Orphaned Raccoon Care: A Complete Guide to Feeding a Baby Raccoon
Finding a baby raccoon can be a heartwarming but also daunting experience. These seemingly helpless creatures require specialized care, particularly when it comes to feeding. This comprehensive guide provides detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to feed a baby raccoon, ensuring its survival and healthy development. **Important Disclaimer:** *Raising a wild animal is illegal in many areas. Contact your local wildlife rehabilitation center or animal control immediately. This guide is for emergency situations where professional help is unavailable in the very short term. It does not advocate keeping a raccoon as a pet.*
## Assessment: Determining the Raccoon’s Needs
Before you even consider feeding the baby raccoon, you need to assess its condition. Observe the following:
* **Age:** Determining the raccoon’s age is crucial for proper feeding. Here’s a general guideline:
* **Newborn (eyes closed, ears folded):** Requires feeding every 2-3 hours. Cannot regulate its own body temperature and needs constant warmth.
* **1-3 weeks old (eyes opening, ears unfolding):** Requires feeding every 3-4 hours. Still needs assistance with temperature regulation.
* **4-6 weeks old (walking, teeth erupting):** Requires feeding every 4-6 hours. Can regulate body temperature better but still needs supplemental warmth.
* **6+ weeks old (active, exploring):** Requires feeding every 6-8 hours. Starting to explore solid foods.
* **Condition:** Is the raccoon injured? Weak? Dehydrated? Look for obvious signs of trauma, like bleeding, broken limbs, or difficulty breathing. Dehydration can be assessed by gently pinching the skin on the back of the neck. If it stays tented, the raccoon is likely dehydrated.
* **Location:** Where did you find the raccoon? Is there any sign of the mother nearby? Sometimes, mothers leave their young to forage for food. Observe from a distance for a few hours to see if the mother returns. *Do not approach the raccoon if the mother is present.*
## Immediate First Aid and Preparation
* **Warmth:** Baby raccoons, especially newborns, are highly susceptible to hypothermia. Provide a warm, safe environment. A cardboard box lined with soft towels or fleece works well. You can use a heating pad set on low, wrapped in a towel, or a hot water bottle (also wrapped in a towel) to provide warmth. Ensure the raccoon has space to move away from the heat source if it gets too warm.
* **Hydration:** Dehydration is a major threat to orphaned baby raccoons. Before offering formula, provide an electrolyte solution like unflavored Pedialyte. This helps rehydrate the raccoon and stabilize its condition. Administer the electrolyte solution using a syringe (without a needle) or a small dropper. Give small amounts frequently (e.g., 1-2 ml every 15-20 minutes) until the raccoon is rehydrated. Do not give cow’s milk, as it can cause digestive upset.
* **Hygiene:** Wear disposable gloves when handling the baby raccoon to protect yourself from potential diseases and to minimize transferring your scent to the animal. Keep the raccoon’s environment clean to prevent infections.
## Choosing the Right Formula
Selecting the appropriate formula is critical for the raccoon’s health and growth. Avoid cow’s milk, as it’s not easily digestible for raccoons. Ideal options include:
* **Puppy Milk Replacer (PMR):** This is the most commonly recommended formula for baby raccoons. Brands like Esbilac or PetLac are readily available at pet stores. Ensure you purchase the powdered form.
* **Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR):** While not ideal as a long-term solution, KMR can be used in a pinch if PMR is unavailable. It has a slightly different nutritional composition but is still a better option than cow’s milk.
* **Goat’s Milk Based Formula:** Some wildlife rehabilitators recommend using a goat’s milk-based formula specifically designed for wildlife. These formulas often contain added nutrients and probiotics beneficial for young animals. Consult with a wildlife expert if you’re considering this option.
## Preparing the Formula
* **Mixing:** Follow the instructions on the formula packaging carefully. Typically, you’ll mix the powdered formula with warm water to create a smooth, lump-free consistency. Use distilled or filtered water to avoid introducing contaminants.
* **Consistency:** The formula should be slightly thicker than human baby formula but not too thick to be easily sucked through a nipple. If the formula seems too thin, add a small amount of powdered formula until you achieve the desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more water.
* **Temperature:** The formula should be lukewarm – similar to the temperature you would give to a human baby. Test the temperature by placing a few drops on your wrist. It should feel comfortably warm, not hot or cold.
* **Freshness:** Always prepare fresh formula for each feeding. Discard any leftover formula after each feeding to prevent bacterial growth.
## Feeding Equipment
* **Syringe (without needle):** For very young raccoons (newborns to 3 weeks old), a 1 ml or 3 ml syringe (without a needle!) is the best option. This allows you to control the amount of formula delivered and prevent aspiration.
* **Small Pet Nurser Bottle:** As the raccoon grows older (3+ weeks), you can transition to a small pet nurser bottle with a nipple specifically designed for puppies or kittens. Make sure the nipple has a small hole to allow the formula to flow easily but not too quickly.
* **Dropper:** A dropper can be used for initial hydration with electrolyte solutions but is not ideal for long-term formula feeding as it doesn’t simulate natural nursing.
## The Feeding Process: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Preparation:**
* Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
* Prepare the formula according to the instructions above.
* Gather your feeding equipment (syringe or bottle).
* Create a quiet, comfortable feeding environment.
* Wrap the baby raccoon in a soft towel to provide security and prevent messes.
2. **Positioning:**
* Hold the baby raccoon in a natural, upright nursing position – similar to how it would nurse from its mother. Do not feed the raccoon on its back, as this can increase the risk of aspiration.
* Support the raccoon’s head and neck with one hand.
