Maybe the idea of a bushy-tailed friend sounds perfect, but let’s be honest—laws and care needs matter more than their cuteness. Whether you can keep a squirrel as a pet really depends on where you live, and you’ll probably need permits or have to follow special rules.
Some states allow pet squirrels, but others don’t. You might need a permit, or maybe your city has extra rules even if the state says yes.
We’ll also get into the basics of housing and care, because keeping a squirrel isn’t a casual thing.
If you’re wondering whether you can legally bring a squirrel into your home—or what that even looks like—stick around for the practical info you’ll need.
Legal Status of Keeping Squirrels as Pets
Laws about owning a squirrel change depending on where you live, what species you want, and whether the squirrel came from the wild or a breeder.
In many places, you’ll need a permit, have to buy from licensed breeders, or just can’t keep squirrels at all.
U.S. State Laws and Regional Variations
State wildlife departments set the basic ground rules. Some states let you keep squirrels as pets without paperwork.
Others ban private ownership, or maybe just allow certain species like flying squirrels. A few states only allow pet squirrels from licensed breeders—not wild ones.
For example, states like Arkansas, Idaho, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming allow pet squirrels without permits. Others restrict ownership or require permits.
Check your own state’s laws for details on which species are okay and if you need a breeder or dealer license before you buy or adopt.
Local Wildlife Regulations and Permit Requirements
Cities and counties can pile on their own rules. You might need a captive wildlife permit, an exotic animal license, or even written approval from your landlord to keep a squirrel.
Some towns ban squirrels completely, even if the state says it’s fine. If you rescue or rehabilitate animals, you’ll need a wildlife rehabilitator permit to keep native squirrels, even short-term.
Call your local animal control or fish and wildlife office to ask about permit fees, inspections, and cage standards. It’s not always obvious, so better to check.
Federally Protected Species and Regulations
Federal laws can make squirrel ownership impossible if the species is protected. You can’t take migratory or endangered species from the wild or keep them without special federal permits.
The Lacey Act and other federal rules also block moving wildlife across state lines without paperwork. If you plan to move or import a squirrel, double-check federal and state rules first.
Flying squirrels and other protected species usually have so many overlapping rules that private ownership gets pretty much impossible.
Requirements and Care for Pet Squirrels
You’ll need to meet strict housing, diet, and legal requirements to keep a squirrel healthy. They’re super active, need daily enrichment, and you’ll probably end up calling a vet or rehabilitator more than you expect.
Types of Squirrels Typically Kept as Pets
Most folks keep tree squirrels—eastern gray, fox, or red squirrels. Some states allow ground or non-native species, but you’ll have to check your local laws.
Wild-caught squirrels usually need permits, or it’s just illegal. Most rescues only place non-releasable squirrels with people.
Hand-raised young squirrels adjust better to people, but they still act wild sometimes. Males might roam more if they get outside, but both sexes are pretty similar.
Flying squirrels need different care and often count as exotic pets, which comes with extra rules.
Before you get one, make sure you know your state’s species-specific laws and whether any local vets will treat that type of squirrel. If you can’t get the right permits or find a vet, it’s not a good idea to keep one.
Squirrel Housing and Environmental Needs
Set up a tall, secure enclosure with branches, platforms, and hiding spots. For a single tree squirrel, aim for at least a 4 ft wide × 4 ft deep × 6 ft tall cage—bigger is always better.
Use wire spacing under 1 inch to keep them from squeezing out, and put in solid boxes for sleeping.
Keep the temperature steady, somewhere between 60–75°F, and avoid drafts or loud noises. Let them out in a squirrel-proofed room for supervised play every day.
Add natural branches, ropes, and sturdy perches so they can climb and chew. Clean up droppings and old food daily, and do a full cage clean once a week.
Lock all the doors and check for chewing damage regularly. If you need a permit, you’ll probably have to document your enclosure’s size, the materials you used, and how you’ll keep the squirrel from escaping.
Diet, Enrichment, and Health Considerations
Give your squirrel a varied diet. Use high-quality commercial squirrel pellets, unsalted mixed nuts, fresh fruits, vegetables, and just a little bit of seeds. Skip the sugary or fatty human snacks—those really don’t do them any favors.
Add calcium sources like cuttlebone or safe leafy greens. That’ll help keep their bones strong and prevent deficiency.
Set up daily enrichment activities. Try puzzle feeders, foraging hides, hanging toys, or even timed food-release gadgets. I like to switch out their toys every week; it keeps things fresh and helps fight off boredom.
Squirrels crave both mental and physical challenges. Plan a few short play sessions every day instead of just one long one.
Find a vet who knows wildlife or exotic mammals for regular checkups. If possible, get any necessary vaccinations.
Keep an eye out for warning signs like low energy, not eating, weird droppings, or any discharge. These could mean something’s wrong.
Never release a captive-bred squirrel on your own. Always talk to a licensed rehabilitator if you’re facing medical or behavioral issues.
