thank you so much for the encouraging words. I just hate the thought of her suffering. I sent the lady a message to order a starter kit, do you have any other suggestions on where I can find such a small syringe and nipple. I went to Petsmart, they hardly had anything. I bought a large syringe there (the only one they had) and have been feeding her drop by drop. I found her Saturday afternoon, the breathing problems just began yesterday evening.I've also noticed when I'm feeding her she opens her mouth really wide, and then will continue to eat. Is this her yawning or having difficulty breathing ? I'm so worried... I wish there was something I could do now.

[mpetys]

I bought her some fleece today. Should I take the water bottles out, and place the cage on top of the heating pad? I just went in to feed her and she sounds worse.She seems so restless, squirming all over the place. She's sneezing almost constantly, and she's also "squeaky" which I'm afraid may be this clicking sound I've been reading about. Is there anything I can do tonight ?


There are members here who know all about what antibiotics to use and how to figure out the dosage. I am no help there. I know you said that you couldn't get any help from any rehabber; but do you know if the state you are in if it is legal for a vet to treat a squirrel for a non licensed person? I ask because I have read of so many instances where people could not get veterinary care because they were in what we call an "illegal" state. There are also lots of warnings about making sure before you turn a baby over to a vet or even some rehabbers, that they will not automatically euthanize the baby as that is what some do. I am hoping that some of our experienced rehabbers will be online and can help you out with your questions about medications. Do you have any other animals? Any leftover meds from them? If so, find them so when help arrives online, you can see if you have the recommended meds. If not, we'll have to go from there.

When you take her out to feed her, does she retain her body heat or does she lose it? They say that you shouldn't feed a cold baby. With my first one, I had that problem so that when I removed him from his warm fleece and rice buddy, he would get cold. I started taking his rice buddy out with him to help keep him warm.

What are you using to feed him with now?

I wish I was more help. One thing I know is to keep her warm. One nice thing about the rice buddy is that after you initially heat it, you usually don't have to keep re-microwaving it. If you heating pad is warm enough, you can just turn the rice buddy over and have the warm side on top now. The cooler side will be warmed now by the heating pad.

I cut my fleece up into different sizes, whatever works for your baby. What kind of cage is she in? Is it a plastic bottom or a wire bottom? Does the bottom have direct contact with the heating pad? I put a piece of fleece on top of my heating pad and then the cage. I also line the bottom of her cage with fleece, several layers. Make sure that only one half of the cage is on the heating pad and the other 1/2 is not. You may need to put a towel under that side to level it out if it makes much difference. I start my baby off on the side that is on the heating pad, but this way, if she gets too warm, she can crawl toward the center and get away from the heat if it is too hot. When starting out, I put my heating pad on MED to warm up the cage and then backed it down to LOW. However, please check, feel, in her cage to see what it feels like. Depending on what you have between the heating pad and the cage and the layers of fleece in the cage, LOW setting may not keep warm enough.

What kind of cage is she in? Oh, I already asked that. For little ones, especially if they are hurt or sick, I use a plastic box (Sterlite or Rubbermaid type). Drill one half inch holes in the lid and also all around the box toward the top. I learned this from one of the members on this board. I love it. It really helps keep the baby warm. My first baby, I used a 10 gallon aquarium which is not good because the glass stays cold. The warmth is just at the bottom where the heat source is. With a cage, even a small one, the openness doesn't help keep the warmth in. I also like this because, while I have my babies in their own bedroom, I do have cats. The cats are not allowed in there but heaven forbid if one slipped in without me knowing about it, the little baby is in a plastic box with the lid securely latched shut.

I know I am just throwing a lot out at you. I have to go feed my baby right now. Keep that baby warm and hopefully some help will be online. I am hoping that the rehabber they mentioned is close to you. She is great and it sounds like your baby may need extra care.

Michele in Tampa

[mpetys]

I hate leaving you right now. But here is something you can do while you are online and worrying: read.

