I Found A Baby Skunk, Can I Feed It?

It is not uncommon to come across a baby skunk that has been separated from its mother. When this happens, it can be difficult to know what to do. Human instincts dictate that you want to give the baby food, water and shelter. Unfortunately, this is not the right thing to do.

You should never feed an orphaned skunk. They are omnivores with a diet that includes many various food types. However, it can be easy to give them the wrong type of food and cause serious illness or injury to the animal.

Some foods can cause serious digestive issues, especially if the animal is not healthy. When the animal gets to a wildlife rehabber or veterinarian, it will need to be examined thoroughly. This will be easier and yield more accurate results if you haven’t fed the animal.

Feeding an orphaned baby skunk can cause bloating, shock and a whole host of other digestive issues. This is especially true when a baby squirrel has been orphaned. The animal may already be dehydrated, suffering from trauma or other shock. Adding food just exacerbates these issues.



What you Should Do

Baby skunks are very special creatures. They may look cute and cuddly, but they are still wild animals. Even baby skunks can spray that obnoxious, stinging liquid and must be approached with caution.

Skunks have poor eyesight and can’t climb well, either. You must approach them slowly while speaking with a gentle voice. Sudden movements and loud noises will startle them.

Even baby squirrels can spray that obnoxious odor when frightened. It stings the skin and lingers on clothing. This is their only form of defense and it is difficult to get rid of. Skunks typically stomp their front paws and puff up before they spray. If the little guys display this posture, you should stop.

Baby skunks need a constant heat source and a soft, dry place to hunker down. Many rehabbers use a heating pad on the lowest setting or a hot water bottle. It is kept in the crate with the little animal so that it can curl up next to its heat source.

Keep the skunk in a dark, quiet place away from household pets and children. Skunks carry diseases and can often transmit rabies. Call a local wildlife rehabber or wildlife management team immediately. They will likely come and pick up the animal. It will be given a thorough examination, possible medical attention and then relocated to a suitable place.


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