Raccoons are intelligent and curious animals, but they can also be quite mischievous. One common problem that many raccoon owners face is their pet raccoon’s tendency to gulp down its food too quickly, leading to uncomfortable burping and gas.
Burping a baby raccoon is an important step in the process of caring for a young raccoon because it helps to release trapped air in the stomach, which can cause discomfort and even pain for the animal. Additionally, burping can also help to prevent the formation of gas bubbles, which can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.
In this blog post, we will discuss the reasons why raccoons may burp and some tips on how to prevent it. We will also share some home remedies that can help alleviate any discomfort caused by excessive burping.
Whether you’re a new raccoon owner or have been caring for your pet for years, this guide will provide you with the information you need to keep your raccoon healthy and happy.
How To Burp A Baby Raccoon?
To properly burp a baby raccoon, you should hold the animal against your shoulder and gently pat its back until it burps. Let’s get into more detail about this process:
- Hold the baby raccoon upright against your chest, with its head slightly elevated.
- Gently pat or rub its back until it burps.
- If the raccoon does not burp after a few minutes, try gently massaging its tummy.
- Be patient and continue to hold the raccoon in an upright position until it burps.
1. Hold The Baby Raccoon Upright Against Your Chest, With Its Head Slightly Elevated.
This allows any trapped air to escape from its stomach and prevents the raccoon from choking or experiencing discomfort. It’s important to be gentle and support the raccoon’s head and body as you burp it.
2. Gently Pat Or Rub Its Back Until It Burps.
This can help release any trapped air bubbles in its stomach, which can prevent discomfort or pain. It’s important to be gentle and patient while burping the baby raccoon, as they may not burp right away.
3. If The Raccoon Does Not Burp After A Few Minutes, Try Gently Massaging Its Tummy.
When caring for a baby raccoon, it is important to ensure that they burp properly after feedings. If the raccoon does not burp after a few minutes, gently massaging its tummy can help to release trapped air and make burping more likely.
This can be done by gently rubbing the raccoon’s tummy in a circular motion, being careful to not apply too much pressure.
If you are still not able to get the raccoon to burp after a few minutes of gentle massaging, it is best to consult a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator for further advice.
4. Be Patient And Continue To Hold The Raccoon In An Upright Position Until It Burps.
It is important to be patient and hold them in an upright position until they burp. This helps to release any trapped air in their stomachs and can prevent them from experiencing discomfort or other issues.
How To Prepare For Burping A Raccoon?
To burp a raccoon, you will need a few materials:
- A towel or blanket: This will be used to wrap the raccoon to keep it warm and calm while being burped.
- A heating pad or hot water bottle: This will be placed on the raccoon’s stomach to help release any trapped gas.
- A baby bottle or syringe: This will be used to administer a small amount of warm water or formula to the raccoon to help release any trapped gas.
- A towel or cloth: This will be used to wipe the raccoon’s face and mouth after burping.
- A warm, quiet place: The raccoon should be placed in a warm, quiet place during the burping process to keep it calm and comfortable.
After preparing your tools, you generally need to be safe when dealing with any type of wild animal:
9 Crucial Steps For Handling Raccoons Safely
Here are some steps that will help you be safe during burping your baby raccoon:
- Wear gloves and protective clothing to prevent the spread of any potential diseases.
- Approach the baby raccoon slowly and calmly to avoid startling it.
- Place a towel or blanket over the raccoon to help keep it calm and still.
- Carefully pick up the raccoon by gently grasping its scruff (the loose skin on the back of its neck) to support its head and body.
- Keep the raccoon at a safe distance from your face and body to avoid bites or scratches.
- Place the raccoon in a secure and warm container, such as a box or crate, with a soft blanket or towel inside.
- Offer the raccoon fresh water and appropriate food, such as wet cat food or high-quality kitten formula.
- Monitor the raccoon’s behavior and health regularly, and seek the advice of a wildlife rehabilitation expert if necessary.
- Contact a wildlife rehabilitator or local animal control agency for assistance in safely releasing the raccoon back into the wild when it is old enough to survive on its own.
Okay, now you’re ready, safe, and even tried to burp your baby raccoon, but how do you know that your baby raccoon has burped?
3 Tips For Knowing When The Baby Raccoon Has Burped
Here are some tips that will help you identify the moment your raccoon burps:
- Listen for the sound of a burp: A baby raccoon will typically make a small burping sound after feeding. This can be a sign that the baby has successfully burped and is digesting its food properly.
- Observe the baby’s behavior: A baby raccoon that has just burped may appear content and relaxed, and may even fall asleep shortly after feeding. If the baby is still fussy or appears uncomfortable after feeding, it may not have burped yet.
- Check for a visible burp: Sometimes it is possible to see a visible burp from a baby raccoon. This may appear as a small puff of air or a bubble of milk being expelled from the baby’s mouth.
Follow-Up Care: Monitoring Any Signs Of Discomfort or Distress On Your Raccoon
To monitor a baby raccoon for signs of discomfort or distress, you should observe the animal for changes in behavior and physical appearance. Some signs to look for include:
- Loss of appetite or refusal to eat or drink
- Lethargy or lack of energy
- Difficulty breathing
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Abnormal vocalizations or crying
- Swelling or discharge from the eyes, ears, nose, or mouth
- Any visible injuries or wounds
- Shivering or trembling
- Unusual behavior or activity level
FAQs
Do You Have To Burp Baby Raccoons?
Raccoons, like all mammals, are born unable to digest solid food and are reliant on their mother’s milk for nutrition. They do not have to be burped like human babies.
However, if you are caring for orphaned raccoons, it is important to provide them with proper care and nutrition from a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Without proper care, they may not survive.
How Do You Treat Bloat In Baby Raccoons?
If you suspect a baby raccoon has bloat, it is important to seek treatment from a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible. Treatment for bloat typically involves stabilizing the animal’s condition, decompressing the stomach, and then addressing the underlying cause of the bloat.
To stabilize the animal, a veterinarian may administer fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration and shock. To decompress the stomach, a veterinarian may pass a tube through the animal’s nose or mouth, into the stomach, to remove the excess gas.
After the animal’s condition has been stabilized, the underlying cause of the bloat should be addressed. This may involve changes to the animal’s diet, feeding schedule, or feeding techniques.
It is important to note that bloat is a serious and life-threatening condition. If you suspect a raccoon has bloat, it is important to seek immediate treatment from a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, burping a baby raccoon is an important step in the process of caring for a young raccoon as it helps to release trapped air in the stomach, which can cause discomfort and even pain for the animal.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely and effectively burp your baby raccoon and provide them with the proper care and nutrition they need to thrive.[1]
It is important to be patient, gentle, and safe when handling raccoons, and to seek the advice of a wildlife rehabilitator if necessary. Additionally, it is important to monitor your raccoon for signs of discomfort or distress and seek treatment as soon as possible. With proper care and attention, your raccoon can grow to be a happy and healthy pet.
