How to Hydrate a Baby Possum: A Comprehensive Guide
How do you hydrate a baby possum? Carefully providing a rehydration solution via syringe or dropper, while avoiding aspiration, is crucial for a dehydrated baby possum’s survival; monitor closely and consult a wildlife rehabilitator immediately.
Understanding the Urgent Need for Hydration
A baby possum found alone is likely in distress, and dehydration is a significant threat. Unlike adult possums, babies haven’t developed the same resilience and rapidly succumb to fluid loss. How do you hydrate a baby possum? It’s a critical question that demands immediate and careful action. Recognizing the signs of dehydration and acting quickly can be the difference between life and death.
Recognizing Dehydration in Baby Possums
Identifying dehydration is the first step. Look for these telltale signs:
- Sunken eyes: A key indicator, especially noticeable in young animals.
- Dry gums: Gently check the gums; they should be moist.
- Lethargy or weakness: A dehydrated possum will be sluggish and unresponsive.
- Skin tenting: Gently pinch the skin on the back of the neck; if it stays tented instead of snapping back quickly, the possum is likely dehydrated.
The Hydration Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
This section provides a detailed guide on how do you hydrate a baby possum, but remember, this is a temporary measure. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately.
- Prepare the Rehydration Solution: The ideal solution is Pedialyte (unflavored). Avoid milk as it can be difficult for baby possums to digest. You can also create an emergency rehydration solution by mixing:
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Gather Your Supplies:
- A 1cc or 3cc syringe without a needle, or an eyedropper.
- Clean towels or cloths.
- A warm, quiet place to work.
- Warm the Possum: Gently warm the possum gradually. Use a warm towel or heating pad set on low, never directly against the skin. A cold possum cannot properly absorb fluids.
- Administer the Solution:
- Hold the possum in a slightly upright position.
- Slowly administer the rehydration solution, one drop at a time, into the side of the mouth.
- Allow the possum to swallow completely before giving another drop.
- Important: Watch for any signs of choking or aspiration (coughing, sputtering). If this happens, immediately stop and gently turn the possum upside down to clear its airway.
- Monitor Hydration Levels: Observe the possum for improvement. Look for increased alertness, more moist gums, and a decrease in skin tenting. Do not overhydrate; little and often is the key.
Dosage Guidelines: How Much is Enough?
Dosage depends on the size and condition of the possum. As a general guideline:
| Possum Size | Approximate Weight | Initial Dosage | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| ——————– | ——————– | ————————- | ——————– |
| Very Small (Pinky) | <10 grams | 0.1 – 0.2 ml | Every 1-2 hours |
| Small | 10-20 grams | 0.2 – 0.5 ml | Every 2-3 hours |
| Medium | 20-50 grams | 0.5 – 1.0 ml | Every 3-4 hours |
| Larger | >50 grams | 1.0 – 2.0 ml | Every 4-6 hours |
These are estimates only and should be adjusted based on the possum’s individual needs and response. Contact a rehabilitator immediately.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Understanding how do you hydrate a baby possum also means knowing what not to do.
- Forcing the solution: This can lead to aspiration pneumonia, which is often fatal.
- Using milk: Baby possums cannot easily digest cow’s milk or other dairy products.
- Overhydrating: Too much fluid can be just as dangerous as too little.
- Failing to warm the possum: A cold possum will not be able to properly absorb the fluids.
- Delaying professional help: Providing initial hydration is essential, but it is not a substitute for professional veterinary care.
Securing Professional Help
Once you’ve stabilized the possum, the most crucial step is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. They have the expertise, facilities, and resources to provide the ongoing care the baby needs. Search online for “wildlife rehabilitators near me” or contact your local animal shelter or humane society for referrals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use tap water to hydrate a baby possum?
No, you should avoid using tap water. It may contain contaminants that can harm the baby possum. Pedialyte is the best option. If that’s not available, make a rehydration solution using boiled and cooled water as described above.
What if the baby possum refuses to drink?
Gently stimulate the possum by rubbing its head and neck. You can also try dipping your finger in the solution and letting the possum lick it off. If it still refuses, do not force it. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately. The possum may have underlying medical issues preventing it from drinking.
How often should I offer the rehydration solution?
The frequency depends on the size and condition of the possum. See the dosage chart above for general guidelines. Never give too much too quickly.
Is it okay to give the baby possum food at the same time?
No, do not give the possum food until it is fully rehydrated and has been assessed by a wildlife rehabilitator. A dehydrated animal cannot properly digest food.
What if the baby possum starts shivering after I warm it?
Shivering is a sign that the possum is too hot. Remove the heat source immediately and allow the possum to cool down slightly.
How can I tell if the baby possum is getting better?
Signs of improvement include increased alertness, more moist gums, improved skin elasticity (less skin tenting), and a willingness to drink. However, these are only initial indicators.
What diseases can I get from handling a baby possum?
While the risk is relatively low, possums can carry diseases and parasites. Always wear gloves when handling a possum and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.
Where do I find a licensed wildlife rehabilitator?
Search online using keywords like “wildlife rehabilitator near me” or contact your local animal shelter, humane society, or veterinary clinic for referrals. These organizations can provide you with the contact information for qualified professionals.
Can I raise the baby possum myself?
Raising a wild animal requires extensive knowledge and permits. It’s illegal to keep native wildlife without the proper authorization. Wildlife rehabilitators have the expertise and resources to provide the necessary care for the possum to be successfully released back into the wild.
What should I do if I find other baby possums nearby?
If the mother is still alive and nearby, it’s best to leave the babies undisturbed. Observe from a distance to see if the mother returns. If the mother is deceased or doesn’t return within a reasonable amount of time, contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately.
What are the long-term care requirements for a baby possum?
Long-term care includes specialized formulas, appropriate housing, enrichment activities, and eventual release preparation. These requirements are best met by experienced wildlife rehabilitators.
What if I accidentally get bitten by the baby possum?
Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Contact your doctor for advice, especially if the bite breaks the skin. While possums are generally not aggressive, any animal bite should be evaluated by a medical professional.