3. **Introducing the Formula:**
* **Syringe Feeding:** Gently insert the tip of the syringe into the corner of the raccoon’s mouth. Slowly depress the plunger, allowing the raccoon to suckle at its own pace. Do not force the formula, as this can cause choking.
* **Bottle Feeding:** Gently touch the nipple to the raccoon’s lips to encourage it to latch on. Once the raccoon is latched on, tilt the bottle slightly to allow formula to flow into the nipple. Monitor the flow of formula and adjust the angle of the bottle as needed.
4. **Feeding Amount:**
* The amount of formula to feed depends on the raccoon’s age and weight. A general guideline is to feed approximately 5-7% of the raccoon’s body weight per feeding. For example, a 100-gram raccoon would need approximately 5-7 ml of formula per feeding.
* Observe the raccoon’s cues. It will usually turn its head away or stop sucking when it’s full. Do not force the raccoon to finish the entire feeding if it’s not hungry.
* Refer to this chart for more age-related feeding volume guides. **Note:** *These are just starting points and may need adjusting based on individual raccoon’s needs.*:
* **Newborn (eyes closed):** 1-2 ml per feeding, every 2-3 hours.
* **1-3 weeks:** 2-4 ml per feeding, every 3-4 hours.
* **4-6 weeks:** 5-10 ml per feeding, every 4-6 hours.
* **6+ weeks:** 10-20 ml per feeding, every 6-8 hours. Gradually introduce solid foods.
5. **Burping:**
* After each feeding, gently burp the baby raccoon by holding it upright against your shoulder and patting its back gently. This helps release any trapped air in its stomach and prevents discomfort.
6. **Cleaning:**
* Use a warm, damp cloth to gently clean the raccoon’s face and mouth after each feeding. This helps prevent skin irritation and infections.
* Thoroughly clean and sterilize all feeding equipment after each use to prevent bacterial growth.
## Stimulating Elimination
Baby raccoons, like many newborn mammals, cannot eliminate on their own for the first few weeks of their lives. Their mother stimulates them to urinate and defecate by licking their anal and genital area. You will need to mimic this process.
* **Timing:** Stimulate elimination after each feeding.
* **Materials:** Use a soft, warm, damp cloth or cotton ball.
* **Technique:** Gently rub the anal and genital area in a circular motion. This should stimulate the raccoon to urinate and defecate. Continue until the raccoon stops eliminating.
* **Hygiene:** Clean the raccoon and its environment after each elimination.
## Weaning and Introducing Solid Foods
As the baby raccoon grows older (around 6 weeks), you can start introducing solid foods alongside formula.
* **Start Slowly:** Begin with small amounts of soft, easily digestible foods.
* **Food Options:**
* **Mashed fruits and vegetables:** Bananas, sweet potatoes, avocados, and cooked carrots are good options.
* **Cooked chicken or turkey:** Shredded into small pieces.
* **High-quality kitten or puppy food:** Soak the dry food in water to soften it.
* **Scrambled eggs:** Cooked without salt or seasoning.
* **Gradual Transition:** Gradually increase the amount of solid food and decrease the amount of formula as the raccoon shows interest in eating solid foods.
* **Water:** Always provide fresh, clean water in a shallow dish.
## Monitoring and Adjusting
* **Weight:** Weigh the baby raccoon daily to monitor its growth. A healthy raccoon should gain weight steadily.
* **Appetite:** Observe the raccoon’s appetite and adjust the amount of formula and solid food accordingly.
* **Stool:** Monitor the raccoon’s stool. Changes in stool consistency or color can indicate digestive problems.
* **Veterinary Care:** Consult with a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator if you have any concerns about the raccoon’s health or development.
## Common Problems and Solutions
* **Diarrhea:** Can be caused by overfeeding, incorrect formula, or infection. Reduce the amount of formula and consult with a veterinarian.
* **Constipation:** Can be caused by dehydration or lack of fiber. Offer more fluids and add a small amount of prune juice to the formula. Consult with a veterinarian if constipation persists.
* **Aspiration:** Occurs when formula enters the lungs. Stop feeding immediately and hold the raccoon upside down to help clear its airways. Seek immediate veterinary care.
* **Dehydration:** Provide electrolyte solution and seek veterinary care.
* **Hypothermia:** Warm the raccoon gradually and seek veterinary care.
## Releasing the Raccoon Back into the Wild
*This should only be done under the guidance of a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.* Releasing a raccoon back into the wild requires careful planning and preparation. The raccoon must be healthy, independent, and capable of finding food and shelter on its own. It’s crucial to choose a suitable release site that is far from human habitation and provides access to natural food sources and water. Gradual acclimatization to the outdoors in a safe, enclosed area is recommended before full release.
## Important Considerations and Legalities
* **Legality:** It is illegal to keep a wild animal as a pet in most jurisdictions. Contact your local wildlife authorities or animal control for information on the laws in your area.
* **Zoonotic Diseases:** Raccoons can carry diseases that are transmissible to humans, such as rabies, raccoon roundworm, and leptospirosis. Wear gloves when handling raccoons and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Seek medical attention if you are bitten or scratched.
* **Professional Help:** The best option for an orphaned baby raccoon is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. These professionals have the expertise and resources to provide the best possible care for the animal and ensure its successful release back into the wild.
By following these detailed instructions, you can provide the necessary care to help an orphaned baby raccoon survive until professional help arrives. Remember, this guide is for emergency situations only, and it’s crucial to seek expert assistance as soon as possible. The well-being of the raccoon and your own safety should always be the top priorities. *Contacting a professional is always the best option for long-term animal welfare.*