Advice Needed for Critical Baby Squirrel Condition [Archive]

View Full Version : Advice Needed for Critical Baby Squirrel Condition

allerlei

04-24-2011, 11:28 PM

Dear Forum Experts,

A couple of days ago, a little baby squirrel (estimated age between 6 and 7 weeks) approached us while we were looking at a property. We took him with us so we could care for him, but it turned out to be one emotional rollercoaster for us. The internet provides wildly contradictory survival tips for these little ones and I am just utterly confused. In the following, I will describe how I handled the ongoing and difficult situation and a timeline of the squirrel’s eating habits/behavior since the moment we picked him up.

Thursday evening:
We found him and cuddled him up in a warm jacket.
When we arrived at home, he was angry and snarled at us (probably because of the bumpy way home).
We mixed an “emergency” solution of salt, sugar and water which he drank enthusiastically.
We offered him waltnuts and sunflower seeds, we he accepted with a snarl.
Important note: I always had the feeling he never actually ate the nuts ands eeds, but simply shredded them... he does the same thing to this date. I read that without their molars, Squirrels are not able to eat solid food.
We did not have a heating pad yet, but I assumed since he looked quite old that he could sustain his body heat himself.

Friday:
He could be handled without gloves and no longer snarled at us, but became rather trusting.
I continued to give him the water solution which he took.
We put him back into his box over night, he didn’t appear to be in a weakened state,

Saturday.
When I took him out in the morning for some water and food, he already appeared weak and I noticed his body was rather cold. I put him back into the box and went for a bike ride.
I checked on him upon arrival and he was no longer responsive like a healthy sqirrel. We decided to bring him to a wildlife rehab, but unfortunately because of eastern, the were closed. So we drove to the humane society, but once I heard them mention “putting him down” and “hopefully someone will pick him up tomorrow” I asked if I could have some utensils and try to save him on my own.
We were handed a nursing bottle, syringe and some kitten formula.
On or way back we bought a heating pad and Pedialyte.
After 1h on the heating pad, he came back to life as if nothing had happened. I was so infinitely thankful and happy for that since I have already told myself he is going to die.

Sunday:
I was in shock: In the morning, I found him totally unresponsive, I actually thought he was already dead. We immediately started to give him formula very slowly and placed him back on the heating pad. After about 4 mL and half an hour under its towel, he came back out... another miracle! Then, he enthusiastically drank another 4 mL of formula and did so much better.
But after this short high, he now refuses (with noises and his whole body) to drink anymore formula, not even Pedialyte. When given solid food, he only shreds them and doesn’t seem to swallow any of it.
Now I have reached a point where I really need some external help from you!
What could be my next steps so he wil survive and can one day be released again?

Additional information:
His hind legs appear to be dragging at times, as though he doesn’t or can’t use them. But that is not always the case. Since last night, his nose is bleeding every now and then, but not very strongly. However, he has not experienced a fall in our care. His box is very small (height is only 10 in).
He curls up awkwardly, not on his side but in an upright position, appearing very weak.
His feces appear to be normal: soft dark pellets.
He pees on his own. I tried to stimulate him, but it only worked once, in which case he peed immediately.
He is very thin. When I massage him, I can feel every single bone.

I know I have done some major mistakes, e.g. not placing him immediately on a heating pad. Even though he seems to do much better now and is quite active, I have still some important questions. If you could answer them in a manner so even a bloody beginner like myself can execute them, I would be deeply thankful! Kind regards, Corinna

http://i54.tinypic.com/mb517c.jpg

http://i51.tinypic.com/35hmerq.jpg

Questions:
What might be the cause of his nose bleeding, and how can I stop it? It just started again.
Based on my pictures provided:
How old is he?
Does he still need formula, if yes, how can I “force” it into him without being hurtful?
How often and how much formula should I be feeding him?
How do I know when I fed him too much? If he refuses formula, is he simply full or does he no longer want it?
Can/should he already eat solid foods? If yes, what should I give him? Nuts? Dried fruits?
What other life-saving things should I do in general?

UDoWhat

04-25-2011, 12:17 AM

Ok, Here we go. Yes this baby must still be on formula. I would say he is about 7 weeks or so. He most likely is only shredding food not eating yet. I would not give any nuts yet. Maybe a piece of apple. He will need to be on formula 4 times a day at least in the beginning to get him strong and gain weight. He must have taken a fall out of nest and hit his face or head/ nose, I am guessing. Keep him calm and quiet as possible to help stop bleeding. I will post this now but will return with links to other sections for help you will need. Keep him warm. Heating paid on low half on/ half off his box so he can move on and off heat if he needs to .

