When to Introduce a Water Bottle to a Baby Squirrel 
When to introduce a water bottle to a baby squirrel is dependent on the type of animal. You should never introduce a water bottle to a wild baby without first contacting the mother squirrel. This will only cause a feeding and rehydration problem for the baby squirrel. In addition, if the mother does not come within 30 minutes, the baby will probably be harmed by the dangers of the night or by other animals nearby.
Rehydration
When you introduce a water bottle to a baby squirrel, you need to watch for the signs of dehydration and make sure the baby is comfortable. A dehydrated baby squirrel may drip fluid from its nose or mouth. The baby may be unable to take much water at one time, so try to keep it semi-upright and warm before you attempt to give it fluids.
A scab on the back of a baby squirrel may be covering the opening. If the skin is scabbed and elevated, it’s likely dehydrated. If it stays elevated for a long time, it’s likely dehydrated. If the squirrel is not peeing, give it more fluid. If the squirrel refuses to drink water, it’s best to bring it to the veterinarian.
Feeding
There is a specific time when you should introduce a water bottle to a baby squirrel. If your baby is still nursing, wait until they are at least six weeks old. By then, they may have developed a nursing trance. The trance will be visible by their wide open mouths, where they will continue to swallow formula from the syringe. During this time, you can try washing their face with water.
A single orphan squirrel will likely bond with the caregiver right away. Once the baby squirrel is eight weeks old, they will gradually wean themselves from their mother. Even after that, they should stay with their mother until they are 12 weeks old. A six-week-old squirrel will still be totally dependent on its mother until they are around twelve weeks old. However, once they are old enough, they will begin to wean themselves from their mother.
Introducing a water bottle
If you’re trying to introduce a water bottle to your baby squirrel, you’re going to want to make sure it’s warm. Baby squirrels have two sets of teeth: the upper and lower. During the first few days of feeding, you may see the baby squirrel avoiding eating less than usual. Then, you’ll likely see blood. You can make this process easier by giving it a water bottle with a warm formula.
To introduce a water bottle, start by using a syringe filled with the appropriate amount of formula. Don’t fill it too high, as this may cause the squirrel to suck on the tip. Start slowly and gradually increase the amount of formula you give, and don’t overfill it. If you use a dropper, make sure there are no air pockets. If your baby squirrel doesn’t lap the fluid, you can try a larger syringe.
Symptoms of MBD in a baby squirrel
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) can affect a baby squirrel as young as 8 to 12 weeks old. While the disease is fatal to a fully grown adult, baby squirrels can thrive if properly cared for, with adequate sunshine and calcium supplementation. Although calcium has a long time to work, a baby squirrel may suffer from several months of alarming episodes before it improves. However, if a baby squirrel develops MBD, treatment is usually successful and it is important to get it checked by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
The first signs of MBD in a baby squirrel are seizures that occur between two and three months of age. These seizures may be brief and only occur when the baby squirrel is out of sight. Seizures may also cause paralysis. The baby may lose its appetite and show signs of pain. Left untreated, MBD can lead to paralysis or death. The symptoms of MBD can be misdiagnosed as other illnesses, but if you catch them early enough, they can cure the disease.
Providing water to a baby squirrel
Providing water to a baby squirrel can be very challenging. Its small size and weakened mouth may prevent it from swallowing large amounts of liquid at one time. Instead, provide small amounts of water every half an hour, giving it a little stimulation after each drinking period. Make sure you give it nutritious foods when its urine is light yellow. If the baby squirrel drools, clean its face with a wet cloth and offer more water every half an hour.
Young squirrels must develop a fear of humans before they can become independent. Providing water to a baby squirrel is crucial for its wellbeing, so it is important to keep the enclosure warm and dark. It may refuse to eat or drink, especially when it first approaches you. Providing water to a baby squirrel is not a life-threatening situation, but it can cause discomfort if it doesn’t feel safe.
What is the youngest age you can introduce a water bottle to a baby squirrel?
Around 4 weeks old.
How often should you give a baby squirrel water?
2-3 times a day.
How much water should you give a baby squirrel each time?
1-2 tablespoons.
What kind of water is best for a baby squirrel?
Fresh clean water.
What kind of water bottle is best for a baby squirrel?
A small water bottle with a sipper tube.
How do you know if a baby squirrel is dehydrated?
Look for signs of lethargy weakness sunken eyes and dry mouth.
What should you do if you think a baby squirrel is dehydrated?
Take it to a wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible.
Can a baby squirrel drown in a water bowl?
Yes so it’s important to have a shallow water bowl or use a water bottle.
What else do baby squirrels need besides water?
Baby squirrels also need milk replacer solid food and a warm place to nest.
Where can I get a water bottle and milk replacer for a baby squirrel?
Wildlife rehabilitators or pet stores.
How do I know when a baby squirrel is ready to start solid food?
Look for signs that the baby is weaning such as chewing on solid food playing with food or losing interest in milk replacer.
What kind of solid food should I give a baby squirrel?
A variety of fruits vegetables and nuts.
How do I introduce solid food to a baby squirrel?
Slowly at first mix a small amount of solid food with the milk replacer and gradually increase the amount of solid food over time.
Can I give a baby squirrel cow’s milk?
No cow’s milk is not suitable for baby squirrels and can cause diarrhea.
What should I do if I find a baby squirrel?
The best thing to do is to leave it alone as the mother is usually nearby.
If you are concerned contact a wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
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.
