Understanding Newborn Squirrel Needs: The Foundation of Successful Care
Finding a tiny, helpless newborn squirrel can tug at the heartstrings. While your first instinct might be to nurture it, knowing exactly what to feed a baby squirrel and how to care for it is paramount to its survival. Sadly, many well-intentioned attempts to feed orphaned squirrels end in failure due to improper nutrition and feeding techniques. Aspiration, dehydration, and malnutrition are very real dangers that can be avoided with the right knowledge. This article provides a comprehensive guide to newborn squirrel food, covering appropriate formula choices, feeding schedules, and essential care tips to ensure the healthy development of orphaned squirrels. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge needed to give these vulnerable creatures the best possible chance at a healthy life.
Before you even consider what to feed a baby squirrel, it’s essential to understand its specific needs. The age of the squirrel plays a significant role in determining its dietary requirements and care protocols. Misjudging the age can lead to inappropriate feeding practices and potentially harm the animal.
Estimating the age of a newborn squirrel can be done by observing several physical characteristics. Very young squirrels, those just a few days old, will be completely hairless and their eyes will be tightly shut. Their skin will appear pinkish. As they age, a fine layer of fur begins to grow. Around two to three weeks, their eyes start to open. By four to five weeks, they are typically fully furred and begin to show more active behavior. Remember, these are approximate timelines, and individual squirrels may develop at slightly different rates. Use these observations as a guide to determine the appropriate stage-specific feeding schedule and newborn squirrel food preparation methods.
Nutritionally, newborn squirrels require a highly specialized diet that mimics their mother’s milk. This means a food source that is rich in both fats and protein, vital for their rapid growth and development. Hydration is also absolutely critical. These tiny creatures are very susceptible to dehydration, so providing sufficient fluids is just as important as providing solid nutrition. While this article focuses on the initial newborn squirrel food needs, it’s important to keep in mind that their diet will evolve as they grow. Eventually, they will transition to solid foods like nuts, seeds, and vegetables. However, for these early days, a carefully selected and prepared formula is the key to survival.
Choosing the Right Newborn Squirrel Food: The Formula is Key
Selecting the correct newborn squirrel food is perhaps the most crucial decision you’ll make. Not all formulas are created equal, and some can even be harmful to baby squirrels. The goal is to find a formula that closely replicates the composition of natural squirrel milk.
The gold standard, and the most highly recommended formula for feeding a baby squirrel, is Esbilac puppy formula. This formula is specifically designed for puppies, but its nutritional profile closely matches the needs of newborn squirrels, providing the essential fats, proteins, and carbohydrates required for healthy development. Esbilac is available in both powder and liquid forms. The powder form is often preferred, as it allows you to control the consistency more easily. You can find Esbilac at most pet supply stores and online retailers. It is truly the best option when it comes to finding appropriate newborn squirrel food.
If Esbilac is absolutely unavailable, a goat’s milk-based formula can be used as a temporary alternative. However, it is essential to ensure that the goat’s milk formula is fortified with additional nutrients, specifically fats and proteins, to better mimic the composition of squirrel milk. Consult with a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator for specific recommendations on how to supplement a goat’s milk formula. This is truly a last resort, as the Esbilac puppy formula is always preferred.
Crucially, avoid feeding newborn squirrels cow’s milk or human baby formula. These formulas are not nutritionally appropriate for squirrels and can cause serious health problems, including digestive upset, diarrhea, and even death. Cow’s milk, in particular, lacks the necessary fats and contains lactose levels that squirrels cannot properly digest. Human baby formula also lacks the specific balance of nutrients needed for healthy squirrel development. Prioritizing the recommended formulas ensures the best start for your newborn squirrel.
Preparing the Newborn Squirrel Food: Mixing with Precision
Once you’ve chosen the appropriate formula, preparing it correctly is equally important. Proper preparation ensures that the newborn squirrel food is easily digestible and provides the necessary nutrients.
When using Esbilac powder, follow the instructions on the packaging carefully. Typically, this involves mixing the powder with warm water until it reaches a smooth, lump-free consistency. The mixture should be slightly thicker than human baby formula but thin enough to easily pass through a syringe. Pay close attention to the ratio of powder to water, as incorrect proportions can lead to digestive problems. If the formula is too thick, it can be difficult for the squirrel to swallow and may cause constipation. If it’s too thin, it may not provide adequate nutrition.
