What Do I Feed My Pet Squirrel?
Hey there, fellow squirrel fans! Ever caught yourself wondering, What do I feed my pet squirrel? Well, you’re in for a treat! I’ve been head over heels for these adorable furballs for years, and I’m thrilled to share what I’ve learned about keeping their tummies happy.
Now, you might think it’s as simple as tossing them a few nuts, but there’s so much more to it! Feeding our bushy-tailed buddies is like being a tiny rodent chef – you’ve got to balance proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals just right.
Let me tell you, if there’s one thing I’ve discovered, it’s that calcium is the real star of the show in a squirrel’s diet. It’s their dietary superhero, keeping those bones strong for all their acrobatic stunts!
I remember when I first started learning about squirrel nutrition – my mind was blown by how complex it can be. But don’t worry, I’m here to break it all down for you in bite-sized pieces.
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Let’s break down the squirrel menu, shall we?
- Rodent Blocks: These are the foundation of a good squirrel diet. Aim for 2-4 small blocks per day. They’re packed with essential nutrients and help keep those adorable teeth in check.
- Veggie Bonanza: Squirrels love their greens! Offer 5-7 thumb-sized pieces of high-calcium veggies daily. Some favorites include kale, collard greens, and broccoli. For variety, add 2-3 pieces of other healthy veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Protein Power: Our little friends need their protein too! Try offering live mealworms, crickets, or even a tiny bit of hard-boiled egg. It’s like a squirrel’s version of a protein shake!
- Fruit Fiesta: A couple of slices of fruit per day will make your squirrel’s eyes light up. Apples, berries, and melon are all great choices. Just remember to remove any seeds or pits – they can be toxic!
- Nutty Treats: Offer two nuts per day, preferably in their shells. It’s like a little puzzle for your squirrel to solve! Acorns and almonds are top-notch choices.
What Do I Feed My Pet Squirrel Quick Reference Table
| Food Type | Daily Portion |
|---|---|
| Rodent Blocks | 2-4 small blocks |
| High-Calcium Veggies | 5-7 thumb-sized pieces |
| Other Veggies | 2-3 pieces |
| Animal Protein | 2 insects or 1 tsp egg/cheese |
| Fruit | 2 slices |
| Nuts/Seeds | 2 (in shell) |
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Remember, these portions are for an average adult squirrel. If your little buddy is on the chunky side or getting up there in years, you might want to cut back on the sugary or fatty foods.
I’ve found that providing a variety of foods keeps my squirrel friend happy and healthy. It’s like creating a squirrel buffet!
Water is crucial too. Make sure your squirrel always has access to fresh, clean water. I like to change mine twice a day for my non-release squirrel buddy – it’s amazing how much these little guys can drink!
Now, let’s talk about what to avoid. As much as we might want to spoil our furry friends, some human foods are a big no-no. Stay away from junk food, artificial sweeteners, and anything too salty or sugary. Trust me, your squirrel’s tummy will thank you!
One thing I’ve learned is that squirrels love to forage. Why not make mealtime fun? Try scattering their food around their living space. It’s like a treasure hunt for them!
Lastly, don’t forget about supplements. A cuttlebone or mineral block can be a great addition to their diet. It’s like a squirrel multivitamin!
Feeding your non-releasable pet squirrel is more than just nutrition – it’s a way to bond with your little buddy. So have fun with it, get creative, and watch your squirrel thrive!
Looking for more information on foods to feed a baby squirrel. Check out our baby squirrel feeding guide.
Really loving the insights on squirrel nutrition here, Merideth Sweeney! It’s fascinating to learn how vital calcium is for them. I guess it’s like how we need our vitamins to stay agile. Gotta make sure any furry friends visiting my backyard are getting a well-rounded diet!
hey, so i was wondering about the protein part. How do you make sure they’re getting enough but not too much? And what’s the best source? My backyard squirrels are pretty picky eaters lol.
interesting point on squirrel diets but where’s the science to back up these claims? specifically about calcium and protein ratios. got any sources or studies, Meredith?
I saw a similar discussion in a wildlife nutrition journal, actually. Squirrels do require a balanced diet and calcium is key for preventing metabolic issues. Can’t recall the source but it’s out there!
Thanks Jenn, I’ll look into it. Always good to check the facts.
So true about the calcium. I’ve been rehabilitating squirrels for years and it’s heartbreaking to see one with metabolic bone disease. Sunflower seeds are a big no-no as a main food because they’re high in fat but low in calcium. Always go for a balanced mix!
never thought about how much work goes into feeding squirrels right. this article makes me appreciate the little dudes even more. keep up the great work, Merideth – sharing this with my friends who love these critters as much as I do!