Treating Open Wounds in Squirrels
Caring for an injured or orphaned squirrel often begins with identifying and gently treating wounds. Whether you’ve just rescued a baby squirrel or are caring for one recently adopted, safe and proper wound care is essential for recovery and survival.
⚠️ Always warm a cold squirrel before beginning any wound care. Hypothermic animals cannot digest, heal, or respond to treatment. See our How to Warm a Baby Squirrel guide before proceeding.
Step 1: Clean the Baby
Once the squirrel is warm and stable, place it in a quiet, well-lit environment free from pets or children. Lay the baby on a soft, light-colored towel to spot any signs of blood, parasites, or debris.
- Use a mild diluted cleanser like baby shampoo, unscented dish soap (such as Dawn), or just warm water.
- Wet a soft cloth, wring it out, and gently clean the squirrel with light, wiping motions, similar to how a mother squirrel would lick her young.
- Be sure to check folds of skin and remove any external parasites like fleas or ticks.
Pro tip: Always replace soiled bedding immediately. Wash with hot water and discard any wild nesting material to prevent re-infestation.
Step 2: Identify and Treat Wounds
Carefully examine the squirrel’s body, paying close attention to:
- Blood or cuts on the face, nose, mouth, or eyes
- Puncture wounds (especially from falls or animal attacks)
- Fly eggs or maggots, often found around wounds, eyes, or genital areas
Fly eggs appear as small, white grains stuck to fur or skin and are a strong indicator the baby is orphaned. These must be removed immediately to prevent further injury.
Treating Minor Wounds
Flush wounds using:
- Warm sterile water
- Saline solution
- Diluted Betadine or wound-safe cleansers like Bactine
❌ Never use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol. These are too harsh for baby squirrels and can damage delicate tissue.
For cuts or abrasions:
- Use triple antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin®) on young babies (eyes still closed) who won’t lick the wound.
- For older squirrels, opt for a non-ingestible ointment such as Neo Poly Dex, especially around eyes or mouth.
Important: If a Cat Was Involved
Even if no puncture wounds are visible, a baby caught by a cat must receive antibiotics. Cats carry harmful bacteria that can cause fatal infections in squirrels.
A squirrel injured by a cat should not be returned to the wild or reunited with its mother. Please consult a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator for antibiotic care.
Antibiotics and Gut Health in Squirrels
Never give penicillin, amoxicillin, or tetracycline orally to squirrels—these can cause severe gut issues and fatal diarrhea.
Safe oral antibiotics for squirrels (under vet supervision):
- Baytril (Enrofloxacin)
- Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim (SMZ/TMP)
If oral antibiotics cause diarrhea:
- Provide plain yogurt or acidophilus powder at least 2 hours before or after administering antibiotics to help restore healthy gut bacteria.
When to Seek Professional Help
While basic wound care is safe for minor injuries, do not attempt to treat severe injuries, broken limbs, or extensive infections on your own. Contact a wildlife-experienced veterinarian or a licensed rehabilitator for support.