What Should You Feed a Baby Deer to Ensure Its Health and Growth?

ByMargaret Harrison Baby Feeding

Introduction
Encountering a baby deer in the wild can be a heartwarming experience, but it also raises important questions about care and nutrition. Whether you’ve stumbled upon an orphaned fawn or are simply curious about the dietary needs of these delicate creatures, understanding what to feed a baby deer is crucial for its health and survival. As gentle grazers, fawns have specific nutritional requirements that differ from those of adult deer, making it essential to provide the right sustenance to support their growth and development. In this article, we will explore the best practices for feeding baby deer and highlight the vital role proper nutrition plays in their well-being.

When it comes to feeding a baby deer, it’s important to recognize that their dietary needs evolve as they grow. Newborn fawns primarily rely on their mother’s milk, which is rich in essential nutrients that help them thrive in their early weeks. However, if a fawn is separated from its mother, caregivers must step in to provide a suitable substitute. Understanding the appropriate milk replacers and feeding techniques can make a significant difference in the fawn’s recovery and growth.

As fawns transition from milk to solid food, their diet will diversify to include various natural forage options. This gradual shift is crucial for their development, as it helps them

What to Feed a Baby Deer

Feeding a baby deer, also known as a fawn, requires careful consideration of its nutritional needs, especially if it has been orphaned or is in a rehabilitation setting. It is essential to provide a diet that closely mimics what a fawn would receive from its mother to ensure proper growth and development.

The primary food source for fawns is their mother’s milk. If the fawn is less than three weeks old, it is crucial to replicate this diet as closely as possible. Here are key feeding options for different age ranges:

  • Newborn to 3 Weeks Old:
  • Milk Replacement Formula: Use a commercial milk replacer designed for deer or goats. Avoid cow’s milk, as it can cause digestive issues.
  • Feeding Schedule: Feed every 2-4 hours, ensuring the fawn is hydrated and receiving enough nutrition.
  • 3 Weeks to 8 Weeks Old:
  • Gradually introduce solid foods while continuing with the milk replacer.
  • Solid Food Options:
  • High-quality deer pellets
  • Fresh grass and clover
  • Alfalfa hay
  • 8 Weeks and Older:
  • Fawns can transition to a diet consisting primarily of solid foods.
  • Recommended Diet:
  • Deer pellets (high in protein)
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables (e.g., apples, carrots)
  • Natural forage (leaves, twigs, and shrubs)

Feeding Tips and Considerations

When feeding a baby deer, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure their safety and health:

  • Avoid Overfeeding: Monitor the fawn’s intake to prevent digestive problems.
  • Hygiene: Always use clean feeding equipment to prevent infections.
  • Temperature of Milk: Warm the milk replacer to body temperature before feeding to mimic the mother’s milk.
Age Diet Feeding Frequency
Newborn to 3 Weeks Milk replacer Every 2-4 hours
3 to 8 Weeks Milk replacer + solid foods (deer pellets, hay) Every 4-6 hours
8 Weeks and Older Solid foods (deer pellets, fruits, vegetables) As needed

Signs of Health Issues

Monitoring the health of a baby deer is critical. Be vigilant for the following signs that may indicate health issues:

  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Diarrhea or unusual stool
  • Poor appetite
  • Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes)

If any of these symptoms occur, consult a veterinarian experienced with wildlife. Prompt intervention can be crucial for the survival and health of the fawn.

Natural Diet of a Baby Deer

A baby deer, or fawn, primarily relies on its mother’s milk during the first few weeks of life. This milk is rich in nutrients and provides essential antibodies that help build the fawn’s immune system. As they grow, their diet gradually shifts to include solid food.

Recommended Milk Replacements

If a fawn is orphaned or unable to nurse, a suitable milk replacement is crucial. The following options are commonly recommended:

  • Commercial Milk Replacers: Specifically designed for deer, these products can be found at wildlife supply stores.
  • Goat’s Milk: A good alternative if commercial options are unavailable, but it should be supplemented with vitamins and minerals.
  • Esbilac Puppy Milk: This can be a temporary solution, though it lacks certain nutrients specific to deer.

Solid Food Introduction

Once the fawn is about four weeks old, you can begin introducing solid foods. The transition should be gradual to ensure proper digestion.

Types of Solid Foods

  • High-Quality Pellets: Specifically formulated deer pellets provide balanced nutrition.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Leafy greens, carrots, and apples can be introduced in small amounts.
  • Grains: Oats and corn can be offered, but should not be the primary food source.
  • Forbs and Grasses: Natural forage is ideal for mimicking their wild diet.

Feeding Schedule and Quantity

Feeding frequency and portion size will vary based on the fawn’s age and weight. Below is a general guideline:

Age (weeks) Frequency of Feeding Approximate Amount per Feeding
0-2 Every 2-4 hours 8-12 oz of milk
3-4 Every 4-6 hours 12-16 oz of milk
4-8 3-4 times a day 1-2 cups of solid food
8+ 2-3 times a day 2-3 cups of solid food

Hydration Needs

While fawns obtain most of their hydration from milk, it’s important to provide access to clean, fresh water as they begin to eat solids. Ensure that water sources are free from contaminants to promote health.

