What Do Baby Possums Drink? Nourishing Joeys for Optimal Growth
Baby possums, also known as joeys, primarily drink mother’s milk, which is specifically formulated to provide all the essential nutrients they need for healthy development. As they mature, their diet transitions to include solid foods.
Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Baby Possums
Possums are marsupials, meaning their young are born in a very underdeveloped state. This necessitates a prolonged period of nurturing and specialized nutrition, primarily through their mother’s milk. What do baby possums drink is therefore dictated by their developmental stage and the unique composition of marsupial milk.
The Composition of Possum Milk: A Nutritional Powerhouse
Possum milk is not like cow’s milk. Its composition changes drastically as the joey grows. It’s specifically tailored to the joey’s needs at each stage of development, progressing from a dilute, antibody-rich fluid soon after birth to a much richer, higher-fat substance as the joey matures. This milk provides:
- Essential proteins for muscle and tissue development.
- Fats for energy and brain development.
- Carbohydrates for immediate energy needs.
- Vitamins and minerals critical for overall health and immune function.
- Antibodies to protect against disease in their early, vulnerable stages.
The exact composition varies between species of possums and changes as the joey matures.
From Pouch to Independence: Dietary Transition
As joeys mature, they begin to emerge from the pouch and explore their surroundings. This is when they start supplementing their milk diet with solid foods. This transition typically begins around 3-4 months of age.
Here’s a general timeline:
- 0-3 Months: Exclusively mother’s milk.
- 3-5 Months: Gradual introduction of soft, easily digestible foods like fruits, insects, and vegetation. The mother will sometimes regurgitate partially digested food for her joey.
- 5-7 Months: Increasingly independent feeding on a wider variety of foods. Weaning from milk begins.
- 7+ Months: Fully independent and consuming a diet similar to adult possums.
Orphaned or Injured Joeys: Alternative Feeding
If a baby possum is orphaned or injured, it requires special care and a carefully formulated substitute for its mother’s milk. This is a delicate process and should ideally be overseen by a wildlife rehabilitator. NEVER give a baby possum cow’s milk. Here’s what’s usually involved:
- Specialized Milk Replacers: Formulated specifically for marsupials, typically low-lactose and high in protein and fat. Wombaroo is a common and trusted brand.
- Feeding Schedule: Frequent, small feedings are required, gradually increasing the volume as the joey grows.
- Hygiene: Strict hygiene is essential to prevent infections, as joeys have weak immune systems.
- Stimulation: Orphaned joeys require stimulation to urinate and defecate after each feeding, mimicking the mother’s care. A damp, soft cloth gently stroked across their abdomen will usually do the trick.
- Gradual Weaning: As the joey matures, soft foods are introduced, mirroring the natural weaning process.
Common Mistakes in Feeding Orphaned Joeys
Attempting to care for an orphaned joey is admirable, but making mistakes can be fatal. Here are some common pitfalls:
- Feeding Cow’s Milk: Cow’s milk is too high in lactose and can cause diarrhea and dehydration, which can be fatal.
- Overfeeding: Overfeeding can lead to bloating, discomfort, and even aspiration.
- Improper Hygiene: Poor hygiene can lead to infections that can quickly overwhelm a joey’s weak immune system.
- Premature Introduction of Solids: Introducing solids too early can damage the underdeveloped digestive system.
- Lack of Stimulation: Failing to stimulate urination and defecation can lead to serious health complications.
FAQs: Understanding Possum Joey Nutrition
What is the main source of nutrition for a very young baby possum?
The primary source of nutrition for a very young joey is exclusively its mother’s milk, which is rich in antibodies and specifically tailored for its initial developmental stage.
How does the composition of possum milk change as the joey grows?
As the joey matures, the milk becomes richer in fat and protein to support faster growth and development. The carbohydrate content may also adjust to meet changing energy demands.
Can I give a baby possum cow’s milk?
Absolutely not. Cow’s milk is unsuitable for possums and can cause serious digestive issues like diarrhea, which can quickly lead to dehydration and death. Stick to marsupial-specific milk replacers.
What is “Wombaroo” and why is it recommended for orphaned joeys?
Wombaroo is a commercially available marsupial milk replacer specifically formulated to mimic the nutritional composition of possum milk. It’s easily digestible and provides the right balance of nutrients for optimal growth.
At what age do baby possums start to eat solid food?
Joeys typically begin to experiment with solid foods around 3-4 months of age, gradually supplementing their milk diet.
What kind of solid foods can I give to a baby possum?
Suitable solid foods for weaning joeys include soft fruits, mashed vegetables, and small insects. Avoid giving them anything hard or difficult to digest.
Why is it important to stimulate an orphaned joey after feeding?
Stimulating urination and defecation is crucial because young joeys are unable to do so on their own. Their mother normally licks their abdomen to stimulate these processes. You must mimic this behavior to avoid serious health problems.
How often should I feed an orphaned baby possum?
Very young joeys need to be fed frequently, every 2-3 hours, even during the night. As they grow, the intervals between feedings can be extended. Consult a wildlife rehabilitator for a precise schedule.
How do I know if I am feeding a baby possum too much?
Signs of overfeeding include bloating, discomfort, and regurgitation. If you notice these symptoms, reduce the amount of milk you’re giving.
What should I do if I find an injured or orphaned baby possum?
The best course of action is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately. They have the expertise and resources to provide the specialized care the joey needs to survive.
Is it legal to keep a baby possum as a pet?
In most places, it is illegal to keep a native wild animal, including possums, as a pet without the proper permits and licenses. It is important to check your local and state laws.
What are some key indicators of a healthy baby possum?
A healthy joey will be active, alert, and have a good appetite. Their fur should be clean and well-groomed, and they should be gaining weight steadily. Consult a vet or rehabilitator if you have concerns.