2-3 week old baby squirrel latching issues

[Lexshae]

I took in a rescue baby squirrel a little over two weeks ago. She was likely only a day or two old when I took her so she is roughly 18-19 days old. I hydrated her before feeding her formula and since starting on formula we haven't had any issues with her eating. She figured out how to latch very quickly and did so for almost 2 weeks. I am feeding her Esbilac with a 1 ml syringe and small, long nipple. She weighs about 34 grams and with good feedings will take 1.5 ml. She has been going potty consistently and seems healthy. But the last few days, feeding her has really been a struggle. When she started struggling, she wouldn't latch right away. She would kind of chew on and spit out the nipple, take a little break, and then latch fine. But last night and today she will not latch at all. She just gums the nipple and spits it out. Sometimes after spitting the nipple out, she will start to suckle with her tongue on the roof of her mouth but won't with the nipple. There have been a few feedings like this where she'll only eat .5-.7 ml because she gets tired and disinterested. I'm kind of at a loss because even if I'm able to get enough formula in her, it takes a long time to feed her and she and the milk cool down. Is this just a phase or could it be caused by another problem? Do baby squirrels go through teething at this age? I appreciate you taking the time to read this! Any insight or advice will be greatly appreciated!

[Charley Chuckles]

Ok I'm bumping your thread....
Also formula must be kept very warm like their mommy's milk.

[10xmama]

Not sure if this will help… but I’ve had the most success with this nipple from Henry’s… can purchase on Amazon:



Also, when I feed a little one (I have a 2wk old squirrel right now), I wrap it kind of burrito like in a little towel to keep it snug/secure. That really seems to help.

[Lexshae]

Not sure if this will help… but I’ve had the most success with this nipple from Henry’s… can purchase on Amazon:



Also, when I feed a little one (I have a 2wk old squirrel right now), I wrap it kind of burrito like in a little towel to keep it snug/secure. That really seems to help.

Thank you so much for the recommendation! I just placed an order for them and they should be here Monday. Hopefully baby likes them better!🤞 Thanks again!

[Lexshae]

Ok I'm bumping your thread....
Also formula must be kept very warm like their mommy's milk.

Thank you so much! I appreciate it!