I did a search for "clicking" and "pneumonia". Here is a link to all the threads that came up: http://www.thesquirrelboard.com/forums/search.php?searchid=910346

Try reading some of the threads. You may find some help for where you are at now. Skip around, go by the headings to see what looks promising.

Good luck.

Michele in Tampa

[MargoBianca]

Thank you again for taking the time to reply :) I do have some antibiotics that were prescribed to my dog(a boxer) a few months ago for a skin rash, and also, my aunt just took her kitten to the vet, she offered for me to use some of the antibiotics they gave to her, but I was afraid to try them, not knowing what I was doing. I will find the names of the antibiotics tomorrow, and post them. I have her in a wire cage, and I have her placed in the bathroom. I've been running hot water in the shower while I'm feeding her to try to keep her body temperature up. I try to keep her wrapped in a fleece blanket while feeding her, but she is constantly squirming. I've been keeping her warm with hot water bottles placed in a sock. I need to go to the store tomorrow,and buy some rice, we unfortunately don't have any here right now. I have a large plastic box, do you think this would be better to place her in, that way there wouldn't be as much of a draft.

[SquirrelsinSingapore]

ok -- sent the PM. Now for the rest of my post :)
The baby should NOT be given kitten milk. I know somebody recommended it but they are very wrong -- kitten milk is not good for baby squirrels and will eventually make her very very sick. PLEASE transition her over to Fox Valley 32/40 Day One formula for Squirrels. www.foxvalleynutrition.com. It must be ordered online, but they are a wonderful company to do business with. You could also contact our member here, 4skwerlz: she can overnight you a starter kit with the formula you need, nipples, syringes etc at a very reasonable cost and faster than the Fox Valley company itself.


Aww overnight? Such a nice gesture...
This squirrel is loveddd

[mpetys]

Thank you again for taking the time to reply :) I do have some antibiotics that were prescribed to my dog(a boxer) a few months ago for a skin rash, and also, my aunt just took her kitten to the vet, she offered for me to use some of the antibiotics they gave to her, but I was afraid to try them, not knowing what I was doing. I will find the names of the antibiotics tomorrow, and post them. I have her in a wire cage, and I have her placed in the bathroom. I've been running hot water in the shower while I'm feeding her to try to keep her body temperature up. I try to keep her wrapped in a fleece blanket while feeding her, but she is constantly squirming. I've been keeping her warm with hot water bottles placed in a sock. I need to go to the store tomorrow,and buy some rice, we unfortunately don't have any here right now. I have a large plastic box, do you think this would be better to place her in, that way there wouldn't be as much of a draft.

Thought I would check back before going to sleep. Yes, find the names of the meds you have as well as the strengths.

I think I would put her in the plastic box. Just leave lid off. I didn't mean that to sound like I thought you would seal her up!!!! I just thought better to say it than not, since I had mentioned earlier that mine has lid (with holes). Oh, it is getting late, tired, sleepy. :rotfl

Is the bathroom secure (door closed) from dog? Don't worry about leaving light on for her. From what i understand, dark, quiet and warm is good. Comforting, calming. I know some have talked about running steam in bathroom for babies and taking babies in there for like 15 minutes or so, just to help break up any congestion. I don't really know about using it to keep warm. It is a moist heat and may not be best. We'll have to ask others to chime in, in the morning.

Good night, I'll check in,in the morning.

Michele in Tampa

[mpetys]

Just checking in to see how your baby made it through the night. I hope everything is okay. This posting will also put your thread back at the top where hopefully the experienced rehabbers will see it.

