What-toFeed.com

what to feed my pet flying squirrel

by Mrs. Alana Maggio MD Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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You can also consider feeding them the following treats:

  • Pecans
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Bird seed blends
  • Mealworms
  • Fresh vegetables
  • Fresh fruit
  • Butternut squash
  • Pine nuts

You can feed flying squirrel pets the same things that wild flying squirrels eat.
...
You can also consider feeding them the following treats:
  1. Pecans.
  2. Sunflower seeds.
  3. Bird seed blends.
  4. Mealworms.
  5. Fresh vegetables.
  6. Fresh fruit.
  7. Butternut squash.
  8. Pine nuts.
Dec 26, 2021

Full Answer

What should I Feed my pet squirrels?

The best strategy for feeding your pet squirrel is to match what they would eat in the wild. This includes: Squirrels are opportunistic eaters. They’ll eat whatever is available to them. It is up to you to ensure they have a healthy diet.

What do flying squirrels like to eat?

Many Northern and Southern flying squirrel owners prefer to feed these pellets with some added nuts, seeds, and other foods to ensure they are providing a well-balanced diet. Parrot biscuits and monkey biscuits can also be fed as additional food, but are not formulated to be the primary diet for pet squirrels.

Do flying squirrels need a pet block?

We highly recommend specialty block like Henry’s Healthy Pet Block for Flying Squirrels, but remember, even this should be regularly supplemented with a healthy mix of fruits & veggies. Trees provide an important source of nutrients and chewing on their branches helps flyers maintain healthy teeth.

Can squirrels eat legumes?

Squirrels are quick critters who need to eat throughout the day to maintain their energy levels and body weight. A varied diet is crucial in keeping them healthy but you also need to make sure you feed your pet the appropriate foods, not just any variety of foods. Squirrels can eat a variety of plants, including legumes.

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What fruit do flying squirrels eat?

Fruits. In the wild, flying squirrels are opportunistic foragers, and will eat fruit growing in their environment. For southern flying squirrels, this may include berries, pears, apples or plums.

What do flying squirrels drink?

Water can be placed in a water bottle or a small dish, and either needs to be washed each time water is refilled. Offer commercial squirrel or hamster food daily, as well as fresh fruits, nuts and seed. Hard nuts such as pecans and walnuts will help keep his teeth from getting too long.

Do flying squirrels eat carrots?

At least 40% of their diet should be fresh fruit to keep their digestive system working smoothly. Fresh fruits may include apples, grapes, oranges, peaches, pears or plums. Other foods that may be included in their diet are carrots, mealworms and sunflower seeds.

How do you make flying squirrels happy?

Provide your squirrel with branches in their cage for climbing and chewing. Cotton ropes hung in the cage can also provide an opportunity for climbing and play. A running wheel is good to provide for exercise. A solid-surface wheel is the safest choice for flying squirrels because of its long tails.

Can flying squirrels eat bananas?

Pine nuts, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed, pecans, walnuts, acorns, berries, broccoli, white clover flowers, corn, sweet potatoes, portabello mushrooms, etc are some of the favorite food items of a flying squirrel. They also love fresh fruits including bananas.

What food is poisonous to squirrels?

Toxic foods are poisonous to squirrels and should be completely avoided....UNHEALTHY FOODSHigh-sugar foods (candy, cookies, granola, sweetened breakfast cereals)High-starch foods (pasta, bread, rice, potatoes)Salty foods.Human junk food.Cashews.Sunflower seeds.Dried corn.Pine nuts.

Can flying squirrels eat celery?

Squirrels will also eat other delicious veggies such as tomatoes, radishes, corn, squash, beans, corn, peas, root vegetables, greens (such as beet greens and the greens of any root vegetables), okra, eggplant, brusssell sprouts, carrots, broccoli, cabbage, asparagus, celery, cauliflower, cabbage, leeks–basically ...

Do flying squirrels eat nuts?

Flying squirrels are omnivores. They eat a variety of foods, including seeds, nuts, fungi, fruit, and insects. Southern flying squirrels are considered one of the most carnivorous squirrels because they supplement their diet with eggs, birds, and carrion.