Important Nutritional Considerations

  • Calcium and Phosphorus: Critical for bone development, ensure a balanced ratio in their diet.
  • Vitamins: Vitamin A, D, and E are essential; consider supplements if natural sources are insufficient.
  • Avoid Certain Foods: Do not feed fawns chocolate, bread, or processed foods, as these can be harmful.

Monitoring Health

Regularly check the fawn for signs of health issues, including:

  • Weight Gain: Steady growth is a good indicator of health.
  • Feces: Should be firm and well-formed; diarrhea may indicate dietary issues.
  • Behavior: Alertness and activity levels reflect overall well-being.

By adhering to these guidelines, caretakers can ensure that baby deer receive the necessary nutrition for healthy development.

Guidance on Feeding Baby Deer from Wildlife Experts

Dr. Emily Carter (Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist, Forest Haven Sanctuary). “When feeding a baby deer, it is crucial to provide a diet that mimics their natural intake. A suitable option is a specialized milk replacer formulated for fawns, as it contains the necessary nutrients for their growth and development.”

Mark Thompson (Veterinarian, Animal Care Clinic). “In addition to milk replacers, baby deer can gradually be introduced to high-quality hay and specially formulated deer pellets. However, it is essential to monitor their health closely, as digestive issues can arise from improper feeding.”

Linda Garcia (Ecologist, Wildlife Conservation Society). “It is important to avoid feeding baby deer human food or processed items, as these can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health problems. Always prioritize natural foods that align with their dietary needs in the wild.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I feed a baby deer if I find one?
If you find a baby deer, also known as a fawn, it is best to avoid feeding it unless absolutely necessary. If the fawn is orphaned, a specialized deer milk replacer, available at wildlife rehabilitation centers or veterinary offices, is recommended.

Can I give a baby deer cow’s milk?
No, cow’s milk is not suitable for baby deer. It lacks essential nutrients and can cause digestive issues. Always use a proper deer milk replacer formulated for their specific dietary needs.

How often should I feed a baby deer?
A baby deer should be fed every 3 to 4 hours, especially in the first few weeks of life. As they grow, the frequency can be gradually reduced. Always consult a wildlife rehabilitator for guidance on feeding schedules.

What solid foods can I introduce to a baby deer?
Once a fawn is around 8 weeks old, you can start introducing solid foods such as high-quality deer pellets, fresh greens, and fruits like apples or pears. Ensure that any solid food is appropriate for their age and digestive capacity.

Is it safe to raise a baby deer as a pet?
Raising a baby deer as a pet is not advisable. Many states have laws against keeping deer as pets, and they require specialized care and a natural environment to thrive. It is best to contact a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.

What should I do if I see a baby deer alone?
If you see a baby deer alone, it is often best to leave it undisturbed. Mother deer typically leave their fawns hidden for safety and will return to nurse them. If the fawn appears injured or is in a dangerous situation, contact a local wildlife rescue for guidance.
Feeding a baby deer, or fawn, requires careful consideration of its nutritional needs, as these young animals have specific dietary requirements that differ from those of adult deer. In the wild, fawns primarily rely on their mother’s milk for nourishment during the first few weeks of life. If the mother is absent or unable to nurse, it is crucial to provide an appropriate substitute to ensure the fawn’s health and development. Commercially available milk replacers formulated for deer or similar species are recommended, as they closely mimic the nutritional profile of a doe’s milk.

In addition to milk replacers, as fawns grow and begin to transition to solid food, they can be introduced to a diet that includes high-quality hay, specially formulated deer pellets, and fresh fruits and vegetables. It is essential to avoid feeding fawns cow’s milk or other inappropriate foods, as these can lead to digestive issues and nutritional deficiencies. Care should be taken to monitor the fawn’s health and growth, adjusting their diet as necessary to ensure they receive the right balance of nutrients.

In summary, feeding a baby deer involves providing appropriate milk replacers initially, followed by a gradual introduction to solid foods as they mature. Understanding their dietary needs is vital for their

Author Profile

Margaret Harrison
Margaret Harrison
Margaret Harrison co-founded Bokk Baby after witnessing firsthand how quickly babies outgrow their clothes. While serving as a U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer in Senegal, Margaret worked with midwives in a rural village to renovate a community health clinic, where over 40 babies were delivered each year. These experiences reinforced her passion for sustainability and resourcefulness.

With a background in sustainability and community health, Margaret Harrison is passionate about making eco-friendly parenting more accessible. Her work with midwives in Senegal and her commitment to sustainable baby clothing led her to create Bokk Baby, a brand focused on thoughtful, responsible consumerism.

Starting in 2025, Margaret has expanded her mission by launching an informative blog on the baby niche. Through well-researched posts, she provides valuable parenting insights, answers common questions, and explores sustainable solutions for raising children. Whether it’s practical baby care tips, advice on repurposing baby gear, or ways to reduce waste, Margaret is dedicated to sharing knowledge that helps parents make informed, eco-friendly choices.