If you think your squirrel is having a seizure, the first thing to do is to identify the cause. You can administer rehydration fluids and treat a squirrel for rabies or mange. Sugary food should be rubbed inside the squirrel’s mouth. If your squirrel screams, this could be a sign of a seizure.
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Identifying the cause of a squirrel seizure
Identifying the cause of a squirrel’s seizure is essential to keeping the animal safe and healthy. Seizures can be triggered by brain injuries or illnesses. Metabolic bone disease, for example, is the most common cause of adult squirrel seizures. In young squirrels, however, brain damage may result from an accidental fall out of a nest. To diagnose a squirrel’s seizure, a trip to an animal hospital or rehab center is the best option.
If the feeding seizure is associated with gasping, there is a chance the animal is not latching on to its nipple. If this is the case, try moving another nipple or using a Miracle Nipple. If none of these work, try euthanizing the squirrel and consult a veterinarian. If the animal is in a quadriplegic condition, it may need euthanasia.
Treating a squirrel with rehydration fluids
First, make sure the squirrel is properly hydrated. You can test this by pinching its skin over its shoulders. If it springs back easily, the squirrel is hydrated. If the skin is tented, the squirrel may not be able to be rehabilitated immediately. Treat the squirrel with rehydration fluids like Pedialyte or a solution of sugar and water. In addition, do not feed dehydrated baby squirrels.
When in doubt, check the skin turgor of the animal to determine the severity of dehydration. If the skin is normal, it snaps back quickly. If it is not, the animal is severely dehydrated and should be brought to a vet for further evaluation. If the squirrel is not peeing, it is highly likely dehydrated. Give it rehydration fluids and monitor it closely.
Treating a squirrel for rabies
Unlike domestic pets, infected wild animals will not receive the same treatment as healthy, well-cared-for domesticated animals. Because they are small, they may not be able to transmit the rabies virus to humans. If you are unsure whether your squirrel is infected, here are some things to remember. Symptoms of the disease may vary, so make sure to seek medical care if you suspect it of having rabies.
The initial symptoms of rabies include mood changes and aggression. The animal may have sensitivity to light, excessive secretion, or difficulty balancing. If left untreated, it can develop kidney failure, and pose a threat to humans. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian and seek medical attention. Rabies is not common in squirrels, but if you do, get it treated as soon as possible.
Treating a squirrel for mange
You may not have to worry about mange if your squirrel is having a seizure, but you should make sure it’s not a serious condition. You can treat a squirrel with veterinary medicine, such as Ivermectin, for mange. The dosage is very small, so an amateur is unlikely to be able to administer the medicine successfully.
A veterinarian can prescribe calcium, which should be given to the squirrel immediately, as delayed therapy can lead to death or permanent paralysis. To administer calcium, crush a pill and mix it with water or fruit juice. Use a syringe to administer the calcium mixture. Larger squirrels need 100 mg of calcium a day, while smaller ones need 50 mg every four hours. It’s important to note the amount of calcium given, but most squirrels need at least 500 milligrams daily.
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.
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