Feeding Baby Squirrels: Diet, Hydration & Portions Guide [Video]

Paul West/ Pet And Wildlife Care

Caring for a baby squirrel can be a daunting task, especially when you’re not sure what to feed these tiny creatures. It’s crucial to get their diet right to ensure they grow up healthy and strong. In this article, you’ll discover the ins and outs of a baby squirrel’s diet, from their favorite nibbles to the vital fluids they need.

What Do Baby Squirrels Eat?

Caring for a baby squirrel means understanding their dietary needs which differ significantly from adult squirrels. Baby squirrels thrive on a rich milk formula specially designed to mimic their mother’s milk. If you’ve found a baby squirrel, the first step is to keep them warm and hydrated before attempting to feed them.

In the wild, baby squirrels begin to eat solid foods around six weeks of age. Start incorporating puppy milk replacer or a homemade formula containing goat’s milk, plain yogurt, and egg yolk into their diet. As they grow, gradually introduce soft fruits and vegetables, making sure these are small enough to prevent choking.

Protein intake is crucial for development and raw nuts should be introduced slowly. Avoid salted or sugared nuts; natural and raw is the way to go. It’s important to be watchful of their reactions to new foods and consult a wildlife expert if you’re unsure.

• Puppy milk replacer
• Goat’s milk
• Plain yogurt
• Egg yolk
• Soft fruits and vegetables
• Raw nuts

When baby squirrels reach the age of 10 to 12 weeks, they can typically start eating the same foods their wild counterparts enjoy. This is the stage you’ll begin seeing them nibble on a variety of nuts, seeds, and plant materials. Calcium is vital for their bone development, so foods enriched with calcium or a small calcium supplement may be necessary.

Monitoring their diet is key. Keep track of their feeding schedule and ensure they’re getting enough to eat without overfeeding. You’ll know you’re on the right track when you observe consistent weight gain and development. Remember that each squirrel may have unique preferences and dietary responses, so be prepared to tailor their feeding plan accordingly.

Nurturing a Baby Squirrel’s Diet

When caring for baby squirrels, you’ll find that adequate nutrition is key to their survival and growth. As they progress from infancy to the juvenile stage, your approach to feeding will need to adjust accordingly.

In the early weeks, formula feeding is critical. A homemade formula made of goat’s milk, plain yogurt, and egg yolk provides the essential nutrients a baby squirrel requires. Feed them using a small syringe or pet nurser bottle to mimic natural feeding habits. Be patient as they learn to suckle efficiently, which is vital for their development.

As baby squirrels mature, you can introduce soft fruits and vegetables; these foods help them transition to a more varied diet. Start with small, manageable pieces to avoid choking hazards. Suitable options include:

• Mashed sweet potatoes
• Soft pear slices
• Steamed carrots

During this stage, it’s important to ensure your little charge is hydrating properly. Fresh water should be available at all times. Some baby squirrels might not instinctively know how to drink from a bowl, so you may need to teach them by gently dipping their mouths in the water.

When it’s time to incorporate more solid food, offer raw nuts in moderation. These are great for promoting dental health and will be a substantial part of their adult diet. Be aware of the size and hardness of the nuts to prevent any dental issues.

Monitor their reactions to new foods and adjust the diet if necessary. Keep an eye out for common dietary issues such as diarrhea or obesity, which can signify that the diet needs tweaking. Your vigilance will ensure they receive the appropriate amount of nutrients to support their ongoing growth and health.

Nibbles for Baby Squirrels

When you’re nurturing a baby squirrel, figuring out what they can eat as they develop is crucial. Baby squirrels thrive on a diet that gradually expands as they grow. Initially, a milk formula is essential, but by about 7 to 8 weeks, these little critters are ready to explore new tastes.

At this stage, it’s time to introduce them to soft solids. Start with small pieces of fruits such as apple, banana, or grapes. Note that grapes should be de-seeded to avoid any choking hazards. Soft vegetables like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, or zucchini are also great options. Always cut the fruits and veggies into manageable sizes to make it easy for baby squirrels to handle and eat.

Feeding should be done with care, offering small quantities to avoid overwhelming them. If you’re unsure about portion sizes, it’s safe to start with thumb-sized amounts. This cautious approach allows you to gauge their appetite and digestion. As for nuts, which are a staple in a squirrel’s diet, introduce them raw and unsalted. Almonds and pecans are ideal due to their nutrient content, aiding in muscular and skeletal development. However, ensure the nuts are shelled and possibly halved for younger squirrels.