Marty, Licensed Maryland Master Wildlife Rehabilitator

madtowntom

04-25-2011, 12:22 AM

Questions:
What might be the cause of his nose bleeding, and how can I stop it? It just started again.
Well given the nose bleed and lower body weakness it is possible he fell before you found him; however, it is a bit unusual for it to start 3 days after you found him – so let’s not worry about that right now. Probably need to get him to a rehabber ASAP

Based on my pictures provided:

First make sure he stays warm – heating pad under half of the box you have him in set on low – this is important! Keep a t-shirt of fleece materials in with him to snuggle in

How old is he?
Probably 7-8 weeks

Does he still need formula, if yes, how can I “force” it into him without being hurtful?
Yes he definitely still needs formula, he will die without it! What type of kitten formula are you using? Are you feeding with a syringe? I think you just need to be persistent until he gets the hang of it – not forceful, but just SLOWLY dribble a little formula/pedialyte into his mouth and wait until he swallows. He will need formula better suited for him such as Fox Valley – but you need to order that.

How often and how much formula should I be feeding him?

Can you weigh him? You can feed him 4-6 cc every 3-4 hours for now

How do I know when I fed him too much? If he refuses formula, is he simply full or does he no longer want it?
Try to get at least 4 cc in him each feeding – he probably needs more that that long term. You could also try giving him a couple of cc of pedialyte in between the formula feeding to assure hydration.

Can/should he already eat solid foods? If yes, what should I give him? Nuts? Dried fruits?
What other life-saving things should I do in general?
He is at an age where he will start eating solids but needs more nutrition than that can provide. Ultimately, he needs a rodent block, but focus on getting him to eat formula now.
If you can find an experienced rehabber that would probably be best

EDIT:
....and follow the instructions that Marty is going to provide you! She be wise!

4skwerlz

04-25-2011, 12:32 AM

You have a kind heart to try to save this baby. The bleeding from the nose could be a lot of things, some of them minor (fell from the nest); some of them very serious (internal injuries from a predator, or maggots). I am posting the first basics of baby care below. It's very important to follow these instructions...they must be kept warm at all times; they must be rehydrated before feeding. There's not much else you can do tonight, Easter night, unless there's a rehabber nearby. But if he makes it until tomorrow morning, some of our experienced rehabbers can try to figure out if this baby needs medicine or vet care. He must be kept warm at all times! (He's really adorable, and my prayers go out to you that he will be okay.... Whatever happens, bless your hearts for trying.)

1. Warm the Baby (never feed a cold squirrel!)
Quick Methods:
-Cup the baby in your hands or under your shirt next to your skin.
-Fill a plastic bottle with very warm water. Wrap in a cloth, place next to baby, and cover him. Reheat every 2 hours.
-“Rice Buddy”: Fill a sock with 1 cup of rice or dried beans and microwave for 30 seconds. Place next to baby and cover him. Reheat every 2 hours.

2. [b] Find a Box or Container[b]
A shoebox will do for small babies. A baby that can walk will need a larger box with a lid (with holes). Put a clean baby blanket, flannel shirt, or piece of fleece in the bottom of the box. No towels or terrycloth. Squirrels can get tangled in the loops. Place baby on the material and cover him with one flap. If you have a heating pad, turn it on low and place it under half of the box (not IN the box!) so baby can move away if he gets too warm. You can use the plastic bottle or rice buddy described above, but these are only temporary methods until you get a heating pad, since they must be reheated every 2 hours and won't keep baby warm all night.
NOTE: Monitor his temperature so he doesn’t chill or overheat. His feet should feel warm to the touch.

Note: If the baby is injured, is having trouble breathing, has fly eggs on his fur, or is very skinny or dehydrated, he needs emergency care by an experienced rehabber or vet.

3. Rehydrate the Baby

Most babies are dehydrated when you find them and must be rehydrated before you can feed them. Never feed formula or food of any kind to a dehydrated baby!

How to Check for Dehydration
Pinch the skin on the back of his neck. If it doesn’t spring back immediately, the baby is dehydrated. If the pinched skin stays up like a tent for more than a second, the baby is badly dehydrated. Other signs of dehydration: pale grayish gums, dry mouth, sunken eyes, whites around eyes showing, rough spiky fur, dry scaly skin.
NOTE: If baby is badly dehydrated, he will need subcutaneous fluids, which can only be given by a rehabber or vet.

[b] Supplies You Will Need: [b]
--Pedialyte (any flavor)*
--Plastic syringes (1 cc size; no needles. Ask the pharmacist to get these for you) An eyedropper can also work.
These are available at most drugstores.

*If you can’t find Pedialyte at the store, here is a recipe for homemade Pedialyte:

1 tsp salt (teaspoon)
3 Tbsp sugar (tablespoon)
1 quart warm water
Mix all ingredients in warm water. Store in refrigerator.

How to Prepare the Pedialyte
Use a plastic syringe (with or without a nipple). Never use pet nursers or doll bottles. They will choke the baby. Fill a coffee mug with hot water. Fill the syringe with Pedialyte and place it in the mug for a couple of minutes. Squirt a drop on the inside of your wrist to make sure the liquid isn’t too hot. It should feel barely warm on your skin.

