In the wild a baby bat would feed on its mother’s milk. In care, a substitute for the mother’s milk is required.
Milk substitutes should be low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fat. The decision as to which milk substitute product to use should be based on experience, success and with discussion from other more experienced carers.
New carers should contact BCT or more experienced carers to discuss options for milk substitutes.
All milk substitutes should be offered warm to the bat.
Once the bat is rehydrated milk can be administered with a fine paintbrush, a small plastic syringe or a pastette.
This is a learning experience for both bat and carer. This method should be tried with water in the first instance.
Feeding should be little and often to begin with; a small, very shallow, clean container with a few drops of water left in the cage with the baby will allow the baby to drink in between these times. This should be replenished on a regular basis.
Bigger babies approaching weaning can be fed less often as they will take more at each feed.
Most babies will back away when they have satisfied their appetite.
Frequency and quantity will vary with different milk substitutes so advice should be sought.
Milk should be provided fresh for every feed.
It is important to avoid food or water entering the bat’s nostrils and causing breathing difficulties, or spilling food or water down the bat’s chin and chest as this can cause irritation and fur loss. Avoid ‘mopping’ spills as this damages fur, instead these spills should be lifted off gently with a tissue or similar absorbent material.
Any water container left in the cage should be very shallow so that the bat doesn’t drown or sit in the water and lose heat from evaporation.
Consider dehydration – a thirsty pup might overfeed, or may dribble deliberately. Extra water can be given from a clean paintbrush, syringe or pastette.
When the time is right a baby bat can be slowly weaned onto mini mealworms.