What do squirrels like to drink?

As it turns out, squirrels actually drink a lot of water, and they need even more water during warm weather, lactation and pregnancy. It's crucial that they have a clean source of water, and if they cannot get this from their natural environment, then there is nothing wrong with helping them out.

What does a flying squirrel eat?

Food. Flying squirrels eat a variety of fruits and nuts, insects, small birds, and meat scraps. Flying squirrels are frequent visitors at bird feeders, and some people have lights at the feeders so they can watch the flying squirrel's antics at night.

Can squirrels drink juice?

Can Squirrels Drink Orange Juice? No, absolutely not. If you have a fountain and feeder for your squirrels, make sure they have access to fresh cold water daily. They do not need anything but water to stay properly hydrated.

What do squirrels eat and drink?

Squirrels are omnivores, which means they like to eat plants and meat. Squirrels mainly eat fungi, seeds, nuts and fruits, but they will also munch on eggs, small insects, caterpillars, small animals and even young snakes.

What to feed squirrels?

Many Northern and Southern flying squirrel owners prefer to feed these pellets with some added nuts, seeds, and other foods to ensure they are providing a well-balanced diet. Parrot biscuits and monkey biscuits can also be fed as additional food but are not formulated to be the primary diet for pet squirrels.

What are some good foods for squirrels?

Nuts are a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and even fiber for a pet squirrel. Provide a few nuts a day as treats to your pet squirrel.

What do squirrels eat?

Squirrels can eat a variety of plants, including legumes. Peanuts are probably the most popular and widely loved legume, but they aren't the only ones you should be feeding your pet. Peas, lentils, and beans are all excellent sources of plant protein. You should aim to provide a few legumes in a squirrel's daily diet.

What animals does Adrienne Kruzer work with?

Adrienne Kruzer, BS, RVT, LVT, has worked with a variety of animals for over 15 years, including birds of prey, reptiles, and small mammals. Squirrels are quick critters who need to eat throughout the day to maintain their energy levels and body weight.

Do squirrels need calcium?

Many squirrels, especially flying squirrels, will need a calcium and vitamin D3 supplement if they don't get enough from the food they eat. In order to make sure your squirrel is getting enough calcium and vitamin D, you can dust fruits and vegetables with calcium powder made for reptiles a few times a week.

Do squirrels eat mealworms?

While you may not like the idea of your little squirrel munching on a crunchy mealworm, your little rodent friend sure might! Squirrels will often enjoy the occasional mealworm or super worm, or may even jump at the chance to chase a cricket.

What are some wild foods that squirrels eat?

Wild Foods—Unlimited while in season. Magnolia cones, pine cones, pine branches and bark, branch tips of nontoxic trees, roses from your garden, wild rose hips, purslane, plaintain, lambs quarters, and dandelion greens can be gathered fresh daily. Look to see what the wild squirrels are eating in your area.

What do squirrels need?

Your squirrel needs a balanced diet containing protein, fat, and vitamins and minerals, including lots of calcium. Feed a variety of foods from each category in the amounts indicated. Note: Amounts are for a 450-gram (1 pound) squirrel, and should be adjusted as necessary depending on your squirrel’s weight.

How to keep squirrels healthy?

1 hour per day in an outdoor cage or screened porch during the warm months provides Vit D and will help keep your squirrel healthy. An open window screened with aluminum screening or hardware cloth is another option.

Is there a vegetarian formula for squirrels?

Vegetarian formulas contain no preservatives, phytoestrogens, or nitrosamines. The 2014 is a low-fat, low-protein formula suitable for older squirrels. The 2018 is for growing squirrels ( under 18 months old). Store in the refrigerator. $5.00 for 5 lbs at the Crafty Rat:

Is a squirrel overweight?

Being overweight causes all kinds of health problems and is a major factor in diabetes in older animals. “Healthy weights” may vary: northern squirrels tend to be heavier than southern squirrels, and foxers are heavier than greys. In general, your pet should look like the healthy wild squirrels in your area.

