Hand feeding? Help!

[jewell2069]

I have had many litters of kits born over the years, but today my Chinchilla gave birth to her first set of triplets! baby number#1 is very healthy and good sized, baby#2 is a little smaller, yet still healthy and energetic, but baby#3 is about 1/4th the size of both the other babies and appears to be premature. I am very worried about baby#3 and I think it would be beneficial for it to get the extra nutrition, does anyone have any suggestions or experience on the issue? or what formula recipe is best? Thanks!

 

[lauralynne]

http://www.chins-n-hedgies.com/forums/showthread.php?t=21

 

[Encantadora]

Depending on size, his chances may not be so good. These guys often don't make it, it's not uncommon. Try supplementing but don't take him from mom unless he's bullied or some reason.

 

[VolunteerChin22]

Unless they are fighting there is no need to handfeed at this point - the mom's milk is best and if you think he needs extra time with mom then rotate the bigger two out every two hours before you start supplementing. I always try rotating before handfeeding.

 

[Dreamlite]

Is he nursing on his own? I never step in unless they aren't nursing or are bullied by the other kits. If he is premature he might not make it.

 

[jewell2069]

Thank you! He is being bullied by the other kits, and he is doing well with the handfeeding! He is so small that he can't not lift his head to nurse, and would not latch. I have been holding thr mom and letting him try to nurse, and he is starting to respond and try to latch with much difficulty. They were born Tuesday morning and his eyes are just starting to open up. Round the clock feedings of a fresh goatmilk mixture is working quite well. I will post a few pictures when I upload them to my computer.

 

[Pookinaround]

Sounds like you are doing your best to give the little guy a fighting chance. Fingers crossed that he makes it. Wishing you all the best!

 

[ArmyWife]

Please keep us updated! Great job!

 

[Riven]

These situations are the hardest, you know they have a high risk for not making it, but all of the time you spend with them makes it impossible not to get attached emotionally. Just remember that in spite all of your efforts and progress kits like these may grow and appear healthy then before 6 weeks of age die without warning. Often there just was not enough time for everything to develop properly. I wish you the best of luck with him!

 

[VolunteerChin22]

These situations are the hardest, you know they have a high risk for not making it, but all of the time you spend with them makes it impossible not to get attached emotionally. Just remember that in spite all of your efforts and progress kits like these may grow and appear healthy then before 6 weeks of age die without warning. Often there just was not enough time for everything to develop properly. I wish you the best of luck with him!

I agree. Good luck with him!