How to Keep Baby Possums Alive: A Lifesaving Guide
Keeping a baby possum alive requires providing specialized care that mimics its mother’s nurturing environment. How do you keep baby possums alive? By offering warmth, hydration, appropriate nutrition, and proper hygiene, you can significantly increase their chances of survival.
Introduction: The Fragile Lives of Orphaned Possums
Finding a baby possum alone can be a stressful experience. These marsupials, often referred to as joeys, are incredibly vulnerable when orphaned, particularly if they are very young. Their survival depends entirely on specialized care that replicates the nurturing environment they would receive from their mother. This guide provides comprehensive instructions on how do you keep baby possums alive, covering crucial aspects from initial assessment to long-term rehabilitation. It’s important to remember that caring for wildlife often requires permits and expertise, so contacting a licensed wildlife rehabilitator should always be the first step. This article offers information for emergency situations while you await professional assistance.
Initial Assessment and First Aid
The first few hours are critical in ensuring a baby possum’s survival. A quick assessment will help you determine the severity of the situation.
- Check for Injuries: Look for obvious wounds, broken bones, or signs of trauma.
- Assess Hydration: Gently pinch the skin on the back of the neck. If it tents (stays elevated), the possum is likely dehydrated.
- Evaluate Age and Size: This will help determine the appropriate feeding schedule and type of formula.
- Observe Behavior: Note whether the possum is alert, lethargic, or unresponsive.
Immediate first aid involves providing warmth and rehydration. A heating pad set on low, wrapped in a towel, can prevent hypothermia.
Creating a Safe and Warm Environment
Baby possums need a consistently warm and secure environment to thrive. Mimicking the pouch is key.
- Temperature: Maintain a temperature of 90-95°F (32-35°C) for very young joeys, gradually decreasing to 80-85°F (27-29°C) as they grow.
- Housing: Use a small, soft-sided carrier or a box lined with soft blankets or towels. Avoid using towels with loops that can catch their claws.
- Hygiene: Keep the enclosure clean to prevent bacterial infections. Change bedding frequently.
Hydration: The Cornerstone of Survival
Dehydration is a major threat to baby possums. Providing fluids is essential, but it must be done carefully.
- Electrolyte Solution: Use a pediatric electrolyte solution like Pedialyte (unflavored) in the first 24-48 hours to rehydrate.
- Administration: Offer the solution via a syringe or eyedropper. Never force feed, as this can lead to aspiration (fluid entering the lungs). Offer small amounts frequently (every 2-3 hours).
- Monitoring: Watch for signs of improvement, such as increased alertness and reduced skin tenting.
Nutritional Needs: Feeding Baby Possums
Once the possum is rehydrated, it’s time to introduce a suitable formula.
- Formula Choice: Specially formulated marsupial milk replacer is ideal. If unavailable, kitten milk replacer (KMR) can be used short-term. Cow’s milk is not suitable and can be harmful.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed small amounts frequently. Very young joeys (pinkies) need to be fed every 2-3 hours, while older joeys can be fed every 4-6 hours.
- Feeding Technique: Use a syringe or specialized marsupial nipple. Hold the possum in an upright position to prevent aspiration. Gently stimulate urination and defecation after each feeding by wiping the genital area with a warm, damp cloth.
- Amount to Feed: The amount of formula to give depends on the possum’s weight and age. Consult a wildlife rehabilitator for specific guidance.
Stimulating Elimination
Baby possums cannot urinate or defecate on their own until they are older. Their mothers stimulate this process by licking their genital region. You must mimic this behavior.
- Materials: Use a soft cloth or cotton ball dampened with warm water.
- Technique: Gently wipe the genital area in a circular motion after each feeding. This encourages elimination.
- Observation: Monitor the frequency and consistency of urine and feces. Report any abnormalities (e.g., diarrhea, blood in urine) to a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator.
Common Mistakes in Possum Care
Many well-intentioned caregivers make mistakes that can jeopardize a baby possum’s health.
- Overfeeding: This can lead to bloating, diarrhea, and aspiration.
- Using Cow’s Milk: Cow’s milk lacks the necessary nutrients and can cause digestive problems.
- Forcing Feeding: This can result in aspiration pneumonia, a potentially fatal condition.
- Neglecting Hygiene: Unclean conditions can lead to bacterial infections.
