If you’ve found a baby squirrel and are wondering whether to keep it as a pet, you’re not alone. Many people are drawn to these cute creatures. However, keeping a baby squirrel is not as simple as it may seem and often requires the help of a wildlife rehabilitator. These animals have specific needs that you might not be able to meet.
Before deciding to adopt a baby squirrel, it’s important to learn some baby squirrel facts. Squirrels are wild animals and can become stressed in a home environment. They also need special care and diet that is different from domestic pets. Understanding these needs can help you assess if you’re ready for such a responsibility.
If you decide to bring a baby squirrel into your home, be sure to research how to properly care for it. You might also consider contacting a wildlife rehabilitator for guidance. They can provide you with valuable information and support to ensure the baby squirrel has the best chance of survival, whether in your care or back in the wild.
Understanding Baby Squirrel Needs
Caring for a baby squirrel requires attention to its specific needs. To help you provide the best care, it’s important to focus on their nutrition and diet, habitat, and health through various growth stages.
Nutrition and Diet
Baby squirrels, especially infants, need a proper diet to thrive. They cannot eat solid food until they are about 6 weeks old. Until then, they depend on milk replacers like puppy milk or specialized formulas.
Make sure to avoid cow’s milk, as it can upset their stomach. As they grow into juvenile squirrels, you can gradually introduce high-quality rodent blocks. These blocks provide essential nutrients.
Hydration is also crucial. If a baby squirrel appears dehydrated, give it an electrolyte solution like Pedialyte. This can help them recover and stay healthy.
Habitat and Living Conditions
Creating a safe and comfortable habitat is vital for your baby squirrel. Keep it warm and cozy, especially if it’s younger than five weeks. A cardboard box lined with soft materials works well for infants.
Ensure the temperature is right. Use rice bags or heating pads to maintain warmth but avoid overheating. As your squirrel matures, it will need more space to explore and play.
It’s important to keep their living area clean. Baby squirrels can attract pests like fly eggs. Regular cleaning will help keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
Health and Growth Stages
Understanding the health needs of baby squirrels is crucial. During the infant stage, watch for signs of dehydration and ensure they are gaining weight regularly. A dehydrated baby squirrel may need immediate care.
As they transition to juveniles, watch for growth milestones. Proper nutrition can prevent issues such as metabolic bone disease. This disease occurs when they don’t get enough calcium.
Regular check-ups with a vet familiar with wildlife can help monitor their health. Early detection of health issues will ensure your baby squirrel thrives as it grows.
Rehabilitation and Release
Taking care of an orphaned baby squirrel is a big responsibility. Rehabilitation and release are essential steps to ensure the squirrel has a chance to thrive in the wild. Here’s how to navigate this important process.
Working with a Wildlife Rehabilitator
If you find an orphaned baby squirrel, it’s best to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. These professionals are trained to care for wild animals and can provide the support you need.
They will know how to properly feed your baby squirrel, often using syringes for precise feeding. Make sure to ask about the right diet and any specific needs. It may be necessary to provide a saline solution if your squirrel is dehydrated.
A wildlife rehabilitator can also help assess the health of your squirrel and provide necessary medical care. This support is crucial, especially for species like the eastern gray squirrel or the American red squirrel.
Preparing Squirrels for the Wild
To prepare your squirrel for release, early socialization is key. Keeping your squirrel around other squirrels is important for learning social skills. This will help them when they encounter other squirrels in the wild.
When the squirrel is around four months old, it can be moved to an outdoor release cage for acclimation. This controlled environment allows them to become familiar with their future home.
Make sure the release area has plenty of natural food sources. This prepares your squirrel to find food on its own. After a few days, you can fully release your squirrel into a safe area where they can thrive.