Your baby squirrel needs hydration just like any other growing animal. They should always have access to fresh water in a shallow dish. This prevents dehydration, especially important during warmer months or if they’re particularly active after feedings.

Remember to watch how the baby squirrel reacts to different foods. Some might become favorites, while others are left untouched. Observe them for any signs of digestive issues or allergies. It’s vital to react promptly if something in their diet isn’t agreeing with them.

Providing a variety of foods not only keeps their diet interesting but also ensures they’re receiving a range of nutrients. It’s the balanced approach needed for healthy growth during these formative weeks. If you’re searching for guidance on quantities or dietary specifics, many wildlife rehabilitators offer feeding charts and videos. These resources can be a valuable tool in raising a well-nourished baby squirrel.

Essential Fluids for Baby Squirrels

Proper hydration is as crucial for baby squirrels as it is for humans, especially in their formative weeks. In the wild, infants get the majority of their hydration from their mother’s milk, but when caring for a baby squirrel, you’re responsible for meeting this need. Puppy milk replacer is often recommended, closely mimicking the rich composition of squirrel milk. For hand-feeding, a syringe without a needle is your best tool, providing control and minimizing the risk of aspiration.

In between feedings, young squirrels benefit from small amounts of pedialyte or a similar hydration solution. This not only helps maintain fluid levels but also ensures a balance of electrolytes. When you’re selecting products, look for those that are unsweetened and unflavored to prevent any potential digestive issues.

As squirrels begin to wean, transitioning to solid foods, their hydration needs evolve. You’ll start noticing a decreased dependency on milk formulas and a growing interest in water. Introduce a shallow dish of water, shallow enough to prevent drowning, and observe as they learn to drink independently. Monitor their urine for a healthy, clear-to-light-yellow appearance as a sign of good hydration.

Remember, keeping the diet natural is key. A rule of thumb is if you wouldn’t find it in a squirrel’s natural habitat, it’s best to skip it. Stick to quality, species-specific products and clean, fresh water to support their growth. And as always, be attentive to each squirrel’s unique cues, adjusting as needed for their individual health and well-being.

Feeding Baby Squirrels: Dos and Don’ts

When you’re caring for baby squirrels, you’ll want to get their diet just right to ensure they grow up healthy and strong. Here’s a rundown of what to do and what to avoid.

Dos:

• Start with the right formula: Your first step is to choose a high-quality puppy milk replacer. Look for one that’s easily digestible and packed with essential nutrients.
• Gradually introduce solids: Once the squirrel is ready, begin offering soft fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Try banana slices, sweet potato, or apple chunks.
• Hydrate responsibly: Ensure baby squirrels are adequately hydrated by providing a shallow water dish as they start weaning off milk.
• Observe their behavior: Watch for physical cues and adjust their diet accordingly. If they’re enthusiastically nibbling on solids, it’s probably time to offer more.

Don’ts:

• Never give cow’s milk: It could cause digestive issues, as baby squirrels can’t process lactose well.
• Avoid processed foods: Human snacks and processed foods are a no-go. They don’t meet the squirrel’s nutritional requirements and can be harmful.
• Skip sugary or salty treats: These can lead to health problems and are not part of a squirrel’s natural diet.
• Don’t overfeed: Overfeeding can cause obesity and other health issues. Stick to recommended portions and feeding frequencies.

When it comes to how much baby squirrels should eat, it depends on their age and size. Younger squirrels will need more frequent feedings with smaller amounts. As they grow, the frequency will decrease, but the portion sizes will increase. Consistently monitor their growth and appetite to tailor their diet specifically to their needs.

For a visual guide on feeding practices, searching for instructional videos could be quite helpful. Look for reputable wildlife rehabilitators who may have uploaded educational content to ensure you’re getting accurate and safe advice.

Conclusion

Caring for baby squirrels is a delicate task that requires attention and knowledge. You’ve learned the essentials of feeding these tiny creatures to promote their well-being. Remember, the right start with a puppy milk replacer and the gradual introduction of appropriate solid foods will set them on the path to healthy adulthood. Stay vigilant about hydration, avoid harmful foods, and adjust portions as they grow. Don’t hesitate to seek out visual tutorials from experts to refine your feeding technique. With these tips in hand, you’re equipped to nurture your furry charges responsibly.