Michele in Tampa

[squirrelsrule&bunniestoo]

Didn't have time to read through the whole post, so I don't have any care advice, but can give you some numbers of people nearby. You may have already tried them all, but maybe now. Here are the numbers:

Lynn Reily in Greene County (937) 374-1674

Some in Hamilton (I know it is a little further, but I think they have a network of home based rehabbers and have people all over southwest Ohio, so someone in the network might be closer to you, not positive though):

Second Chance (513) 875-3433

Linda Ott (513) 471-2025

Sara Moore: (513) 941-6304

We have been hit hard with fall squirrels and many people (including me) are overwhelmed with babies, so that is probably the reason for not much help on the phone :shakehead. Hopefully you can get a hold of someone from my list, or you can help the baby yourself with all the great advice found on this site! The main issue with squirrels now is just that they are COLD and emaciated, so warmth first then slowly easing into formula (dillute it down to 4:1 or even 5:1 for the first day or two to easy their systems in) and then getting them to gain weight and they are good to go (well, after several weeks :tilt)

[CritterMom]

Syringes: Until you get your shipment, go to the drug store and speak directly to the pharmacist. Tell him/her that your cat had kittens and rejected one and you need a couple 1cc syringes to feed with because it is so small you are afraid of aspirating. They will probably give you a handful. You can use without the nipple until your order arrives. Feed really slowly - aspiration is the usual reason for pneumonia at this age.

The weird gaping thing - many call it guppy mouth - is sort of a nursing trance. Wait until she stops - sometimes a tap on the head or wiggling the syringe around in her mouth a bit will snap them out of it - and then continue feeding, but slow down.

Housing (for now): A small plastic bin is best - put some holes in the top. Set half on and half off constant-on heating pad set on low. Fill box with fleece. Plastic allows for a little humidity to prevent dehydration, and stays warmer than a cage. The heating pad really is a must. The one at Henry's is good - if you have a CVS nearby they sell a constant-on pad (no auto shut off) for about the same price - it is their bottom of the line pad - maybe $15 or so??

You can use dried beans in your "rice buddy" too, but they only hold heat for a short time. The heating pad is the way to go - turn it on and you're done!

Meds: It sounds as though she may need them. What do you have - we need names and the strengths.

[MargoBianca]

I'm getting ready to head to Walgreens now. I've just been feeding her very slow with the syringe I have, and she's been getting really impatient. She's had quite an appetite both last night and this morning, she's using the bathroom reguarly. She's still quite the busy body, which I'm hoping is a good sign,she also hasn't seemed to be sneezing quite as much, it's almost more of a sniffle. I haven't noticed the rattling sound as much but I still think she may need some medication just to be safe. I also noticed today while feeding her that her bottom teeth are starting to come in.

I switched her housing last night to a medium sized plastic box, should I buy a smaller one that way it's able to retain heat better? I've also placed a heating pad under one side of the box, however it doesn't seem to be providing much heat, so I've continued to also refill her hot water bottles. The box is lined with a towel, covered by fleece and plenty of extra material for her to cuddle up in.

I have the name of my dogs medication, it's Cefpodoxime Proxetil 200 mg. I am also still trying to reach my aunt for the name and dosage of the liquid antibiotic she has for her kitten.

I spoke with Lyne yesterday on the phone, she was very helpful, and told me she would try to contact the 8 people under her to see if they could provide care. However I have not heard back from her. So I will give this little girl everything I've got to help her pull through.

Thank you so much for all of your help, I will be ordering her shipment of food from Fox Valley today. Untill then I will be using the formula provided earlier in the forum.:thankyou

[MargoBianca]

She is now breathing with her mouth slightly open while sleeping, and there is what appears to be a small "click" with every breath. I need help fast :( I'm so worried!

[Pierre]

I'm bumping this for help from rehabbers.

Mouth breathing is a sign of pneumonia and she sounds like she needs AB's. Cefpodoxime Proxetil is a cephalosporin AB and should be alright for pneumonia since you don't have anything else, until perhaps you can get some baytril.
Do you have any AB for yourself, Cipro perhaps??

Hope someone comes back soon with good advice and any dosing for the AB you do have, or alternate advice!

Best of luck and don't give up. Keep her warm. Also, if you steam the bathroom with a hot shower and let her sit in the steamy room for 15 or so minutes sometimes helps with the congestion she has, and helps her breathe better.

