Fox Squirrels
I am trying
to raise orphaned fox squirrels- using half multi milk and half
Esbolac® as formula. I am concerned about mange in fox squirrels. How
to detect it, treat it and housing hygiene for affected critters. For
example, tossing out the uneaten nut shavings- will it pollute the
environment?, washing bedding and my clothes- is a regular wash enough?
Does it spread only through touch/contact ? Thank you
All
squirrels are susceptible to mange, as are dogs and cats. Mange makes
them itch severely, and causes a rash on their skin. They loose hair
over affected areas, due to the scratching. Mites spread over short
distances, by crawling from one host to another, and by direct contact.
Mite infestations are easily treated with topical anti-mange shampoos
and dips, available for puppies and kittens, such as lime sulfur.
Soiled litter should be placed in the trash daily, and replaced with
new. I do not consider this as environmental contamination.
Cleanliness, including hand washing after handling, and cleaning the
cage daily is usually sufficient. Your veterinarian can perform a fecal
analysis on a submitted stool sample to identify common parasites
squirrels carry. If you suspect mites, your veterinarian can provide
you with the special shampoo you will need.
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