Neonatal opossums are best fed from a bottle or an eyedropper.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only at night
• D. Only if mother present

Answer: (B)

Neonatal opossums need a feeding method that mimics natural nursing and delivers milk slowly with a secure latch to minimize aspiration. A bottle or an eyedropper often flows too quickly or inconsistently, making it easy for milk to pool in the mouth or be inhaled, which can lead to respiratory problems. In rehab, the preferred approach is to use a syringe or a very small, soft teat that allows controlled, slow flow and a latch that resembles nursing from a pouch teat. This method supports safe swallowing, helps maintain proper intake, and reduces the risk of choking or aspiration.

The timing or whether a mother is present doesn’t change the basic feeding principle. Even with a mother, the goal is to allow nursing with a teat that matches the joey’s needs; when the mother isn’t present, replicating that nursing mechanism with the appropriate teat is essential.