Proper Position
A tiny baby should be held upright in your hand. A baby with fur can lie on a flat surface on his stomach. A baby that can walk can be held upright or he can drink sitting up. Hold the syringe so the tip points UP to the baby’s mouth and the handle is down. Don’t let the baby get cold. Keep him wrapped up while he eats.

How to Feed Fluids
Place the syringe tip on the baby’s lips (from the side) and squeeze out one drop for him to taste. Don’t squirt a steady stream. Let him swallow one drop before squeezing more. GO SLOW! It sometimes takes a feeding or two for them to catch on. Hairless babies are fed drop by drop. With older babies (once they catch on) you can squeeze slowly for one second, wait for him to swallow, then squeeze more.

If fluids dribble out his mouth or come out his nose, you are going too fast. Stop and tilt the baby’s head down so the fluid drains out (support his head and neck like you would a human baby). Then wipe his nose and mouth with a tissue. Start over, slower. NOTE: There is now a chance your baby will develop aspiration pneumonia from inhaling fluid in his lungs. This is fatal. Please contact a rehabber or vet, or the people at The Squirrel Board, for assistance.

allerlei

04-25-2011, 12:42 AM

Thank you all so much for your quick responses!

I just tried to feed him and he actually drank 2 cc of formula on his own. After I tried to fill up my syringe (1 cc) the third time, he refused to take anymore. Should I just keep on feeding him (even though he no longer seemed to swallow)?

Should I also feed him regularly with formula during the night in this critical time?

We got a can of KMR kitten formula (not the powder) but its not much. What do you think about scalded milk for squirrels (since cows are also vegetarians, whereas kittens and puppies are not)?

I am taking my responibility very personal and am already in kind-of depressive state, since I feel so helpless about the situation. He seems perfectly fine in one moment, but then acts weired in the next and I dont know what happened in between. Thanks for helping me out here...

mugzeezma

04-25-2011, 12:47 AM

First off be careful where you take this little fellow as far as rehab...Eastern grays are considered non native and he may be destroyed. I am not totally certain about all of this but wanted to give you a heads up just in case.

kitten formula is high in protein low in fat
we recommend Fox Valley nutrition 20/50

http://foxvalleynutrition.com/prod/details.asp?CID=3&PLID=1

for nipples the silicone works well at this age

http://www.squirrelsandmore.com/product/589/mothering-silicone-nipples-by-classic.htm

introduce slowly
25% increase to water every other feeding

75% water 25% formula
75% 25%
50 50
50 50
25 75
25 75
0 100%formula

add a dab of whole fat yogurt to help digestion

Also a high quality rat block is important along with an assortment of vegetables fruits and greens.
KayTee FortiDiet PUS (in the blue bag) is easy to find in most pet stores.
Squirrels do have molars but the are set far back in the jaw. They do eat like side discharge lawnmowers...you'll get used to it :D messy critters

nose bleed may be from fall maybe from startling and lunging and hitting his face....they can do that .

What type of enclosure is he in?

naturelady1

04-25-2011, 12:47 AM

Hi and welcome:Welcome You have come to the best place there is for help for your little one!! Lots of knowledge and help here!!

Until one of the rehabbers gets on, take a minute to read this link
http://www.thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=11782, which explains emergency car for a little one.
Keeping your little one warm and well nourished is the best thing you can do right now.:Love_Icon

Yes your little one still need formula!!!Do not use the nursing bottle. Use the syringe to feed and following the instructions in the above link. I would use something other than the kitten replacement milk, Most of us here use Fox Valley formula, which is formulated for squirrels. Until you get some, or until you find a rehabber, you can use this formula mix kindly posted by one of our experienced squirrel members. Make the formula warm, do not heat in microwave, and make sure baby is warm when you feed him.

"In the meantime you will need to feed your baby a home-made formula, but please for the sake of the baby, do not feed this for more than 4-7 days. It's a great temporary replacer milk but it lacks certain vitamins and minerals that the babies need to thrive. This recipe will ensure that your baby will be well nourished until your order from Fox Valley arrives. Jackie (Jackie in Tampa) has graciously offered her temporary replacement formula recipe.
Jackie's Goat Milk Recipe
1 cup goats milk
1/3 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup dannon all natural vanilla yogurt

Mix well and keep in a covered plastic or glass container in the refrigerator. Replace after 48 hours.
Please note, this website has several links that still mention Esbilac and we need to keep these links active as they do contain excellent information so please keep in mind that Fox Valley is now the formula of choice for raising baby squirrels."

There is a weight/feeding ratio for babies. Can you get a weight on your squirrel? I can't find it atm, but am sure someone will be on soon to help. At this age I think at least 6 ccs X4 times a day, but am not positive.

I wouldn't worry about solids atm...need to stabilize first with formula and fluids.