[MargoBianca]

Thank you so much! No, I don't have any other ab's. I need to get something in her fast though, I'm so worried about her. I've been keeping her warm. I've been keeping her warm with a heating pad, and water bottles. I'm going to make her a rice buddy tonight. I've steamed the bathroom up for her twice now, I really hope it's helping. Any ideas on where I can find another ab, or should I just give her the one I have ? I feel so helpless :( I want to help her before it gets beyond the point of helping.

[Pierre]

I'm copying a message from your first page for ease sake, below. Have you tried the rehabbers listed? Maybe someone can meet you with AB's, or give you the correct dose for the one you have, or alternate advice.

These folks will be qualified to give you good help!!
Best of luck and I'd call asap.
Keep us posted! :) Thanks for helping this baby!



squirrelsrule&bunniestoo squirrelsrule&bunniestoo is offline
Licensed rehabber specializing in squirrels and bunnies, Ohio

Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Northeast Ohio
Posts: 4,815
Default Re: Sick Baby Squirrel ?

Didn't have time to read through the whole post, so I don't have any care advice, but can give you some numbers of people nearby. You may have already tried them all, but maybe now. Here are the numbers:

Lynn Reily in Greene County (937) 374-1674

Some in Hamilton (I know it is a little further, but I think they have a network of home based rehabbers and have people all over southwest Ohio, so someone in the network might be closer to you, not positive though):

Second Chance (513) 875-3433

Linda Ott (513) 471-2025

Sara Moore: (513) 941-6304

We have been hit hard with fall squirrels and many people (including me) are overwhelmed with babies, so that is probably the reason for not much help on the phone . Hopefully you can get a hold of someone from my list, or you can help the baby yourself with all the great advice found on this site! The main issue with squirrels now is just that they are COLD and emaciated, so warmth first then slowly easing into formula (dillute it down to 4:1 or even 5:1 for the first day or two to easy their systems in) and then getting them to gain weight and they are good to go (well, after several weeks )

[CritterMom]

What are the kitten meds- can you find out? Someone is working on this...

[Pierre]

Thank you, CrM!

[mugzeezma]

What are the kitten meds- can you find out? Someone is working on this...
I can dose this but I'm not sure it will help for respiratory issues...any amoxicillin anywhere? friends family?
Can you get a tablet of SMZ-TMP from from your vet? tell them strait up it's for an animal that is going to be picked up by a rehabber but that it has pneumonia and needs meds yesterday.
Don't try crushing the tablet and giving a pinch...
I tell you how to do it right

[MargoBianca]

I can try to give Banfield a call, My mom has a few tablets of Cipro 500mg, I know someone mentioned this earlier?

[mugzeezma]

I can try to give Banfield a call, My mom has a few tablets of Cipro 500mg, I know someone mentioned this earlier?

Cipro can cause joint and tendon issues ...call the vet and if we have to we will do what we have to. Pneumonia kills quickly.
Ask the for the Vet...Tell them all you need is one tab for an emergency situation and to save this babies life so you can get it to a rehabber...I'm sure he will grumble so don't back down....crying helps :D

[MargoBianca]

I tried :( They said not only do they not do that, it's illegal, but the animal would have to be seen by a wild life specialist to dertermine what ab was needed...eek ! She's still moving around like crazy, and has a big appetite... I dont know what to do ? I have to go to class, I'll be back at 7. Thank you for your help!

[mugzeezma]

weigh her and I will dose for the Cefpodoxime Proxetil.

[Pierre]

Cipro is the same class of AB as Baytril--> the fluoroquinolones. All drugs in this class can cause cartilage erosions in joints and other arthopathies in young animals.

I don't know if there is a difference in sqs, if so, apologies. If not, cipro might be a good alternative to Baytril.

[mugzeezma]

Cipro is the same class of AB as Baytril--> the fluoroquinolones. All drugs in this class can cause cartilage erosions in joints and other arthopathies in young animals.

