Kangaroo Page

1. Put the kangaroo in a pouch (such as a pillow case or cotton bag) that is not too big for its size and wrap in a blanket or put in a second thicker bag. A baby bouncer or hanging frame can be used or hang the bag up between feeds. If it is very small it will need additional heat such as a covered hot water bottle or heating pad in the bag. Furless joeys need to be kept at about 32 degrees constantly.

2. Weigh the kangaroo and measure the tail and foot to get an idea of age and the amount of formula to feed and which strength of formula is suitable.

3. The kangaroo must be warm before you attempt to feed it. There are a variety of formulas that can be used - Wombaroo, Biolac, Di-vetelact etc. In an emergency Lactose Free Milk can be used for a short time but lacks the special nutrients specialised formula have. KANGAROOS ARE ALLERGIC TO COWS MILK.

4. Pinkies (unfurred joeys) need frequent small feeds. Different sized teats are available that are suitable for in pouch or out of pouch joeys. If a Joey is difficult to feed make sure it is warm and in a close fitting pouch. Cover its eyes and sometimes a finger under the chin will encourage it to suck.

5. Once the Joey is furred it can be offered small pieces of fruit, apple, banana, pear, carrot etc. gradually increasing the size until it is cut into the size of kiwi fruit in quarters. Roots of grass with earth attached should be offered, also Lucerne, kangaroo pellets, Completo and muesli.

6. If the kangaroo develops diarrhea which lasts more than a few days take a sample to the vet to find the cause. Carrot Soup (recipe in Kangaroo Notes) is often effective with chronic diarrhea. NEVER GIVE A KANGAROO ANTIBIOTICS BY MOUTH, THIS ALWAYS RESULTS IN DIARRHOEA. Plenty of liquids should be given to avoid dehydration. Acidophilus either powdered tablets or in the form of yoghourt should be given to assist the gut flora after a bout of diarrhea or antibiotics.

7. Kangaroos can suffer from a variety of illnesses. If your kangaroo goes off its feed, refuses more than one bottle or becomes lethargic, seek professional help urgently.

8. Cleanliness is essential. Sterilize bottles and teats, and change the pouch every time it gets wet or soiled or has milk dribbled on it.

9. Pouched joeys will need to be toileted, read the kangaroo notes, they have more detailed information (and are being rewritten to make easier reading).

10.Kangaroos also eat many things that are not good for them such as newspapers, books, shoe laces, carpet, favorite pot plants, sheepskin and anything chewable.

These are only very basic instructions, please consult an experienced kangaroo carer for more detailed information.

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Western Grey Joey	Red Kangaroo Joey	Euro or Wallaroo