Breathing Funny... 9wk old

[TK-SQRL]

One of a group of orphans that has been in our care for over 5 weeks has developed a funny breathing thing, basically labored breathing, sometimes with her mouth open.

I am 99.99% sure it is not aspiration because (a) I've seen that and it does not sound like this, and (b) she is running around doing all the normal baby squirrel behaviors, and (c) she eats.

I am 98% sure it is not an infection, because there is no discharge, no sneezing or coughing, none of the usual obvious things.

I did not see anything in her mouth although she may have something deeper in there, but I would think she would be coughing that out.

Our vet is currently short-staffed due to the 'rona, which hasn't been helpful.

Can squirrels get asthma? Can it be some kind of other infection? I am going to give her antibiotics anyway but me and my rehab group are all stumped.

Thanks!

[Mel1959]

I’m not sure about asthma. A possible nasal obstruction? I have used a nebulizer with saline for squirrels. I also had a vet prescribe Albuterol and Bupenephrine for the nebulizer for a congested squirrel.

[TK-SQRL]

I have been giving her antibiotics and she seems to be doing better. Not sure if it was obstruction or infection... but at least she's doing better. It was just so weird!