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I found a small, injured baby squirrel. What should I do to help?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

I found a very small squirrel outside about an hour ago. Not sure if it is a baby because it is about 5 inches long and has a fluffy tail, but it is not moving much and seems to be hurt and in distress. There is some crusted blood in its ears and a tender spot on the side that could be a cut. I've made it a shoe box bed but have not seen the mom yet. What should I do from here?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on April 18th, 2019

Ideally, you should contact a local wildlife rehabilitator. The local veterinary clinic may have a list of local rehabbers. A rehabber will have the knowledge, experience and contacts to allow the squirrel its best chance at recovery and eventual release. Keep it warm and as stress free as possible until you contact a rehabilitator.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jennifer Ladd, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 28th, 2017
Poor thing. These babies can be really tough and chances are he may need to be tube fed or bottle fed. This needs to be done by a certified rehaber. I know your region is pretty devasted but try to find a veterinarian or a rehaber right away. This is not something that should or can be done well at home .
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Veterinarian
Published on August 29th, 2017
Oh no! In my experience, squirrels are very difficult to rehab at this age as they have very specific nutritional requirements and are prone to bloat and other intestinal issues. You really need to get Harvy to a qualified wildlife rehab facility right away if he is to have any chance at survival. Good luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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