Have you ever stumbled upon a tiny, helpless squirrel, its eyes barely open, seemingly abandoned? Finding an infant squirrel can be a heart-wrenching experience, sparking an immediate urge to help. While it’s always best to reunite the baby with its mother, sometimes that’s simply not possible. Understanding how to properly care for a squirrel pup is crucial, as their survival depends entirely on human intervention at this vulnerable stage. Without the right knowledge, well-intentioned efforts can unfortunately lead to serious health problems or even death for the little one.
Raising a baby squirrel is a demanding and long-term commitment, requiring dedicated care and specific knowledge. It’s more than just providing food and shelter; it involves mimicking their mother’s care, which includes regulating their temperature, stimulating them to eliminate waste, and gradually introducing them to solid foods. Furthermore, understanding the legalities surrounding wildlife rehabilitation in your area is paramount, as possessing a wild animal without the proper permits can have serious consequences. Your efforts can be life-saving, but only if you’re equipped with the proper knowledge and resources.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infant Squirrel Care
What’s the best formula to feed a baby squirrel?
The best formula to feed a baby squirrel is a specialized formula designed to mimic squirrel milk, such as Fox Valley Day One Formula 32/40 or Esbilac puppy milk replacement powder mixed according to the package directions. These formulas provide the necessary balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates for healthy growth and development in young squirrels. Never use cow’s milk or human baby formula as these do not meet the nutritional needs of squirrels and can cause serious health problems.
To ensure proper hydration and nutrition, the formula should be mixed accurately, following the manufacturer’s instructions closely. Pay attention to the squirrel’s age and adjust the feeding frequency and amount accordingly. Very young squirrels, with eyes still closed, require frequent feedings (every 2-3 hours) around the clock. As they grow and their eyes open, the feeding intervals can be gradually extended. Always warm the formula to a comfortable temperature (around 95-100°F or 35-37°C) before feeding, as cold formula can cause digestive issues. Proper feeding technique is also crucial. Use a small syringe (without the needle) or a specialized pet nurser bottle. Hold the squirrel upright, similar to how it would nurse from its mother, and gently administer the formula, allowing it to suckle at its own pace. Avoid forcing the formula, as this can lead to aspiration and pneumonia. After each feeding, gently burp the squirrel by patting it on the back, just as you would with a human infant.
How often should I feed a newborn squirrel?
Newborn squirrels require frequent feedings, typically every 2-3 hours around the clock, including overnight, for the first few weeks of their lives. As they grow, the frequency can gradually decrease.
The exact feeding schedule depends on the squirrel’s age and weight, but a general guideline is to offer formula every 2-3 hours during the first 2 weeks. During weeks 3 and 4, you can extend the intervals to every 3-4 hours. From week 5 onward, you can decrease feedings to every 4-5 hours, eventually introducing solid foods as they develop. It’s important to pay attention to the squirrel’s cues. If they seem hungry sooner, offer formula. Conversely, if they are consistently refusing the full amount, consider slightly extending the intervals. Always ensure the formula is warmed to the correct temperature before feeding. Regular weighing is crucial to monitoring a squirrel’s progress. A healthy newborn squirrel should gain weight consistently. If you notice a sudden weight loss or a refusal to feed, consult a wildlife rehabilitator immediately, as it could indicate an underlying health issue. Remember, the goal is to mimic the natural feeding schedule provided by the mother squirrel, which involves frequent small meals to support rapid growth and development.
How do I stimulate a baby squirrel to go to the bathroom?
Baby squirrels cannot urinate or defecate on their own and require stimulation after each feeding. Use a soft, slightly damp cloth (like a baby wipe or a piece of flannel) and gently stroke the squirrel’s anal and genital region in a rhythmic, licking motion, mimicking the mother squirrel. This usually takes only a minute or two and should produce both urine and feces.
This stimulation is critical for their survival because they lack the neurological development to eliminate waste independently. If you don’t stimulate them, they will become impacted, which can lead to serious illness and even death. Observe the color and consistency of their urine and feces; healthy urine is typically a light yellow, and feces are small, formed pellets. Changes in color, consistency, or the absence of either urine or feces can indicate a health problem requiring veterinary attention or consultation with a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Continue this process after every feeding until the squirrel is old enough to eliminate on its own, usually around 4-6 weeks of age. As they mature, you can start placing them on a soft surface like a towel after feeding to see if they will go on their own, gradually reducing the amount of direct stimulation needed. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly after each feeding and stimulation session to maintain good hygiene.
How do I know if a baby squirrel is dehydrated?
A baby squirrel showing signs of dehydration will typically exhibit lethargy, sunken eyes, sticky or tacky gums, and a reduced or absent skin turgor (the skin doesn’t snap back quickly when gently pinched). It may also refuse to eat or drink, and its urine output will be significantly reduced or absent, often with dark, concentrated urine if any is produced.
Dehydration is a serious concern for infant squirrels and can quickly become life-threatening. Because they are so small, they are more susceptible to fluid loss and have less reserve to draw upon. To check skin turgor, gently pinch a small amount of skin on the back of the neck or shoulder. In a well-hydrated squirrel, the skin will quickly return to its normal position when released. If the skin stays tented or returns slowly, this indicates dehydration. Remember that this test is more reliable in younger squirrels; older squirrels naturally have less skin elasticity. Furthermore, observe the squirrel’s behavior. A dehydrated squirrel will be noticeably weaker and less responsive than usual. It might lie still and appear limp. The gums are a good indicator, as healthy gums are moist and pink, while dehydrated gums will feel dry and sticky to the touch. If you suspect dehydration, immediate action is crucial. Gently offer the squirrel a rehydration solution like Pedialyte (unflavored) or a homemade electrolyte solution (recipe below). Do not give plain water initially, as it can further deplete electrolytes. Use a syringe or eyedropper to administer the fluids slowly, a drop at a time, to avoid aspiration.
- Homemade Electrolyte Solution:
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
When can I start introducing solid food to a squirrel?
You can typically start introducing solid foods to a baby squirrel around 5-6 weeks old, which is when their eyes are open, and they are becoming more active and curious about their surroundings. This should be a gradual introduction, not a complete replacement of their formula.
At this stage, the squirrel’s primary source of nutrition still needs to be a specialized milk replacement formula designed for squirrels, as they are not yet fully capable of digesting solid foods. The introduction of solids is more about familiarizing them with new textures and tastes. Start with small amounts of soft, easily digestible foods. Good options include softened rodent blocks (soaked in formula), mashed avocado, or very ripe fruits like banana or berries. Offer these in addition to their regular formula feedings. Observe the squirrel’s reaction to the new foods. If they show interest and are able to chew and swallow without difficulty, you can gradually increase the amount of solid food offered while slowly decreasing the amount of formula as they mature. Always ensure fresh water is available. A good indicator that they are ready for more solid food is when they consistently consume the offered solids and actively seek them out. Remember that proper nutrition is essential for healthy development. Continue to monitor their weight and overall health. If you notice any signs of digestive upset, such as diarrhea or constipation, reduce the amount of solid food and consult with a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian experienced in squirrel care.