Hygiene is also paramount. Sterilize all bottles and syringes before each feeding to prevent bacterial contamination. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the formula or the squirrel. Prepared formula should be stored in the refrigerator and used within twenty-four hours. Discard any unused formula after this time to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Feeding Techniques: A Delicate Process
Feeding a newborn squirrel is a delicate process that requires patience, careful attention, and the right equipment. Improper feeding techniques can lead to serious complications, such as aspiration pneumonia, which is often fatal.
Essential supplies for feeding a newborn squirrel include small syringes (one cc, three cc, and five cc), small animal feeding nipples (if available), soft cloths or paper towels, and optionally, a heating pad to provide warmth during feeding. The size of the syringe will depend on the age of the squirrel. Start with a smaller syringe for very young squirrels and gradually increase the size as they grow.
The most important aspect of feeding technique is proper positioning. Never, under any circumstances, feed a squirrel on its back. This can cause the formula to enter the lungs, leading to aspiration pneumonia. Always hold the squirrel in an upright position or on its belly, mimicking how it would nurse from its mother. Gently insert the syringe or nipple into the squirrel’s mouth and slowly release the formula. Allow the squirrel to suckle at its own pace. Do not force the formula in, as this can also lead to aspiration.
Feeding schedules vary depending on the squirrel’s age. Very young squirrels, those with their eyes still closed, will need to be fed every two to three hours around the clock. As they grow, you can gradually increase the intervals between feedings. A general guideline is to feed one to two cc of formula per feeding for the first week, increasing the amount as the squirrel grows. The best way to determine if a squirrel is full is to observe its behavior. A full squirrel will gently resist the nipple or syringe and may turn its head away. Avoid overfeeding, as this can cause digestive problems.
After each feeding, gently burp the squirrel to prevent gas and discomfort. Hold the squirrel upright and gently pat its back until it burps. This is particularly important for very young squirrels.
Finally, remember that newborn squirrels cannot eliminate on their own. After each feeding, gently stimulate urination and defecation by using a warm, damp cloth to gently rub the squirrel’s anal and genital area. This mimics the mother squirrel’s behavior and is essential for their digestive health.
General Care and Monitoring: Ensuring a Thriving Environment
In addition to providing proper newborn squirrel food and feeding techniques, general care and monitoring are crucial for the health and well-being of orphaned squirrels.
Maintaining warmth is paramount, especially for very young squirrels. Keep the squirrel in a warm, draft-free environment. A heating pad set on low, wrapped in a towel, or a warm water bottle can provide a safe and comfortable heat source. Avoid overheating the squirrel, as this can also be harmful. Monitor the squirrel’s temperature to ensure it is not too hot or too cold.
Hygiene is equally important. Keep the squirrel and its environment clean to prevent the spread of disease. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water before and after handling the squirrel. Clean the squirrel’s enclosure regularly.
Be vigilant for signs of illness. Lethargy, refusal to eat, diarrhea, constipation, and labored breathing are all warning signs that something may be wrong. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek veterinary or wildlife rehabilitator assistance immediately. Early intervention is often the key to successful treatment.
As the squirrel grows, its diet will need to change. Gradually introduce solid foods, such as nuts, seeds, and vegetables, as the squirrel matures. This transition should be gradual and carefully monitored. Observe the squirrel’s response to the new foods and adjust the diet accordingly.
Finding a Wildlife Rehabilitator: Knowing When to Seek Professional Help
While this guide provides valuable information on how to care for newborn squirrels, it is essential to recognize the limitations of your knowledge and know when to seek professional help.
If you are unsure of how to care for the squirrel, if the squirrel is injured or ill, or if you are unable to provide proper care, it is best to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. These professionals have the expertise and resources to provide the specialized care that orphaned squirrels need to thrive.
You can find a wildlife rehabilitator by contacting your state wildlife agency, local animal rescue organizations, or the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association. These organizations can provide you with a list of licensed rehabilitators in your area. It is always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional help when needed.
Conclusion: Giving Newborn Squirrels a Second Chance
Caring for a newborn squirrel is a challenging but rewarding experience. Providing the proper newborn squirrel food, employing the correct feeding techniques, maintaining warmth, and ensuring hygiene are all crucial for their survival. Remember, seeking professional help when needed is essential. A successful outcome depends on your dedication, knowledge, and commitment to providing the best possible care. While it’s tempting to think of keeping the squirrel as a pet, remember that these are wild animals. The ultimate goal should be to rehabilitate and release them back into their natural habitat whenever possible, giving them a second chance at a free and healthy life. This act of kindness is truly the most rewarding outcome of caring for these vulnerable creatures.
