Rodenticide A Likely Cause Of Illness For A Red Fox

The following story was shared with us by Amy Stevens, a home-based wildlife rehabber in southern Ohio.

red fox lying on towelA red fox came into rehab in Spring 2019. This young female was seen walking slowly in an urban environment and was not showing fear of humans. She was unable to scamper or run away. The finder was able to gently lift the animal into a carrier and transported her to our facility.

The animal clearly showed signs of malnutrition, her ribs were visible, she was weak and frail, and unable to lift her head.

We immediately suspected rodenticide poisoning. She was quickly seen by our local veterinarian and proceeded with a CBC test. We knew right away to provide her with electrolytes and ensure she was able to have urinary output before feeding her.

Due to her condition and the fact that she was unable to stand, she showed no interest in food. We knew our only option was syringe-feeding of EmerAid Intensive Care Carnivore. This solution, given 4 to 5 times per day, was the only way to provide immediate nutrition and much-needed calories.

The image shows when she was at her worst. With constant medication and continued supportive care and the nutrition from EmerAid, she was able to stand after a week or so and was able to self-feed. EmerAid was her only savior to get quick nutrition in her debilitated and emaciated body.

Once she fully recovered, she was transferred to another rehab facility where she could be with another fox, as seen in the pre-release cage picture. She was released on Labor Day 2019.