The beginning of aspiration pneumonia?

[Jsherrock]

We found a baby squirrel in our yard 2 days ago and have been trying to reunite the squirrel with the mom with no success, unfortunately.

I believe the squirrel is 4-6 weeks old. It weights 82 g and we have been feeding 4 ccs of Fox Valley 20/50 every 4 hours. Tonight I noticed a slight clicking sound when he was sleeping. Otherwise, the squirrel is eating well, not lethargic. I have ordered Baytril to have on hand but it will not arrive in time if this really is pneumonia. I would appreciate any advice you can give. I have 500mg of Cephalexin on hand if that helps.

Thanks so much.

[CritterMom]

They make lots of little mouth noises, especially when they sleep. Aspiration pneumonia is a rhythmic click with every breath, coming from the CHEST, accompanied by loss of appetite and lethargy. The click sound is breath being forced through mucous buildup in the chest. You description doesn't sound like that. Hold him up to your ear and see if you hear it then.

[Jsherrock]

Thanks for this. From listening to videos of clicking sounds, I do think I am hearing the same clicking sounds. However, I fed the squirrel this morning and he ate well and is definitely not lethargic! I'll continue to keep a close eye on him.

[CritterMom]

Cephalexin won't be of much help if this baby goes downhill. Call around to friends and see what else you can get. Cipro would be very good.

[Jsherrock]

Cephalexin won't be of much help if this baby goes downhill. Call around to friends and see what else you can get. Cipro would be very good.

Just wanted to give a quick update- The squirrel is doing great! He is eating well, gaining weight, appropriately spunky, and I can no longer hear the clicking noise. So happy!!

And I'll be sure to have Baytril on hand in the future should I ever need it. Thanks again