Stage 4 — Formula, Feeding & Complications

The Ottawa-Carleton chipmunk protocol uses powdered Esbilac prepared as directed for the product. Merck also lists 2 parts Fox Valley 32/40 to 3 parts water, or 1 part Esbilac powder + ½ part MultiMilk + 2 parts water, as accepted squirrel milk-replacer options. Do not substitute cow’s milk, human infant cereal, sweetened milk, condensed milk or improvised kitchen mixtures.

1. Warm only the amount of formula needed for the feeding; keep prepared formula refrigerated and discard according to product directions.
2. Wrap the chipmunk gently in a small cloth so the body is supported and the animal cannot launch away.
3. Keep the head neutral and body upright/belly-down.
4. Allow the chipmunk to pull tiny amounts from the syringe; do not push a stream into the mouth.
5. Watch the nose and breathing continuously.
6. Wipe the face with a damp cloth after feeding so dried formula does not irritate skin or mat fur.

1. Stop feeding immediately.
2. Allow the head/nose to point downward briefly so fluid can drain; do not shake the animal.
3. Wipe the nose and mouth gently.
4. Watch breathing closely. Clicking, wheezing, labored breathing, persistent nasal discharge, lethargy or reduced appetite after aspiration requires veterinary/rehabilitator assessment for aspiration pneumonia.
5. Do not resume at the same speed or volume.

Young chipmunks may require stimulation before and after feeds. Hold the infant over a soft cloth and use a warm damp fingertip, cotton pad or swab with light feathery strokes over the genital/anogenital area until urination and/or stool occurs. Continue until the bladder has emptied. Stop routine stimulation only after the animal is consistently eliminating on its own.

Chipmunk rehabilitation decisions should be based on the animal’s age, body weight, medical condition, species, season and release habitat. These references provide the practical and veterinary framework used throughout this pathway.