Teat Selection: Teats should resemble mother’s in shape and length for mouth comfort, fit and correct tooth eruption. Marsupial teats get longer as the joey grows, so progression to longer teats is important.

Hole Size: There is no hole in the teats, so the carer can make a hole to suit the age of the animal. Pierce the tip of the teat with a hot needle to make a hole about 1mm in diameter, or for large animals, cut a hole with scissors. If the hole is too small, excessive sucking will quickly weaken the tip and the end will blow out. If the hole is too large, excessive milk flow may increase the risk of the joey aspirating milk into the lungs. The hole should be large enough for milk to drip out slowly, when the bottle is inverted.

Feeding Technique: Small animals can be fed using a syringe with a teat pulled over the end to give greater control of milk flow with the plunger. Guidance should be obtained from experienced carers on correct feeding technique for different animals.

Storage: Latex is a natural product and degrades with use. Deterioration can be slowed by storing teats in an opaque, airtight container. Teats should be washed in warm soapy water immediately after use, dried and stored as above. Some carers sterilise by boiling or using infant sterilising solutions.