I don't know if there is a difference in sqs, if so, apologies. If not, cipro might be a good alternative to Baytril.
Whatever she wants to do I will dose it. Cipro may be more effective for pneumonia than the Cefpodoxime Proxetil which is usually prescribed for staph type skin infections and less for pneumonia. The high concentration of the Cipro will put it into the hundredths of ccs and may be trickier to administer for her.
So far the baby is still bouncing around. May not need anything...

[island rehabber]

Cipro and Baytril are nearly identical, HOWEVER: animals can take Cipro or Baytril. Humans CANNOT use Baytril; it causes seizures in homo sapiens.

The "plate development issues" in young animals regarding Baytril is one of those medical warnings that gets misinterpreted a LOT. A study was done on some sick Great Dane puppies who were given Baytril for 30-90 day courses, and it affected their long bone growth. We are not dosing Great Danes...we are certainly not giving Baytril for longer than 7 days. There is no reason to believe that Baytril will harm the bone growth of a baby squirrel if only given BID for 4-7 days. My vet and many respected wildlife experts agree on this.

[Pierre]

Agreed with regard to the possible joint issues [I've worked in pharma for 15-20 yrs and yes, labeling can be difficult].

All aspects of medicine require a thought towards whether the benefits outweigh any possible risks. Here the benefits completely win.

I realize the dosing might be hard.

With all your collective help, this baby is in great hands. :)

[mpetys]

I'm so glad that MargoBianca is getting some help with her baby. I felt so bad for her last night, up with a sick baby, worried and needing info on meds. I am so glad that I live in Florida! Readily available vet care as well as lotsa helpful rehabbers! I feel so bad for people who live in the "illegal" states who find a baby squirrel dropped in their lap and no help available. Thank goodness that this baby ended up with someone who is not going to give up. Thank you MargoBianca for sticking with this baby!

Michele in Tampa

[MargoBianca]

Hello ! Thanks for all the feeback, she weighs 1.2 oz, we weighed her yesterday.

Which medication would your recommend me to give to her ?

I'm so confused, I've spoke with a few people from the contact list, and they all have given different advice. Some say not to treat with an antibiotic, they're wild animals, and that they will kill both the good and bad bacteria in the body... others have mentioned drops.

Overall I'm just really nervous. I wish there was someone close, so they could take a look at her. One lady told me that some babies make a lot of noise.... I don't know what sounds are normal and abnormal. I just would hate for her to be sick and not get treated...

[mpetys]

One lady told me that some babies make a lot of noise.... I don't know what sounds are normal and abnormal. I just would hate for her to be sick and not get treated...

Can you make a voice recording on your cell phone of her sounds? Of the three babies I got in August, one of the girls had me scared for a bit. She started making sounds and I was worried at first that she had pneumonia. The best way I could describe it was that she did not make this sound when sleeping. It was when she was active, moving around. It reminded me of a baby pig, grunting. ooo ugh ooo ugh ooo ugh ooo ugh. She would get excited when eating and if I was too slow with a refill, she would make that sound.

I don't think she is making that sound as much. I tried to record it and one of the recordings is September 7th so she would have been around six weeks old at the time. I never could get a good recording. Let me know if you do.

Michele in Tampa

[CritterMom]

Oh, they grunt, they snuffle, they make a "pft!" noise a lot. They growl and they also purr like a cat, but a bit quieter.

Pneumonia is a clicking noise that happens all the time, asleep, awake, when they breathe. Pick her up and hold her chest to your ear. The clicks would happen at every breath. Often they are accompanied by open mouth breathing.

[mugzeezma]

Hello ! Thanks for all the feeback, she weighs 1.2 oz, we weighed her yesterday.

Which medication would your recommend me to give to her ?

I'm so confused, I've spoke with a few people from the contact list, and they all have given different advice. Some say not to treat with an antibiotic, they're wild animals, and that they will kill both the good and bad bacteria in the body... others have mentioned drops.