If he is dehydrated, there will not be much or any urine output.

Your little one could have fallen and sustained a bump on his nose or a head injury. Keeping him in a quiet place away from any other animals and noise would help him feel less stressed.

Probably in the time it has taken me to write this, you have gotten some answers..good luck with your sweet little guy! And keep coming here...these folks are positively wonderful !!!!

UDoWhat

04-25-2011, 12:49 AM

Here the info is for the Fox Valley and also the Goat's Milk Formula.

Fox Valley 32/40

http://foxvalleynutrition.com/prod/d...p?CID=1&PLID=1
Nicholas P. Vlamis, President (Nick)
(800) 679-4666
If you call in your order and tell him you need it quickly he'll be happy to oblige or he can ship to you regular post 3-5 days and overnight. He's very nice and very easy to work with.
In the meantime you will need to feed your baby a home-made formula, but please for the sake of the baby, do not feed this for more than 4-7 days. It's a great temporary replacer milk but it lacks certain vitamins and minerals that the babies need to thrive. This recipe will ensure that your baby will be well nourished until your order from Fox Valley arrives.

Jackie (Jackie in Tampa) has graciously offered her temporary replacement formula recipe.
Jackie's Goat Milk Recipe
1 cup goats milk
1/3 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup dannon all natural vanilla yogurt

Mix well and keep in a covered plastic or glass container in the refrigerator. Replace after 48 hours.
__________________
I cut and copied this from another post by Milo's mom . Also having a storm here may need to log off, if I disapear, FYI.

Marty

mugzeezma

04-25-2011, 12:49 AM

naturelady1

04-25-2011, 12:53 AM

"We got a can of KMR kitten formula (not the powder) but its not much. What do you think about scalded milk for squirrels (since cows are also vegetarians, whereas kittens and puppies are not)?
I am taking my responibility very personal and am already in kind-of depressive state, since I feel so helpless about the situation. He seems perfectly fine in one moment, but then acts weired in the next and I dont know what happened in between. Thanks for helping me out here..."

Please do not feed him scaled milk...not good for squirrels!!

Your little one has been though many stressful things, needs to be quiet and resting for a bit...and fed! You will do just fine, you have found the right place for help, and many of these ppl will walk you through each step. Breathe, stay calm, you baby will be able to tell if you too are stressed.

mugzeezma

04-25-2011, 12:53 AM

and BTW

you are going to do just fine! You have plenty of help here at your fingertips.

and a big fat NO to scalded milk....super heating destroys the nutrients and proteins

Skipper

04-25-2011, 12:54 AM

IM NEW BUT GIVE IT FORMULA FROM AN EYE DROPPER AT ABOUT ROOM TEPERATURE BECAUSE I HAVE A BABY AND ITS BOUT 3 WEEKS OLD BUT YES IT DOES NEED MILK STILL AND PUT A PAIR OF SHORTS OR SHIRT IN WHERE IT STAYS SO IT CAN KNO 1 PERSON AS A PARENT INSTEAD OF ALOT OF PEOPLE AND WEN U FEED IT WRAP IT IN A TOWL.... IT WILL EAT BETTER....

Dear Forum Experts,

A couple of days ago, a little baby squirrel (estimated age between 6 and 7 weeks) approached us while we were looking at a property. We took him with us so we could care for him, but it turned out to be one emotional rollercoaster for us. The internet provides wildly contradictory survival tips for these little ones and I am just utterly confused. In the following, I will describe how I handled the ongoing and difficult situation and a timeline of the squirrel’s eating habits/behavior since the moment we picked him up.

Thursday evening:
We found him and cuddled him up in a warm jacket.
When we arrived at home, he was angry and snarled at us (probably because of the bumpy way home).
We mixed an “emergency” solution of salt, sugar and water which he drank enthusiastically.
We offered him waltnuts and sunflower seeds, we he accepted with a snarl.
Important note: I always had the feeling he never actually ate the nuts ands eeds, but simply shredded them... he does the same thing to this date. I read that without their molars, Squirrels are not able to eat solid food.
We did not have a heating pad yet, but I assumed since he looked quite old that he could sustain his body heat himself.

Friday:
He could be handled without gloves and no longer snarled at us, but became rather trusting.
I continued to give him the water solution which he took.
We put him back into his box over night, he didn’t appear to be in a weakened state,

Saturday.
When I took him out in the morning for some water and food, he already appeared weak and I noticed his body was rather cold. I put him back into the box and went for a bike ride.
I checked on him upon arrival and he was no longer responsive like a healthy sqirrel. We decided to bring him to a wildlife rehab, but unfortunately because of eastern, the were closed. So we drove to the humane society, but once I heard them mention “putting him down” and “hopefully someone will pick him up tomorrow” I asked if I could have some utensils and try to save him on my own.
We were handed a nursing bottle, syringe and some kitten formula.
On or way back we bought a heating pad and Pedialyte.
After 1h on the heating pad, he came back to life as if nothing had happened. I was so infinitely thankful and happy for that since I have already told myself he is going to die.

