Info on Malocclusion...

Malocclusion occurs when the animal has an overbite, underbite, or wrong position of the teeth. Squirrels teeth grow throughout their lives. The teeth need to be lined up during the chewing of foods in order to keep the teeth at the right length. Teeth which do not line up will continue to grow, preventing the animal from eating. They will continue to grow, eventually piercing the roof or floor of the mouth..

Symptoms...

1. Difficulty chewing
2. Weight loss
3. Overgrown teeth
4. Mouth sores

If the animal is able to eat with no problem, nothing needs to be done. If it can not eat on its own, treatment is required. The teeth may just need to be trimmed to make them even. Often the teeth will grow back correctly and the problem is fixed.

Trimming of the teeth should not be attempted without instruction, and should only be tried if you have absolutely no access to a vet. If this is your case, please post, and we will help you.

Here is a picture of a female squirrel that could not eat or drink properly. Her incisors were not properly aligned because of malocclusion caused by a cleft palate. Incisors were overgrown preventing her from chewing, swallowing or closing her mouth properly. DO NOT try this at home! This is a pic of a professional who knows exactly what they are doing!