Overall I'm just really nervous. I wish there was someone close, so they could take a look at her. One lady told me that some babies make a lot of noise.... I don't know what sounds are normal and abnormal. I just would hate for her to be sick and not get treated...
How much fur does this baby have? Does it's tail have fur but is not bushy? do you know how old?
I gust want to make gur the weight is right.
Do you have the Cipro?
You need a 1cc dosing syringe...you can get them at CVS pharmacies free
if you use that the amount will bill be very very tiny like .oo4 when a 500 milligram tab is ground and suspended in 1 tsp (5ml) of Karo syrup or molasses. I rework this.

[Rescue04]

If I had a way to ship meds to you I would. As for warmth, if you can not find a constant of heater (I do not recomend those) you can find the ones that shut down every two hours. Wal-mart sells a lamp timer that works in 15 minute intervals - the model is a BRINKS 42-1020 (6.97). I have run up to 3 heating pads off of it. If you have one that is constant on already - I suggest getting this timer - this way it never gets too hot.

We had one baby who made a popping noise - close to clicking, but when I would pick them up and hold them next to my ear it would stop. If you do get a powdered tablet to make meds, you can mix it with grenadine (very fruity) to dilute it - our babies take meds well when we use it to mix with.

Hope this helps.

[MargoBianca]

She has a name now :)
http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww352/MargoBionca86/Tilly.jpg
This is Tilly !


This makes me feel so much better :) Is it possible that the "pft" noise could be mistaken for a sneeze? Because she tends to do that a lot. It's almost as if there is a little rattle in her chest, maybe this is the purring noise? It's just all so scary to me, I've never had experience with a squirrel before, little lone one this small. She just finished eating, she's still trying to crawl all over the place when eating, she's got a big appetite.

I'm going to post a picture, from what I've read I'm guessing she's maybe 4 weeks old... what do you think ?

[mugzeezma]

How much fur does this baby have? Does it's tail have fur but is not bushy? do you know how old?
I gust want to make gur the weight is right.
Do you have the Cipro?
You need a 1cc dosing syringe...you can get them at CVS pharmacies free
if you use that the amount will bill be very very tiny like .oo4 when a 500 milligram tab is ground and suspended in 1 tsp (5ml) of Karo syrup or molasses. I rework this.
sorry about the terrible typing...squirrel pulled half the keys of my keyboard and it barely functions that is if I can figure out which keys i'm striking! Gs and Ss are the worst

Okay if you truly believe this baby is ill then she needs to be treated. Pneumonia will kill her if in fact she has it.
What you do is you give her a little bit of probiotic yogurt everyday to replace the flora in her gut.
from the picture she is a very late fall baby! yes 3-4 weeks Keep this Tilly baby warm on a heating pad set on low. Place her in a PLASTIC tub not cardboard which can dry her out.

[mpetys]

How is Tilly doing today? Did you end up giving her meds? I hope everything is ok.

Michele in Tampa

[MargoBianca]

I am now almost positive it's pneumonia. Till's nose is clogged with what appears to be a yellowish/white film, and she is now very "squeaky"sounding when she breathes, she's still very active, and wants to eat, but I think it's becoming hard due to her nose being clogged. Someone please help. Should I just give her the meds that were prescribed to my dog? I feel so helpless, I have to do something now... it's not looking good. I've called all the rehabbers in my area...nothing. HELP !

If I find a vet will they not provide care due to me not having a license ?

[CritterMom]

Hon, can you get the Cipro you mentioned?

[CritterMom]

Also, you never answered what the kitten meds were...

You can call the area vets and try to get Baytril. Tell them that the baby is being transferred to a rehabber but they cannot take it for several days and you know it will not make it. *Maybe* someone will help you.

Baytril
SMX-TMP
Sulfatrim

Any of those. If you can get your hands on the cipro you mentioned, this will work too.

[MargoBianca]

I'm talking to petsmart, they are telling me to bring her in and they will see what they can do for her....