Sunday:
I was in shock: In the morning, I found him totally unresponsive, I actually thought he was already dead. We immediately started to give him formula very slowly and placed him back on the heating pad. After about 4 mL and half an hour under its towel, he came back out... another miracle! Then, he enthusiastically drank another 4 mL of formula and did so much better.
But after this short high, he now refuses (with noises and his whole body) to drink anymore formula, not even Pedialyte. When given solid food, he only shreds them and doesn’t seem to swallow any of it.
Now I have reached a point where I really need some external help from you!
What could be my next steps so he wil survive and can one day be released again?

Additional information:
His hind legs appear to be dragging at times, as though he doesn’t or can’t use them. But that is not always the case. Since last night, his nose is bleeding every now and then, but not very strongly. However, he has not experienced a fall in our care. His box is very small (height is only 10 in).
He curls up awkwardly, not on his side but in an upright position, appearing very weak.
His feces appear to be normal: soft dark pellets.
He pees on his own. I tried to stimulate him, but it only worked once, in which case he peed immediately.
He is very thin. When I massage him, I can feel every single bone.

I know I have done some major mistakes, e.g. not placing him immediately on a heating pad. Even though he seems to do much better now and is quite active, I have still some important questions. If you could answer them in a manner so even a bloody beginner like myself can execute them, I would be deeply thankful! Kind regards, Corinna

http://i54.tinypic.com/mb517c.jpg

http://i51.tinypic.com/35hmerq.jpg

Questions:
What might be the cause of his nose bleeding, and how can I stop it? It just started again.
Based on my pictures provided:
How old is he?
Does he still need formula, if yes, how can I “force” it into him without being hurtful?
How often and how much formula should I be feeding him?
How do I know when I fed him too much? If he refuses formula, is he simply full or does he no longer want it?
Can/should he already eat solid foods? If yes, what should I give him? Nuts? Dried fruits?
What other life-saving things should I do in general?

IM NEW BUT GIVE IT FORMULA FROM AN EYE DROPPER AT ABOUT ROOM TEPERATURE BECAUSE I HAVE A BABY AND ITS BOUT 3 WEEKS OLD BUT YES IT DOES NEED MILK STILL AND PUT A PAIR OF SHORTS OR SHIRT IN WHERE IT STAYS SO IT CAN KNO 1 PERSON AS A PARENT INSTEAD OF ALOT OF PEOPLE AND WEN U FEED IT WRAP IT IN A TOWL.... IT WILL EAT BETTER....

Skipper

04-25-2011, 01:01 AM

o and make sure it eats every 4 hours and wen it quits eatin is wen its done and it snarls bc id doesnt kno its parent sooo do the clothes thing i told u and ull b fine promise

4skwerlz

04-25-2011, 01:05 AM

Well, you've gotten a lot of responses. I hope it's not overwhelming you.

If you can "feel every bone" he's emaciated (and dehydrated)...this is always a very tough situation because you can't always wait til they're completely rehydrated to feed them...they need food quickly! Best with these babies is to give tiny amounts, a little at a time, throughout the night, like every 15 minutes....it will be a long night. A little rehydration (Pedialyte or the homemade formula...make sure it's very warm), a little formula (worry about getting the RIGHT formula tomorrow; but again, make sure it's very warm). Alternate between the two. KEEP HIM WARM AT ALL TIMES. In this condition he can't maintain his own body temp. Wrap him up well even when feeding or pottying him. Also, with these critical babies, keeping them close to your chest, near your heart, is also important. Do not let him get chilled no matter what.

UDoWhat

04-25-2011, 01:06 AM

He is at the stage (age) where he is, for lack of a better term "squirrely". He most likely is afraid of you but must also trust you for his care. He will calm down and realize his situation and soon be glad when you pick him up. Remember he is a baby. A week ago he was tucked in his nest with his mommy and siblings and now he is lost, starving, hurt, and must change everything he was learning. Poor sweet baby. :thankyou for taking him in. He needs your help and understanding. You are doing great and I think you have enough info until morning. I will read back over the recent posts and see if all ??? are answered for tonight. Will check back later to see what other info you need.

Marty, Licensed Maryland Master Rehabilitator

naturelady1

04-25-2011, 01:07 AM

I found this posted on this thread, which is another good one for you to read
http://www.thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8889

Quote:
Originally Posted by Milo Man's Mom
Here's another one I thought of..... Never feed a baby squirrel milk while lying on its back. The milk can fill their lungs and can eventually kill the baby.

Aspiration caused by feeding baby either too fast or in a improper position.

Your baby should be held as a baby squirrel would naturally feed belly down with the syringe held at an angle coming up from below or held slightly upright and again the syringe comes up to the mouth.