What do squirrels eat?

In the wild, southern flying squirrels eat a variety of nuts, seeds, fruits, and insects. In captivity, they do well with a varied diet that can include : A variety of fresh veggies (corn, sweet potatoes, and portabello mushrooms are popular) and fruit (oranges provide calcium)

What is the smallest squirrel?

Southern flying squirrels are the smallest of the tree squirrels. Their northern cousins, a larger species, are also kept as pets. Southern flying squirrels are primarily nocturnal with large, round eyes that help them see at night.

How tall should a squirrel cage be?

The floor space of two feet by two feet is adequate. The minimum height should be 3 feet tall, but 5 or 6 feet tall is better.

What do hamsters eat?

Hamster pellets. A variety of fresh veggies (corn, sweet potatoes, and portabello mushrooms are popular) and fruit (oranges provide calcium) Mealworms and waxworms. In captivity, feed the equivalent of about 1 tablespoon of food in the morning and at night.

Do Southern Flying Squirrels like their owners?

Like sugar gliders, southern flying squirrels form an intense bond with their owners if acquired at a young age from a breeder. They are usually quite happy to spend time climbing and playing on their owner (as though the human is a tree).

Can you take a squirrel in from the wild?

If these squirrels are local in your area, do not attempt to take one in from the wild. In most cases, it is also illegal to do so.

Do squirrels live in trees?

They live in trees and glide from tree to tree, using a flap of furry skin between their legs like a parachute. Southern flying squirrels will spend time with you if there's a pouch or pocket available. If hand-raised, they can form a deep attachment with you.

How to get a flying squirrel to eat?

When they’re ready for a big cage, give them a water bottle, food, branches to climb on, and a nest box high in the cage. Give them toys and make sure their bedding is clean and dry. Feeding. Flying squirrels will eat formula as a baby.

What do squirrels eat?

They can also eat apple and orange slides and flying squirrel seeds. They are prone to calcium deficiency and will need a supplement. Include fruits and vegetables in their squirrel feed as they get older. Exercise. They are active creatures and nocturnal, so they will be running or playing while you’re asleep.

Why are flying squirrels illegal?

Due to flying squirrels’ exotic status, they are illegal to own in 10 states. This is because flying squirrels are being trapped in their native habitat and trafficked to different countries. Even though they’ve been banned in certain states, they are still getting smuggled in. If you want a flying squirrel, you should research legal ...

What are the two types of flying squirrels?

Two types of flying squirrels are native to North America. They are the northern and southern flying squirrel. The southern flying squirrel is the smallest with gray hair and a white belly. The northern flying squirrel has gray-brown hair and a gray belly. If cared for properly, flying squirrels can be affectionate pets.

Do flying squirrels need owners?

Flying squirrels need owners who will feed them, carry them around, and be with them constantly. You’ll need to be ready to build your life around your new pet. Flying squirrels bond strongly, and it's not good for them to be ignored or rehomed. Flying squirrels are illegally trafficked.

Can squirrels be pets?

Flying squirrels can be good pets, but they can also be challenging animals to live with. If you want one, look into ethical rehabilitation sites where you can rescue them. Make sure you have plenty of time for them and are willing to create a strong bond. Pagination.

Is it illegal to have a flying squirrel?

Flying squirrels are wild animals that are also occasionally kept as pets. They’re considered exotic animals and it may be illegal to have one on your state so make sure you check if they’re legal where you live before getting one. Flying squirrels have small pink noses, large eyes, and long, furry tails making them extremely cute.

How to keep squirrels safe from predators?

Squirrel accommodations. You can create a cage that is kept inside or outside as long as your squirrel is safe from predators.

How to keep squirrels from climbing?

Put away any small objects that your squirrel can knock over and break while climbing. Cover small holes and put away appliances your squirrel can climb in to hide. Secure chemicals and other dangerous substances, including processed snacks your squirrel may get into.

How to get squirrels out of your house?