[mugzeezma]

I'm talking to petsmart, they are telling me to bring her in and they will see what they can do for her....
This should take care of things for now...
Cefpodoxime Proxetil 200 mg

--Grind up the tab and mix well with 1tsp (5ml) water or molasses or Karo syrup

--with a ONE CC syringe administer .04ccs that's POINT ZERO FOUR the first dose ONLY after feeding. Tonight and for 10 days administer .02ccs am and pm 12 hrs apart preferably on a FULL STOMACH. Give the baby yogurt once or twice a day to keep the gut flora up and running. Watch for diarrhea

[MargoBianca]

We just got back from Banfield, they have prescribed Tilly 0.02cc of Trimethp/Sulfamthzl twice a day, and also reccomended baby nose drops to help clear her nose up. She seems to be losing interest in her food, probably because it's difficult to breathe, I really hope she pulls through, say a little prayer for Tilly please. Thank you again for all of your help and support.

[CritterMom]

EXCELLENT!!

Be patient, but make very sure she both eats and stays hydrated. In fact, if she is losing interest in food, I would start to rehydrate her right now. The sniffles may have dehydrated her and that will make them stop eating. Go nice and slow, but either give her some pedialyte between her feedings, or you can make a homemade solution if you don't have it:

1 teaspoon salt
3 Tablespoons sugar
1 quart water

Warm it just like formula. And be insistent (but careful) because she needs hydration AND food.

[MargoBianca]

I just got her to eat her normal dosage, her little tummy is full. Good idea on the pedialyte, I will try to give her some in about an hour. I wish her nose would clear up, that way she wouldn't have to breathe through her mouth. She had just started that open mouth breathing this morning, a lot of people said thats a really bad sign. I just hope these ab kick in fast !

[Rescue04]

Glad to hear banfield was able to help.....they have been good to us as well. I hope meds kick in soon, they get so miserable......:grouphug

[CritterMom]

And of course, keep her nice and warm.

[mpetys]

We just got back from Banfield, they have prescribed Tilly 0.02cc of Trimethp/Sulfamthzl twice a day, and also reccomended baby nose drops to help clear her nose up. She seems to be losing interest in her food, probably because it's difficult to breathe, I really hope she pulls through, say a little prayer for Tilly please. Thank you again for all of your help and support.

Prayers and hugs and kisses for Tilly. I am so glad you were able to find some help. Thank you Banfield! Please keep us posted with how she is doing. She may have trouble with eating as it may be hard to suckle while having difficulty with congestion and breathing. Take it nice and slow and see if she will eat if even just "drop by drop". Let her know that she does not have to suckle but that you will place her formula on her lips or tongue, drop by drop. This is what I had to do with my Davey who was injured by a cat and was in really bad shape. Today he nibbled on a pecan. I had to hold it for him. It will take patience and I have faith that you will do all you can for this little girl. You have stuck by her with love and care. A lot of people would never have worried about an orphaned squirrel.

Michele in Tampa

[Kelly Brady]

Hi Margo B

I have been keeping up on your thread and saying a prayer for little Tilly.

Way to go Dayton girl !!!! I am originally from Miamisburg. Moved here to Florida when I was 20. Still go back once a year and still love going home.:D

You are doing a wonderful job with this little one. Bless you for all of your effort to save Tilly. I only have squirrels around my house but will tell everyone I know to take their animals to Banfield. Thank goodness they helped.

[MargoBianca]

Today is Tilly's second day of AB. Her nose continues to be clogged, so therefore she is having to breathe through her mouth, you can tell this is wearing the poor thing out. This morning at her 6 am feeding she was just as lively as ever, and ready to eat. However at her 9 am feeding it was a completely different story. I got her out of her box waiting for her to wake up and start trying to squirm out of my hands like she usually does, and the poor girl just layed there. She had nothing to do with the formula, so I tried to get a little Pedialyte in her. I'm so sad for her, just trying to keep her warm and comfortable.Poor Tilly is such a fighter, please say a little prayer.

[CritterMom]

Go to a place that sells supplies for babies and buy one of those bulb syringes that are used to suck snot out of a babies nose and do that for Tilly. It will make her a LOT more comfortable and may solve the open mouthed breathing issue if you keep after it.