AND SLOWLY Remeber baby must be given a chance to swallow. With an eye dropper the method is to place one drop just inside the lips and let the baby swallow then repeat. With a syringe it's tap swallow, tap swallow pointing the syringe at a slight angle into the cheek and never directly down the throat. If the plunger gets stuck DO NOT just push harder. Clear it into a cup and then start over.

UDoWhat

04-25-2011, 01:14 AM

Kristal

04-25-2011, 01:16 AM

Oh my god, what an adorable little fuzzbutt! I am wondering what kind s/he is, too. I remember Jackie and IR saying that the Eastern Greys are tiny in Florida compared to up here, so maybe one of those? :thinking But hmmm, I see you are in California, and some forum members from there have said that the local Greys are even a bit bigger than the Fox Squirrels are... That is really one of the cutest baby squirrels that I have ever seen, though :Love_Icon I would love to know what kind!:dono

4skwerlz

04-25-2011, 01:22 AM

Don't worry about whipping cream right now....too rich for an emaciated baby. Maybe later, once he's stabilized.

allerlei

04-25-2011, 01:28 AM

allerlei

04-25-2011, 01:29 AM

Ok, and i wont add whipping cream : )

Kristal

04-25-2011, 01:37 AM

Thank you for your warm welcome!

I have just ordered Valley Fox online. Until it arrives, I will keep feeding the kitten formula and add some whipping cream.

To answer some of you questions:

I am keeping him in a cartboard box containing bedding, with the heating pad under one side, as has been described. He feels warm to the touch. He often looks out underneath the bedding, even crawling out and moving quite a bit.

I also feed him as described (not on his back) and slowly release formula, which he licks off the syringe while both of his hands hold it. However, once he refuses, he pushes back against me and I let him go.
I will do my best to rehydrate him over night!

I cannot thank you enough for your late-night advices! I hope he will make it!

Just to be careful, it would be better to use the goats milk formula that was posted (twice) earlier in this thread. There have been a LOT of problems with commercial kitten and puppy formulas, and the goats milk is tried, tested and true. I have four healthy, almost grown squirrels who came to me in a HORRIBLY emaciated and dehydrated state. They bounced back very well with the goats milk mix and never had any digestive problems while they were on it. :thumbsup

I really recommend that you use that until your fox valley formula arrives.

UDoWhat

04-25-2011, 01:42 AM

Just had time to check back over pics. He is darling. Will check back in a.m. Keep hydrating for tonight and getting some formula in him for nutrition. Will talk more about nose bleeding and any possible injuries later. Night, Night, for now. BTW, :Welcome to TSB.

Marty

allerlei

04-25-2011, 01:42 AM

UDoWhat

04-25-2011, 01:48 AM

Hello again. Is the clicking noise in his chest or in his nose. Put his chest up to your ear and listen to hear if it is in his chest or a nasal sound. If chest we will need to get antibiotics as soon as possible.

Marty

Edit; Goat milk is usually in grocery stores. Also health type stores. Can be fresh or canned or powdered. May need to call around and ask.

allerlei

04-25-2011, 01:57 AM

The klicking noise comes from his nose, not the chest. Perhaps its just dried blood.

And off to a long night....

Kristal

04-25-2011, 02:02 AM

Some clicking is fine and even normal. If it comes with lethargy and a fever and is deep in the chest (not the mouth or nose) it may be pneumonia. When you get the ingredients for the goats milk mix, be sure to get all natural yoghurt with live cultures. I think that Danone all natural or something is the recommended brand for the US.

Thank you for saving the fuzzbutt, and welcome to the board!:D

madtowntom

04-25-2011, 02:02 AM

The klicking noise comes from his nose, not the chest. Perhaps its just dried blood.

And off to a long night....

Thank you for your vigilance in caring for this darling baby. Many of us will be up feeding with you during the night:)

UDoWhat

04-25-2011, 02:03 AM

The klicking noise comes from his nose, not the chest. Perhaps its just dried blood.

And off to a long night....
OK, Better. We can deal with this in the morning .(Or later this morning it looks like.)

mpetys

04-25-2011, 02:45 AM

You're getting lots of great advice! I just want to make sure you saw the advice about the rice buddy in post #4: -“Rice Buddy”: Fill a sock with 1 cup of rice or dried beans and microwave for 30 seconds. Place next to baby and cover him. Reheat every 2 hours. This is one of the simplest things to do for your baby that will have great impact. I wrapped my rice buddy in a piece of fleece fabric or t-shirt to make sure there was something to buffer the heat of the rice so it wasn't too warm. Any babies that I have had that were sick or single babies (no siblings to cuddle with), loved the rice buddy.

mugzeezma

04-25-2011, 08:46 AM

Ok, is goat's milk available in every supermarket?

