Random Question About Syringes

[eshepard]

So random question- the boys are both over to FV 20:50 100%. Stools are great, eating great, clear pee. I have been calculating their weight to formula amounts with the 5-8% rule (which they usually consume about 6% before acting like they don't want anymore and have decent bellies on them without being overly full) They are currently at 98g and 100g as of tonights last feeding. It is amazing how fast they are growing!

But my question is at what age do you all feel it is safe to upgrade to 5cc a syringe? I am currently using 1cc and 3cc syringes for their food because I feel like I can control it better. To be quite honest, I have the best control with the 3cc syringe. Not a super huge fan of the 1cc because it feels so flimsy and they boys hate it because the food, for them at least, doesn't come quick enough. I know with the miracle nipples it prevents a lot of the aspiration issues, but I don't know if the nipples will be enough for the surprising suction these little ones possess, holy cow can they suck! I just feel bad having to change the syringes out so often on them when they are feeding, but I also do not want to have one suck up too much and accidentally aspirate themselves. I always keep my fingers on the syringe and plunger? (not sure what it is technically called, lol) to make sure I can slow them down if need be, but they get so frantic between syringe changes that I honestly feel bad for them. I guess they are afraid the food is going to run out or something. Just wanted some guidance on this portion of young squirrel raising. Thanks in advance!
Elizabeth

[cassgrimm]

It's recommended that you get a dry weight on your little ones first thing in the morning prior to their first daily feeding. When weighed post-feedings, you are also getting the weight of the formula they just consumed and a belly full of liquids is heavier than you think.

It is never recommended to use a 5cc syringe with a squirrel at any time nor for any reason. Personally, once a baby is taking more than 10ml of formula per feeding, I switch to a 3cc. However, it should be noted that there are many, many rehabbers with many, many years of experience that never feed with anything bigger than a 1cc syringe. Once you go beyond that, you are increasing the potential for aspiration - especially if the baby is over-enthusiastic about eating and/or is prone to latching and sucking with vigor.

Hope that helps!

[HRT4SQRLS]

I never go to a 5cc syringe. I have some but don’t use them. The ONE time I used it was a train wreck. By the time they are taking large volumes of formula, they are also sucking with the force of a Hoover vacuum and will undoubtedly aspirate. It just delivers too much formula.

[eshepard]

Perfect, thank you all~ I have seen some random videos with people using these giant things and it got me thinking... figured I would ask the pros on here. Appreciate it! Side note, both boys have their eyes open as of today! And they have started kind of walking not just crawling, so adorable!