[Kelly Brady]

When my Peanut had a very bad fall last year, he fell on his nose. He was in bad shape and also mouth breathing. Vet told me to take moist (not wet) warm cloth and wipe the nose as often as I could and use a bulb syringe like critter mom suggested. The warm cloth really seemed to help him to clear debris and open up the nose then I would use the syringe to suck out the mucous. That was on a large adult squirrel (that was a real treat)

Good luck. Prayers for little Tilly:grouphug

[MargoBianca]

Thank you so much, I was wondering if I could use one of those. I'm heading to Walgreens now. I feel so bad for her, I really pray she pulls through this. She just seems so weak now :(

[CritterMom]

And remember to keep him hydrated. He needs extra in addition to the formula. That can really make a big difference in how they feel.

[MargoBianca]

I was wondering if one of those would work... Heading to Walgreens now :) Thank you so much for the suggestion. She just seems so weak now, I pray she pulls through. She keeps moving off of her heating pad, is this a bad sign ?

[MargoBianca]

I just tried using the bulb, I couldn't get anything out.. Her Fox Valley formula just came in, and I can't even get her to eat any :( If she refuses to eat her food, should I just keep giving her the Pedialyte?

[mpetys]

I just tried using the bulb, I couldn't get anything out.. Her Fox Valley formula just came in, and I can't even get her to eat any :( If she refuses to eat her food, should I just keep giving her the Pedialyte?

As long as she is warm. Have you tried thinning out the formula? I ask this because my Davey at first readily took in his rehydrating fluids. When I switched to the formula, he balked at it a bit. I thinned it out to more of a watery consistency and then he would take it. As he took each feeding, I would put less and less water til he is now eating regular strength.

I had just called my sister to ask her what to do for a baby(human) with a stopped up nose and mouth breathing and she had suggested the bulb syringe. I have no kids so i had to tell her I was asking for a squirrel. I got on an see that others had given you that advice!

Are you still taking her into a steamy bathroom? Does that help any?

Michele in Tampa

[CritterMom]

Gently wipe her nose with a warm, wet cloth and keep trying with the syringe, and keep giving rehydration. She needs to eat but if she won't and WILL take the pedialyte, then give her that. Be careful and go slow - drop by drop - she will be easier to aspirate now.

If she is dehydrated she will not want to eat.

[MargoBianca]

I'm so upset, she can't even hold her head up anymore... she's so weak :( this isn't good... very slow drawn out deep breaths ...

[MargoBianca]

Tilly has just passed away while I was holding her. Thank you all so much for your help and support. She's in a better place now, it just hurts to see her go.

[Tawnya]

I am so sorry.... You did everything you could to help her. Please just know she knows you did your best! You and Tilly are in my thoughts and prayers....

[mpetys]

Oh MargoBianca,

I am so very sorry to hear this. Thank you for the care you gave this baby. You did everythinig you could to help her. I could hear and feel your concern and worry for this baby from the very start. I wish that things could have turned out differently. Please take comfort in knowing that you gave this baby a chance. You saved her from the fate of being left to predators. You gave her warmth, love, comfort and care. Even with her eventual outcome, she was a very lucky baby to have ended up in your care.

Michele in Tampa

[CritterMom]

Aw, I am SO sorry. These little ones have so few reserves; when they get sick they need the RIGHT meds immediately - and if you aren't a vet or a rehabber, who has that?

They drop into your life out of the blue - you are walking along, normal as all get out, and BOOM - you have a baby and it needs help and you start to scramble, with ALL of the odds against you. Vets won't help, rehabbers won't call back - many of us have been in that helpless position. You tried so hard for Tilly...sometimes nothing you do will change that outcome.

RIP, little Tilly, and :grouphug to you.

[pappy1264]

I am very sorry for your loss. RIP sweet little angel.

[Kelly Brady]

Bless your heart, you sure did try hard to save precious Tilly.
She left you with lots of love in her heart for helping her.

Thoughts are with you:grouphug