I think there is another issue. When i listen closely, I can hear a klicking noise each time he breathes. I am not sure if this comes from the blood in his nose. I havent seen any formula or Pedialyte bubbling out of his nose. What could this be?

Could be a sign of aspiration but don't go there yet.
Aspiration occurs when fluid gets into their lungs. It can cause deadly pneumonia.
this baby sounds like he may have a lot going on as far as injuries so be careful and stress him as little as possible keeping him away from loud noises kids and other animals.
Many times babies when learning to feed from mechanical means will blow milk out of their noses.
First of all feed baby semi vertically lying on his tummy or leaning forward with the syringe pointed slightly upward and the nose slightly downward. This forces them to suck fluid rather than have it forced....NEVER FEED LYING ON HIS BACK. that's not natural for a squirrel. and can cause aspiration.
Go very slowly
We recommend 1cc syringes.
For now you can get a 1cc dosing syringe from the pharmacy.
Order O'ring syringes from Chris's Squirrels and more site that I sent you. Cheap syringes get sticky and O'ring are the best and smoothest action with the best fluid control.
If you think baby has taken a bad swallow lay him head down and dab his nose with a napkin or highly absorbent tissue. if you have a bulb syringe you can also suck out his nose.
Unless he begs for more wait awhile before feeding again.

~Take your time~

If he is truly aspirated he will not eat and become lethargic....NOT A GOOD SIGN...let us know ASAP

astra

04-25-2011, 09:13 AM

all the important info has already been given.
Just a couple of thoughts:

1. have you checked if he is hydrated enough?... I think, you mentioned (sorry, if I misunderstood - was really in a rush going through posts) that he wasn't eating eagerly?... when everything else is ok, dehydration is often the cause. The reason I thought about it is his fur - looks a bit spiky, not smooth. Very often that is the sign that he is dehydrated, even if mildly.
Usually, babies are given pedialyte for the first few feedings only to hydrate them.
If he is dehydrated, even mildly, he might not eat well.
You could try alternating formula and pedialyte, just NEVER MIX THE TWO TOGETHER!

2. yes, right now all he needs is formula. Let him eat it for as long as he will take it, don't wean him, allow him wean himself.
The first solid food should be a rodent block - that will ensure that he will gladly eat it for the rest of his indoor life. It's crucial as without good blocks daily, he won't get all the nutrients he needs (and squirrels have very specific nutritional needs) and might become very ill, even fatally.
So, when the time for solids comes, give him a block.
He might not eat it right away, will nibble it, crumble, stash it, play with it etc etc, but eventually, he'll eat it.

Sorry, if all of that has already been mentioned here (again, didn't get to read all posts).

He is ADORABLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:)

allerlei

04-25-2011, 10:41 AM

Good morning!

Unfortunately, we do not have rice in the house at the moment, but I will get it later!

I dont know what happened over night but:

His nose bleeding seemed to stop.

I dont hear the clicking noise anzmore.

He now totally refuses formula.. I mean totally. With his whole body. He squeaks and pushes and is very unhappy.

When I offered him Pedialyte, he would not take it, only the water-sugar-salt solution I made myself.

Because I was worried about his food intake, i offered him a quarter of a walnut, which he ate completely, without shredding a piece!! I then offered him an almond which he partially ate, but then made attemps to bury it with his hands!

Do you think he wants to be and adult now and does not accept me as his mother? He is highly active, quick and attentive and seems to do fine.

I will get the rodent blocks as soon as I can!

CritterMom

04-25-2011, 10:53 AM

No, no - he may have a mind of his own but he still needs formula!

Try heating it up more. Some of them like it almost hot and will refuse it otherwise. If that doesn't work, try to dip the tip of the syringe in pancake syrup or something similar so he tastes the sweet when it goes in his mouth - that may help.

It takes them a while even when really young to get the hang of things, and this little guy is older and faced with something that isn't mama. Be patient and play with the temps. You can start giving him blocks to chew on but he needs his formula for quite a while longer.

astra

04-25-2011, 11:00 AM

When I offered him Pedialyte, he would not take it, only the water-sugar-salt solution I made myself.
well, that's just home-made pedialyte,:) so should be fine.
Did you do a pinch test?...to see how hydrated he is?
If he takes it, maybe, keep giving it to him (maybe, he is mildly dehydrated?)
Just don't give it for longer than 24hr !

Do you think he wants to be and adult now and does not accept me as his mother? He is highly active, quick and attentive and seems to do fine.

I will get the rodent blocks as soon as I can! :thumbsup

I don't think it's about him wanting to be an adult necessarily, although, like all children, they want to be "big boys". Nor is it about accepting you or not accepting you. Generally, squirrels can be very fussy (some fussier than others), showing their individual personalities early on.:)

As for the formula...
how warm/cold is it?... sometimes, they won't take it if it is cold for them.
Even room temp might feel cold for them.
Make sure it's warm, warm enough ( you might have to try different degrees of warmth and see which one will work).
Often, what ppl do is that they fill up a few syringes with formula and keep them in warm water (or smth along those lines), and/or they keep the container with formula in a water bath or smth that would keep it warm for the duration of feeding (e.g. keep it in a larger container with hot water in it etc).
Sometimes, some like it very warm. Doesn't and shouldn't be hot (burning hot), but significantly warm, almost hot (but not burning)

Kristal

04-25-2011, 12:17 PM

No, no - he may have a mind of his own but he still needs formula!