- Premature Release: Releasing a possum that is not fully independent can be a death sentence.
Preparing for Release
Releasing a baby possum back into the wild requires careful preparation.
- Weaning: Gradually transition the possum from formula to solid food. Offer small pieces of fruits, vegetables, and insects.
- Acclimation: Provide an outdoor enclosure where the possum can acclimate to the environment.
- Soft Release: Consider a soft release, where the possum is provided with food and shelter in the release area for a period of time before being fully released.
Identifying Possum Life Stages
| Stage | Description | Care Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| ————– | ——————————————————————————————————— | ——————————————————————————————————————————————————- |
| Pinky | Hairless, eyes closed, completely dependent. | Frequent feedings (every 2-3 hours), high temperature (90-95°F), constant stimulation for elimination. |
| Furry Joey | Covered in fur, eyes may be open or closed, still dependent. | Less frequent feedings (every 4-6 hours), slightly lower temperature (85-90°F), stimulation for elimination. |
| Independent Joey | Fully furred, eyes open, able to move around independently. | Offer solid food in addition to formula, further reduce temperature, begin acclimation to outdoor environment, reduce stimulation for elimination. |
The Importance of Expert Assistance
While this guide provides valuable information, it’s crucial to seek professional help. A licensed wildlife rehabilitator has the experience, resources, and permits necessary to provide the best possible care for a baby possum. They can also help you determine the appropriate course of action based on the possum’s specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I feed a baby possum?
The frequency of feedings depends on the age of the possum. Very young joeys, often called “pinkies,” require feeding every 2-3 hours. Older joeys may be fed every 4-6 hours. Always consult with a wildlife rehabilitator for specific feeding schedules based on the possum’s weight and development.
What is the best formula to use for baby possums?
The best option is a specially formulated marsupial milk replacer. If this is unavailable, kitten milk replacer (KMR) can be used as a short-term substitute. Never use cow’s milk, as it can cause digestive problems and is not nutritionally adequate.
How do I know if a baby possum is dehydrated?
Signs of dehydration include lethargy, sunken eyes, and skin tenting (when you gently pinch the skin on the back of the neck, it stays elevated instead of snapping back). If you suspect dehydration, offer a pediatric electrolyte solution like Pedialyte (unflavored) immediately, and contact a wildlife rehabilitator.
How do I stimulate a baby possum to urinate and defecate?
Use a soft cloth or cotton ball dampened with warm water. Gently wipe the genital area in a circular motion after each feeding. This mimics the behavior of the mother possum and stimulates elimination.
What temperature should I keep a baby possum’s enclosure?
Very young joeys need a temperature of 90-95°F (32-35°C). As they grow older, you can gradually reduce the temperature to 80-85°F (27-29°C). Use a heating pad wrapped in a towel to provide warmth, but ensure the possum has the option to move away from the heat source if it gets too warm.
What do baby possums eat besides formula?
As they get older, you can start introducing solid foods such as small pieces of fruits (e.g., berries, melon), vegetables (e.g., cooked sweet potato, green beans), and insects (e.g., mealworms). Offer a variety of foods to ensure they get a balanced diet.
How do I know when a baby possum is ready to be released?
A baby possum is ready for release when it is fully furred, independent, and able to forage for food on its own. Consult with a wildlife rehabilitator to determine the appropriate release criteria and location.
Is it legal to keep a baby possum as a pet?
In most places, it is illegal to keep a baby possum as a pet without the proper permits. Wildlife laws are designed to protect native animals and ensure they receive appropriate care. Always contact your local wildlife agency for information on regulations and permits.
What should I do if I find a baby possum with injuries?
If you find a baby possum with injuries, provide immediate first aid by keeping it warm and comfortable. Contact a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible. Do not attempt to treat the injuries yourself.
Can a baby possum survive without its mother?
While a baby possum can survive without its mother with proper care, it requires intensive intervention. Their chances of survival are significantly higher with the care of a trained wildlife rehabilitator.
What are the signs of a healthy baby possum?
A healthy baby possum is alert, active, and has a good appetite. It should also have regular bowel movements and urine output. Monitor the possum closely for any signs of illness or distress.
Where is the best place to release a baby possum?
The best place to release a baby possum is in a wooded area with a variety of food sources and suitable shelter. Choose a location that is away from roads and human development, and that is appropriate for possums.