How to Revive a Baby Squirrel
If you find a baby squirrel in trouble, there are many things you can do to help it survive. First, make a small makeshift nest to house the baby squirrel and rehydrate it. Next, check for dehydration by testing its urine and drinking water. If the squirrel appears dehydrated, you should take action right away. You can also give it some food to keep it occupied while it’s recovering.
Rehydrate a dehydrated baby squirrel
When an injured, emaciated baby squirrel is in trouble, the first thing you should do is rehydrate it. Rehydration fluids should be lukewarm. If the squirrel is still in its pouch, use Pedialyte or a solution of sugar and water. You may also use baby oil for the squirrel’s skin. Rehydrating the squirrel should be done as soon as possible.
To check the infant squirrel’s health, look for signs of diarrhea. If the baby squirrel has runny, non-formed stools, or a drool-like liquid, then he or she is dehydrated. If the baby squirrel is eating too much, or if it has too many feedings, it may have too much food. If the baby squirrel is dehydrated, you should switch to an electrolyte rehydration formula. Once the baby squirrel has gone through this, you should take him to a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.
A feeding syringe is an effective tool in rehydrating a dehydrated baby squirrel. The squirrel’s weight must be recorded regularly to ensure the proper nutritional intake. You can adjust the feeding schedule accordingly. A feeding syringe with water and a few drops of Pedialyte will be sufficient. When a squirrel is dehydrated, it is best to raise him with other squirrels.
Create a make-shift nest for a baby squirrel
You can create a makeshift nest for a baby squirrel by placing it in a box with a lid off. A small fleece blanket will also do. Always pick up the baby squirrel with a soft cloth to avoid catching its nails. Avoid using cardboard boxes as these can dehydrate the animal and are not recommended. You can also use a large Nest Box to mimic the natural nesting methods of a squirrel. Be sure to clean the box frequently.
If it’s raining, a plastic basket might be better. It won’t soak up water like a box would. Use rope or bungee cords to secure the basket. A plastic jug with an opening will also do the trick. Cut an opening several inches above the bottom so that the mother squirrel can enter. Afterwards, the box can be removed. The baby squirrel should be kept out of the box until it is big enough for the mother squirrel.
If you’re trying to create a make-shift nest for a new baby squirrel, remember that it’s likely that the mother will move the babies to another location soon after you release them. Remember that squirrels are not domesticated, so they are unlikely to make good pets. But if you’re able to rescue a baby squirrel, it is vital to try to reunite it with its mother as soon as possible. It is important to remember that mother squirrels are unable to care for their young when they are cold, injured, or sick.
Test for dehydration in a dehydrated baby squirrel
If you suspect that your baby squirrel is dehydrated, one of the best ways to tell is to look at his or her body weight. It should be plump with round belly and arms. If it’s thin, skin might be loose or wrinkled. A dehydrated baby squirrel may urinate, but this is normal. If you see dehydration in your squirrel, make sure to rehydrate it with a sugar solution or Pedialyte.
If you suspect your squirrel is dehydrated, pinch its skin over its shoulders to see how much fluid it is losing. If the skin springs back when squeezed, it’s fine. If the skin is tented, the squirrel needs rehydration fluids, but don’t feed him immediately. Rehydratation fluids should be given over the next few hours to prevent further dehydration.
Squirrels usually self-nurse. However, if you observe them peeing but not peeing, there may be an obstruction in their privates. If this occurs, you can gently rub the area with warm water. If you notice the squirrel has a scab on its privates, it’s likely dehydrated. You should provide it with extra fluids and take it to a vet to determine if it needs more.
What are the basic steps for reviving a baby squirrel?
The basic steps for reviving a baby squirrel are to gently warm the squirrel stimulate its breathing and get it to take in some fluids.
How do you gently warm a baby squirrel?
You can gently warm a baby squirrel by placing it in a soft dry container with a warm water bottle or heating pad set on low.
How do you stimulate a baby squirrel’s breathing?
You can stimulate a baby squirrel’s breathing by gently rubbing its chest with your finger.
What fluids can you give a baby squirrel?
You can give a baby squirrel fluids such as Pedialyte honey or syrup mixed with water.
How often should you feed a baby squirrel?
You should feed a baby squirrel every two to three hours.
What type of milk can you give a baby squirrel?
You can give a baby squirrel goat’s milk cow’s milk or soy milk.
How do you know if a baby squirrel is dehydrated?
You can tell if a baby squirrel is dehydrated if it has a dry mouth sunken eyes or wrinkled skin.
How do you know if a baby squirrel is too cold?
You can tell if a baby squirrel is too cold if it is shivering or has cold blue skin.
How do you know if a baby squirrel is too hot?
You can tell if a baby squirrel is too hot if it is panting or has red hot skin.
What are the signs that a baby squirrel is sick?
The signs that a baby squirrel is sick are if it has diarrhea vomiting or a runny nose.
What are the signs that a baby squirrel is injured?
The signs that a baby squirrel is injured are if it is bleeding has a broken bone or is unable to move.
How do you transport a baby squirrel?
You should transport a baby squirrel in a soft dry container with a warm water bottle or heating pad set on low.
How do you care for a baby squirrel with an injury?
You should take a baby squirrel with an injury to a vet or wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible.
How do you care for a baby squirrel with an illness?
You should take a baby squirrel with an illness to a vet or wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible.
What should you do if you can’t revive a baby squirrel?
If you can’t revive a baby squirrel you should take it to a vet or wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.