....

It takes them a while even when really young to get the hang of things, and this little guy is older and faced with something that isn't mama. .....

Yea, s/he looks like a little baby-juvie, but is SO tiny. I am very curious what species this is :thinking

mugzeezma

04-25-2011, 12:41 PM

Yea, s/he looks like a little baby-juvie, but is SO tiny. I am very curious what species this is :thinking
Eastern Gray
juvenile

Another plan can be to offer a small bowl of formula soaked rat block...only offer a tiny amount and keep on trying.

is he taking the pedialyte by syringe?

Is he taking ANYTHING by syringe?

He's an older baby so hang in there for him and keep pushing fluids often....every 1/2 hour if need be. Try doing it in a darkened quiet room and swaddle him like a burrito with just his head poking out.

Kristal

04-25-2011, 02:39 PM

Yea, I was thinking that maybe s/he looks so small because of sitting hunched up like that. Sure does seem tiny, though :)

allerlei

04-25-2011, 03:08 PM

Hello,

I just got 2 cc of formula into him against his will, but then I stopped. I made the formula really warm but he still refuses it. I think he refuses everything coming from a syringe.

Would you suggest 2 cc every hour if this keeps up? I dont want to over-stress him by constantly handling when he doesnt even enjoy it. I hope he will get finally used to it.

His pee is clear, not yellow in color and his poop is also healthy. His skin on the back does not stay tented as well, but I can still fill his bones. I guess he does not fatten up over a couple of nights.

mugzeezma

04-25-2011, 03:13 PM

mugzeezma

04-25-2011, 03:14 PM

how are his hind legs doing?

UDoWhat

04-25-2011, 09:40 PM

Hi, :wave123 You are the boss. In the wild he would NOT be on his own yet and would still be nursing from his mom. Believe me she would put him in his place and no funny business about not nursing. You are mom now. Sometimes if babies are not fully hydrated they will not want to eat. I would offer some pedialyte or homemade or even better just some plain warm water between feedings. If you have a kitchen scale that weighs in grams we could get an approximate feeding range. The range for feeding is between 5-7% of his body weight 4-5 or more times a day.(Usually by this age we would be starting to back off feedings but since he is/was emaciated we should keep feeding a little more often. He seems to have been without is mom for a few days or so.) One reason he may not be eating much at a time is he is not use to having to eat alot all at once. In his nest with his mom he would nurse some, sleep, nurse some more, sleep, nurse a little more, you get the picture. You will want to get a scale to track his weight gain. I believe you can get one at Target/Walmart for $20 or so. For now I think I would hold off on giving all nuts. Your little one has a strong will. Believe me if you give him nuts that is ALL he will want. Like giving human kids soda pop and chips for every meal. Hope all is well.

Marty, Licensed Maryland Master Wildlife Rehabilitator

allerlei

04-26-2011, 03:13 PM

Hello everyone!

Sorry for my late reply but I needed to catch up on lots of sleep!

As of now, he is doing really well. I feed him frequently, and each time he seems to become calmer, although after 2 cc it is impossible for me to go on (he starts to drool out the milk). So I offer him a small piece of walnut after some meals and then he suckles on the water solution bottle all by himself. His tummy looks much more rounded now and I think he is gaining weight.

We do have a scale, however, we are in the process of moving and all our stuff is in a container. But I will see if I can get one soon!

Thank you all again for your dedication! I will keep you posted on how he is doing over the next weeks (hopefully that will be the case).

Kind regards,
Corinna

allerlei

04-26-2011, 03:15 PM

Oh, and I forgot: His hindlegs are doing just fine! I think he just didnt have the strength at times to hold them up. He is very activ and loves to climb and run around.

mugzeezma

04-26-2011, 05:40 PM

Oh, and I forgot: His hindlegs are doing just fine! I think he just didnt have the strength at times to hold them up. He is very activ and loves to climb and run around.

You may have just created a monster!...that is..a normal healthy squirrel :D

It's funny how fast they will trust

SquirrelNut

04-27-2011, 03:45 AM

Hello!:Welcome

I am approximately 25 miles North of you on the Peninsula. I am near SFO-San Francisco Airport.

If you have any questions or just want to talk "squirrel," please feel free to contact me!:poke

Good luck!

Thanks!mjs

P.S. I just tried sending you a PM and it was not working?? Not sure if PM's are still blocked or if you are not receiving them by choice? Feel free to send me a PM.