Newborn raccoons, also known as kits, rely heavily on their mother’s milk for nutrition in their early days. If you ever encounter an abandoned baby raccoon, understanding their dietary needs is crucial.
Mother Raccoons and Their Milk
Mother raccoons provide their young with rich, nutritious milk that helps them grow. This mother’s milk is specially formulated for the baby raccoon’s needs and is the best food for them during the first few weeks.
Milk Replacement Options
If a baby raccoon has been left alone, you can feed it a milk replacement formula. Suitable options include KMR or Esbilac, which are kitten milk replacements. Cow’s milk and goat’s milk are not ideal as they can lead to malnutrition.
How to Feed a Baby Raccoon
When feeding your baby raccoon, use a human baby bottle or a syringe. Start with an eyedropper if the raccoon is very young. Make sure the baby is slightly upright to prevent choking.
Signs of Dehydration
Keep an eye on the baby raccoon’s health. Signs of dehydration include sunken eyes and a lack of energy. If the baby seems mildly dehydrated, a rehydration solution like Pedialyte can be helpful.
Introducing Solid Foods
As the raccoon grows, you can gradually introduce solid foods. Start with soft fruits and vegetables. Raccoons are omnivores, so they enjoy a variety of foods.
Stimulating a Baby Raccoon
Newborn raccoons often need stimulation to urinate and defecate. Use a warm washcloth or feather to gently massage their back, mimicking the mother’s care.
When to Seek Wildlife Rehabilitation
If you find a baby raccoon that has been abandoned, consider contacting wildlife rehabilitation. They have the expertise to care for orphaned wild animals and ensure they receive the right nutrition and care.
What Do Newborn Raccoons Eat?
Newborn raccoons primarily rely on their mother’s milk for nourishment. If a baby raccoon has been left alone, it’s crucial to provide a suitable milk replacement formula. The best options include kitten milk replacement like KMR or Esbilac. These formulas closely mimic the nutrients found in a mother raccoon’s milk.
What Do Newborn Raccoons Eat at Night?
At night, raccoons are naturally more active as they are nocturnal creatures. Newborns still depend on milk during these hours. If you’re caring for an orphan baby raccoon, ensure you feed it the milk replacement formula every few hours.
Baby Raccoon Feeding Chart
A baby raccoon feeding chart can help you track how much to feed your little one. Generally, newborn raccoons should consume about 1/4 ounce of formula every 2 to 3 hours. As they grow, this amount will increase. Always monitor their body weight to ensure they are gaining appropriately.
When Can Baby Raccoons Eat Solid Food?
Baby raccoons can start eating solid foods around 4 to 6 weeks of age. Initially, introduce soft, easily digestible foods like mashed fruits or specially formulated raccoon food. It’s essential to continue offering their milk replacement until they are fully weaned.
How to Tell How Old a Baby Raccoon Is
To determine the age of a baby raccoon, consider its size and development. Newborns are typically hairless and have closed eyes. By 3 weeks, they may start to grow fur and open their eyes. If you encounter an abandoned baby raccoon, age can help you decide the best way to feed it and care for its needs.
FAQ
What is the best formula to feed a baby raccoon?
The best formulas for feeding a baby raccoon are KMR and Esbilac, as they mimic mother’s milk closely. Avoid using cow’s milk or goat’s milk, as these can lead to malnutrition.
How often should I feed a baby raccoon?
Feed your baby raccoon every 2 to 3 hours, ensuring it gets enough nutrition. Use an eyedropper or syringe for younger or more vulnerable raccoons.
What signs indicate a baby raccoon is dehydrated?
Signs of dehydration in a baby raccoon include sunken eyes, lethargy, and a dry mouth. If you notice these symptoms, consider giving a rehydration solution, like Pedialyte diluted with water.
Can I make a homemade milk replacement?
Yes, if commercial formulas are unavailable, you can make a homemade milk replacement using a mix of goat’s milk, heavy cream, and yogurt. However, this should only be a temporary solution.
What should I do if I find an orphan baby raccoon?
If you find an orphan baby raccoon, it’s essential to evaluate its condition. Make sure to keep it warm and provide a suitable milk replacement. Contact a wildlife rehabilitation center for further assistance.
