Dangles needs help

[ella]

I have a 1yr old grey squirrel i have been rehabbing, he has done very well, when i found him both his back legs just dangled. I had him using one leg really good, he is healthy good appetite, very loving and trusting with me. he still is doing good gets around the house plays ,but just recently he started chewing his toes, other than this he is great, took him to vet he has a spinal injury, have been giving him neurotin, but it workws for qa little while, but i have to find some way so he doesnt chew on his bk feet, not sure what to do next, please help if there is some thing i can do for him, he is doing well except for this problem which i need some advice on . thank you Dangles said

[farrelli]

Self mutilation is a very serious issue and you are right to be very concerned. You will have to watch him like a hawk. Some people use some kind of supplements which they think helps a little, but many people use cones and vests to prevent the chewing. Some have to wear them forever, some just for short periods when they actively chew.

Here's a thread for cones:

http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?35890-Moose

Here's a thread with another chewer with a vest suggestion:

http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?46638-Won-t-stop-chewing-on-his-injured-foot

Here's another thread with a vest, starting at post 22:

http://thesquirrelboard.com/forums/showthread.php?40232-Squirrel-with-a-paralyzed-leg-need-amputated-Pro-s-Con-s

Can you tell us what his diet is?

[ella]

he eats all vegetables , yogurt, henry blocks, very good appetite. I just went and bought a temporary fix i got a wrist band it fits under vhis arms and goes down near his feet going to try this for tonight till i can make him something to morrow thats easier to get on and off. hope it works for a bit, it doesnt seem to bother him he is out running and climbing, he is very strong in his upper body, will let you know if it worked thanks :grouphug

[Rhapsody]

If nothing else, try the YUK gel that taste awful and place it on his feet --it might help.
http://www.squirrelsandmore.com/yuk-anti-lick-gel.html

[czarina]

He is chewing his toes because of the nerve damage, and it is very painful. The vet may need to increase the Neurotin. How long has he been on it? Also, check with the vet and see about adding either Meloxicam or Tramadol, both have anti-inflamatory properties and are also pain relievers.
Another good medication foe neuropathy is Lyrica. Not sure of its safety in squirrel, but it has been extremely effective, but it also might make him sleepy untill he would get adjusted, and its pricey. But you can ask the vet about it.

Keeping you and Dangles in my prayers. :Love_Icon:grouphug:Love_Icon:grouphug:Love_Icon:g rouphug:Love_Icon

[ella]

he has been on neurotin for about 2 wks . this just all stated then, it seems like he bothers it in the night time only, will talk to my vet tomprrow, i am trying to make a vest for him at night to wear thank you will keep you updated :thumbsup