Preparing your home for squirrels. Squirrels love to climb, play, and hide. Since they are wild animals, you may consider letting your squirrel in and out of your house. You’ll need to ensure your house and backyard are safe for your new pet, which means you should: Put away any small objects that your squirrel can knock over ...

How to train a squirrel to use the litter box?

Encourage your squirrel to use the litter box by placing their feces there, so they smell it and associate the box with using the bathroom. General training for your squirrel. While squirrels are difficult to train, you can build habits over time by encouraging certain behavior.

How to adopt a squirrel?

First, have your squirrel checked out by a veterinarian. If you decide to adopt a squirrel, it is a lifetime commitment. Once squirrels are domesticated, they lose their natural instincts to survive in the wild. Preparing your home for squirrels. Squirrels love to climb, play, and hide.

How big should a squirrel cage be?

The cage should be a minimum of two feet across on all sides to be big enough for your squirrel to move around and taller than it is deep. Feeding your squirrel. The best strategy for feeding your pet squirrel is to match what they would eat in the wild. This includes: Pinecones. Seeds. Mushrooms. Flowers and buds.

Why won't my squirrels understand being punished?

Your squirrel won’t understand being punished when they are “bad” because many of their less desirable behaviors are natural instincts. Instead, remove objects that you want them to leave alone, or move them to another room or area with fewer distractions. Pagination. 1.

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Legumes

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Squirrels can eat a variety of plants, including legumes. Peanuts are probably the most popular and widely loved legume, but they aren't the only ones you should be feeding your pet. Peas, lentils, and beans are all excellent sources of plant protein. You should aim to provide a few legumes in a squirrel's daily diet.
See more on thesprucepets.com

Nuts

  • Everybody knows squirrels like nuts. Walnuts, acorns, almonds, and other nuts are all loved by squirrels. They love to hold them in their tiny paws as they eat. Nuts are a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and even fiber for a pet squirrel. Provide a few nuts a day as treats to your pet squirrel.
See more on thesprucepets.com

Seeds

  • Seeds should be the bulk of your squirrel's daily diet. Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and other large seeds that are found in most parrot or squirrel mixes should be available to your pet squirrel. These will provide the bulk of their calories and nutritional content but should not be the only food you offer. Squirrels who live solely on seeds will lack calcium in their diet an…
See more on thesprucepets.com

Vegetables

  • After seeds, vegetables are the most important partof your squirrel's daily diet. Sweet potatoes and corn are popular choices and also very nutritious for your little pet. They provide key vitamins and minerals that seeds, nuts, and other foods don't offer your squirrel. A nice chunk of a vegetable will also give your squirrel a natural water source and add some variety to the diet.
See more on thesprucepets.com

Fruits

  • Handheld pieces of berries, melons, apples, and other fruits can be offered sparingly. Too much fruit will cause diarrhea. A little bit every day will give your pet a small number of natural sugars and carbohydrates that they need to balance out their diet.
See more on thesprucepets.com

Insects

  • While you may not like the idea of your little squirrel munching on a crunchy mealworm, your little rodent friend sure might! Squirrels will often enjoy the occasional mealworm or super worm, or may even jump at the chance to chase a cricket. Insects can be another way to add vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin D to your squirrel's diet. Moths are another option if your squir…
See more on thesprucepets.com

Formulated Pellets

  • Some companies make squirrel pellets that are formulated to be balanced nutritionally for squirrels. Many Northern and Southern flying squirrel owners prefer to feed these pellets with some added nuts, seeds, and other foods to ensure they are providing a well-balanced diet. Parrot biscuitsand monkey biscuits can also be fed as additional food but are not formulated to be the …
See more on thesprucepets.com

Supplements

  • Many squirrels, especially flying squirrels, will need a calcium and vitamin D3 supplement if they don't get enough from the food they eat. In order to make sure your squirrel is getting enough calcium and vitamin D, you can dust fruits and vegetables with calcium powder made for reptilesa few times a week. Pet squirrels will eat a variety of things but that doesn't mean you should let i…
See more on thesprucepets.com

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