Maybe you’ve always wanted a small, bushy-tailed buddy that zips around your house, climbs anything, and keeps things lively. The idea sounds fun, but before you jump in, you should know that most “squirrel-like” pets have some pretty unique needs, not to mention legal hurdles and diets that aren’t anything like what you’d feed a dog or cat.
Some of these animals can be awesome companions, but only if you’re ready to handle their care, give them enough space, and actually follow your local laws.
This guide will walk you through which animals act like squirrels, what their daily care looks like, and how to be a responsible owner. If you’re curious about picking the right species, setting up a safe home, and what it really takes to keep these energetic creatures happy, you’re in the right place.
Understanding Squirrel Like Pets
If you want to keep squirrels, you’ll need enough space, a species that fits your lifestyle, and a steady routine. It’s important to find out which ones you’re allowed to have where you live, and what each type needs when it comes to handling, food, and their living space.
Best Pet Squirrel Species
Some squirrel species just do better with people than others. Tree squirrels, like the eastern gray, often bond to one person and are pretty common where they’re legal. Flying squirrels—southern flying squirrels, for example—sleep in nest boxes and usually do best in pairs.
They’re nocturnal, so they want a dim, quiet spot. Ground squirrels like Richardson’s or even prairie dogs are social and need burrow-like setups with space to dig.
Chipmunks are smaller but they’re escape artists, so you’ll need a super secure enclosure. Always check your local laws before picking a pet, and try to get captive-bred animals from good breeders so you don’t harm wild populations.
Key Traits of Squirrels as Pets
Squirrels love to climb, chew everything in sight, and need a pretty varied diet. Their claws and teeth are sharp, so you’ll have to give them sturdy branches, safe chew toys, and a cage with lots of vertical space.
Most squirrels want high perches and places to hide, so shelves and nest boxes help them feel safe. Their meals should include a mix of nuts, grains, fruits, veggies, and some kind of squirrel pellets or seeds. Skip the salty or processed snacks meant for humans.
Wild-caught squirrels might have parasites, so wear gloves and find a vet who sees exotic rodents. Some squirrels, like flyers, barely make a peep, but others—especially tree squirrels—can get pretty noisy during the day.
Can Squirrels Be Tamed?
You can tame a lot of squirrels with patience, but it really depends on the species and their age. If you feed them at the same spot and time every day, they’ll start to trust you.
Hand-feed little treats, like unsalted peanuts or apple bits, but don’t push for cuddles. Young squirrels usually come around faster, though you can still tame wild adults if you go slow and give them time.
Never grab or hold them too tightly—if you do, you’ll just scare them and probably get bitten. Usually, squirrels bond with one main person, and the rest of the family might stay strangers.
Stick to calm voices and gentle movements. If you’re thinking about taming a wild squirrel, double-check the laws and get a health check first.
Lifespan and Bonding
Squirrel lifespans really depend on the species. Flying squirrels, for example, often live 6–10 years if you feed them well and get them to the vet when needed.
Bigger tree squirrels can make it to 8–15 years, but only if you give them the right housing and care. Building trust takes months, not days, so don’t expect instant friendship.
Stick to a routine, offer safe climbing stuff, and spend time with them to build a bond. For ground squirrels, having a friend in the same enclosure can really help their mental health.
Keep an eye on their weight, how active they are, and their coat so you can catch problems early and keep your connection strong.
Responsible Ownership and Daily Care
Before you bring any squirrel-like pet home, make sure you’ve checked the legal stuff, figured out their food, and set up a space that keeps them happy. You’ll need permits in some places, a tall and secure cage, daily enrichment, and maybe even contact with a licensed rehabilitator.
Laws and Permits for Exotic Pets
Laws about keeping squirrels as pets change from state to state, and even city to city. Some places ban them entirely; others let you have one only with a special wildlife or rehab permit.
You’ll need to call your state’s wildlife agency or even local animal control to find out what permits you need, how much they cost, and what you have to do to get one.
If you find a hurt wild squirrel, most areas want you to hand it over to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator—not keep it yourself. Permits might ask for proof of secure housing, experience, or a promise to release the animal if it gets better.
If you keep a squirrel illegally, you could face fines or have the animal taken away. Local rules matter too—sometimes your city or county bans them even if your state says it’s fine.
Hang onto your permit paperwork, follow any reporting rules, and don’t forget to renew on time.
Feeding and Nutrition
Squirrels need a diet that’s as close to wild as you can manage. Offer safe nuts—think unsalted almonds or walnuts—and fresh fruits like apples or pears.
Toss in veggies, such as leafy greens or carrots. Skip chocolate, caffeine, onions, and anything sugary or processed. For baby squirrels, use a commercial formula or check with an exotic vet for a balanced plan.
If your vet recommends it, add calcium with a cuttlebone or powder. Always keep fresh water in a heavy bowl or a bottle.
Feed them twice a day and watch their weight. If you notice sudden changes, it’s time for a vet visit.
Mix up their foods to keep things interesting and help their teeth. Try puzzle feeders so they can forage like they would in the wild.
If you’re getting a squirrel from a breeder or rescue, ask for a feeding plan and vet history.
Housing and Enrichment Needs
Squirrels are super active climbers, so they need a tall, secure cage or even a whole room. Aim for at least six feet of vertical space, with strong wire mesh and plenty of branches for climbing.
Add nest boxes with safe bedding, like untreated wood shavings. Give them new things to do every day: branches, ropes, chew toys, and foraging puzzles.
Let them out for supervised playtime in a squirrel-proof room, or try harnessed outdoor time if you’re brave. Change up their toys each week so they don’t get bored.
Make sure the area is escape-proof and safe from predators. Watch out for toxic houseplants and tiny gaps they could squeeze through.
Clean food bowls every day, spot-clean the cage daily, and do a deep clean once a week to keep things fresh and parasite-free.
Adoption, Rescue, and Rehabilitators
Try to adopt from licensed wildlife rehabilitators or rescues when you can. These folks check out potential homes and place non-releasable squirrels with people who can care for them long-term.
Reach out to your state wildlife agency or a local rehab center to find out what’s legal in your area. They’ll know the ropes.
If you come across an injured or orphaned squirrel, get in touch with a licensed wildlife rehabilitator right away. Raising wild juveniles on your own—without the right permit or training—isn’t a good idea.
Rehabilitators can walk you through long-term care, permits, and local rules. They’re a great resource.
When you’re ready to adopt, ask for medical records, a care plan, and any permits you’ll need. A solid rehabilitator will stick to state rules and might want to do a home visit before handing over a squirrel.
