How Do I Know If My Baby Squirrel Is Healthy?
Determining if a baby squirrel is healthy involves assessing its physical condition, behavior, and appetite; a healthy baby squirrel will be active, responsive, and have a good appetite, while an unhealthy one may display lethargy, visible injuries, or digestive issues.
It’s a heartbreaking situation: finding a baby squirrel, seemingly abandoned and alone. Your first instinct is likely concern, and the immediate question becomes, “How do I know if my baby squirrel is healthy?” Assessing the well-being of these tiny creatures requires careful observation and a bit of knowledge about their normal behavior and development. This article, drawing upon insights from wildlife rehabilitators and squirrel experts, provides a comprehensive guide to determining the health status of a baby squirrel you may encounter.
Understanding Baby Squirrel Development
Before you can accurately assess a baby squirrel’s health, you need to understand the basics of their development. Squirrels are born blind and hairless, completely dependent on their mother for survival. Their development progresses through several stages:
- Neonatal (0-2 weeks): Blind, hairless, and completely dependent.
- Early Juvenile (2-5 weeks): Fur begins to grow, eyes start to open.
- Late Juvenile (5-8 weeks): Eyes fully open, more active, starting to explore.
- Weaning (8-10 weeks): Begins to eat solid food, still partially dependent on mother.
Knowing the approximate age of the squirrel is crucial. A very young squirrel will naturally exhibit different behaviors and physical characteristics than a more developed one.
Physical Indicators of Health
A thorough physical examination is crucial in determining the health of a baby squirrel. Here’s what to look for:
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Body Condition: A healthy baby squirrel will have a slightly rounded body shape. Look for signs of emaciation, such as prominent ribs or a sunken abdomen. A squirrel that feels unusually thin is likely underweight and potentially unhealthy.
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Fur: The fur should be clean, soft, and free of parasites. Check for signs of mange (hair loss), fleas, ticks, or wounds. Matted or dirty fur can indicate neglect or illness.
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Eyes: The eyes should be bright, clear, and free of discharge. Closed eyes (in older juveniles) or discharge can signal infection or illness.
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Nose and Mouth: The nose should be moist but not excessively runny. Check the mouth for any signs of injury or sores.
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Limbs and Mobility: Observe the squirrel’s movement. Are all limbs present and functioning? Look for signs of injury or paralysis. A healthy squirrel will move with relative ease.
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Hydration: Assess hydration by gently pinching the skin on the back of the neck. If the skin snaps back quickly, the squirrel is likely hydrated. If it remains tented, the squirrel is dehydrated.
Behavioral Indicators of Health
Observing the squirrel’s behavior is just as important as the physical examination.
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Activity Level: A healthy baby squirrel will be alert and responsive. It should react to sounds and movements. Lethargy or unresponsiveness can indicate illness.
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Appetite: A strong appetite is a good sign of health. Offer the squirrel a suitable formula (available at wildlife rehabilitation centers or some pet stores) and observe its feeding behavior. A healthy squirrel will eagerly suckle.
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Vocalization: While baby squirrels do make noises (squeaks and chirps), excessive crying or whimpering can be a sign of distress or pain.
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Grooming: Healthy squirrels will groom themselves regularly. Neglect of grooming can indicate illness or weakness.
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Droppings: Observe the squirrel’s droppings. They should be firm and brown. Diarrhea or unusual coloration can be a sign of digestive problems.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Trying to help a baby squirrel is admirable, but it’s crucial to avoid common mistakes:
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Assuming it’s abandoned: Often, the mother is nearby foraging. Observe from a distance for several hours before intervening.
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Feeding the wrong food: Cow’s milk is not suitable for baby squirrels and can cause digestive upset. Use a specialized formula recommended by a wildlife rehabilitator.
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Overfeeding: Overfeeding can lead to bloat and diarrhea, which can be fatal. Follow feeding guidelines carefully.
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Keeping it as a pet: In many areas, it’s illegal to keep a wild animal as a pet. Furthermore, squirrels require specialized care and are not well-suited for domestic life.
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Not seeking professional help: If you are unsure about the squirrel’s health or ability to survive, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately. They have the expertise and resources to provide the best possible care.
| Indicator | Healthy | Unhealthy |
|---|---|---|
| ——————- | ——————————————— | ————————————————— |
| Body Condition | Slightly rounded, firm | Thin, bony, sunken abdomen |
| Fur | Clean, soft, free of parasites | Matted, dirty, signs of mange or parasites |
| Eyes | Bright, clear, no discharge | Closed, cloudy, discharge present |
| Activity Level | Alert, responsive | Lethargic, unresponsive |
| Appetite | Eager, strong suckling reflex | Poor appetite, refuses to feed |
| Droppings | Firm, brown | Diarrhea, unusual coloration |
When to Seek Immediate Help
- Visible injuries (broken bones, wounds)
- Seizures or tremors
- Unresponsiveness
- Severe dehydration
- Difficulty breathing
- Exposure to toxins (e.g., poison)
In any of these situations, contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately. Time is of the essence.
The Importance of Wildlife Rehabilitation
Wildlife rehabilitators are trained professionals who specialize in the care and rehabilitation of injured, orphaned, or sick wild animals. They have the knowledge, skills, and resources to provide the specialized care that baby squirrels need to survive and thrive. Contacting a rehabilitator is often the best course of action when you find a baby squirrel whose health is questionable. They can assess the animal’s condition, provide appropriate treatment, and ultimately release it back into the wild.
How do I know if my baby squirrel is healthy? – FAQs
1. What are the signs of dehydration in a baby squirrel?
Dehydration is a serious concern for baby squirrels. Signs include lethargy, sunken eyes, and a loss of skin elasticity. You can test the skin’s elasticity by gently pinching the skin on the back of the neck. If it snaps back quickly, the squirrel is likely hydrated. If it remains tented, it’s dehydrated and needs immediate attention. Electrolyte solutions formulated for baby animals (available at some pet stores or through a rehabilitator) can help, but severe dehydration requires professional veterinary care.
2. What should I do if I find a baby squirrel that seems cold?
Baby squirrels are highly susceptible to hypothermia. If the squirrel feels cold to the touch, warm it up gradually. You can use a heating pad set on low, wrapped in a towel, or a hot water bottle wrapped in cloth. Never place the squirrel directly on the heating pad, as this can cause burns. Once the squirrel is warm, you can begin to assess its other needs.
3. How often should I feed a baby squirrel?
The frequency of feeding depends on the age of the squirrel. Very young squirrels (under 4 weeks) need to be fed every 2-3 hours. As they get older, the feeding frequency can be reduced. Always consult with a wildlife rehabilitator for specific feeding guidelines based on the squirrel’s age and condition.
4. What kind of formula should I use to feed a baby squirrel?
Never use cow’s milk. This can cause digestive problems. Instead, use a specialized formula designed for baby animals, such as Esbilac puppy milk replacer. You can find this at some pet stores or through a wildlife rehabilitator. Follow the mixing instructions carefully.
5. How do I stimulate a baby squirrel to urinate and defecate?
Baby squirrels require stimulation to urinate and defecate, especially in the early weeks of life. After each feeding, gently rub the anal area with a warm, damp cloth until the squirrel eliminates. This mimics the mother squirrel’s behavior.
6. How can I tell if a baby squirrel has internal parasites?
Signs of internal parasites can include diarrhea, weight loss, and a pot-bellied appearance. However, a definitive diagnosis requires a fecal examination by a veterinarian. If you suspect your squirrel has parasites, consult with a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian for appropriate treatment.
7. What does mange look like on a baby squirrel?
Mange is a skin disease caused by mites. It causes hair loss, thickened skin, and intense itching. The squirrel may scratch excessively, leading to secondary infections. Mange requires veterinary treatment with a specific type of anti-parasitic medication.
8. Is it safe to handle a baby squirrel?
While baby squirrels are generally not aggressive, it’s important to take precautions. Wear gloves when handling them to protect yourself from potential diseases. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling any wild animal.
9. What should I do if I find a baby squirrel with a wound?
Wounds can become infected quickly. Clean the wound gently with a mild antiseptic solution (such as diluted betadine) and seek veterinary care. The squirrel may need antibiotics to prevent infection.
10. How can I tell if a baby squirrel is blind?
If the squirrel’s eyes are open but appear cloudy or glazed over, it may be blind. You can also test its vision by gently moving your hand near its face. A sighted squirrel will typically react to the movement.
11. What are the legal considerations of caring for a baby squirrel?
In many areas, it is illegal to possess or care for wild animals without the proper permits. Contact your local wildlife agency for information on regulations in your area. It’s often best to turn the squirrel over to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
12. What is the best way to release a rehabilitated baby squirrel back into the wild?
Release should only be done by experienced rehabilitators, or with their detailed instructions. Squirrels need a gradual acclimatization to the wild environment. A soft release, where the squirrel is provided with food and shelter in a safe outdoor enclosure for a period of time, is often the best approach. This allows the squirrel to adjust to its surroundings and learn to forage for food before being fully released.