The Surprising Secrets of What to Feed an Infant Squirrel

Infant squirrels can be found in backyards, parks, and even urban settings. Often orphaned or abandoned, these small mammals require special care to thrive. Understanding what to feed an infant squirrel is crucial for anyone involved in wildlife rescue or rehabilitation. This feeding guide will provide you with essential tips and insights into the nutritional needs of baby squirrels and how to care for them effectively.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Needs of Infant Squirrels

Before diving into specific feeding guidelines, it’s important to know the basic needs of an infant squirrel. These small mammals are particularly vulnerable in their early stages of life and require a balanced diet to ensure proper growth and health.

Age Matters: The age of the squirrel will dictate its dietary needs. Newborns (0-6 weeks) will rely heavily on milk, while those older than six weeks can start introducing solid foods.
Species Variations: Different species of squirrels may have slightly different dietary requirements. Eastern gray squirrels, for example, may have different needs than fox squirrels.
Hydration is Key: Always ensure that your infant squirrel has access to fresh, clean water. Hydration is essential for their health.

Step-by-Step Feeding Guide for Infant Squirrels

Feeding an infant squirrel requires careful attention to detail. Here’s a comprehensive feeding guide to help you through the process:

1. Gather Supplies

Before you start feeding, gather the necessary supplies:

Feeding Syringe or Bottle: Use a small syringe or a specially designed bottle for small mammals.
Kitten Milk Replacement: A high-quality milk replacement formula, such as Esbilac, is ideal for infant squirrels. Avoid cow’s milk, as it can cause digestive issues.
Warmth Source: Squirrels need to be kept warm, so a heating pad or warm water bottle wrapped in a towel can help.

2. Prepare the Formula

Mix the kitten milk replacement according to the instructions on the package. Ensure the formula is at body temperature (around 100°F or 37°C) before feeding.

3. Feeding Technique

Hold the infant squirrel gently but securely. Use the syringe or bottle to offer the formula:

Place the nipple of the bottle or syringe just in the squirrel’s mouth.
Allow the squirrel to suckle at its own pace; don’t force it.
Feed small amounts (about 1-2 cc for younger squirrels) every 2-3 hours for infants under 6 weeks old.

4. Monitor and Adjust

Keep an eye on the infant squirrel’s weight and health. You should notice gradual weight gain. If the squirrel is not gaining weight, consult a wildlife care expert.

Solid Food Introduction

As the infant squirrel approaches 6 weeks of age, you can begin introducing solid foods. Here’s how to do it:

Soft Foods First: Start with soft fruits like bananas, apples, or avocados. You can also offer cooked sweet potatoes or squash.
Nuts and Seeds: Gradually introduce small pieces of nuts (unsalted) and seeds. Ensure they are small enough for the squirrel to chew.
Commercial Squirrel Food: Specially formulated squirrel food can be offered, ensuring it’s suited for small mammals.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When caring for an infant squirrel, you may encounter a few common issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

Refusal to Eat

If the squirrel refuses to eat, try the following:

Check the temperature of the formula; it may be too cold or too hot.
Make sure the feeding syringe or bottle is clean and functioning properly.
Ensure the squirrel is in a calm environment, free from stress or distractions.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea can be a sign of improper feeding or formula:

Ensure you are using the correct formula and not cow’s milk.
Reduce the feeding amounts slightly and monitor for improvement.
Consult with a wildlife care expert if diarrhea persists.

Dehydration

If the squirrel appears lethargic or is not producing enough urine, it may be dehydrated:

Encourage hydration by offering electrolyte solutions designed for small mammals.
Consult a veterinarian or wildlife care expert for proper treatment.

Rescue Tips for Baby Squirrels

If you find an orphaned or injured infant squirrel, follow these rescue tips:

Assess the Situation: Determine if the squirrel truly needs rescuing. If it’s unharmed and with its mother, it’s best to leave it alone.
Wear Gloves: Always wear gloves when handling wild animals to protect both you and the animal.
Contact Wildlife Rescue: Reach out to a local wildlife rescue organization for guidance and assistance.

Animal Nutrition for Squirrels

Understanding animal nutrition is essential for the health of baby squirrels. As they grow, their dietary needs will change:

High Protein Diet: Baby squirrels need a diet rich in protein for growth. This includes high-quality formulas and eventually high-protein solid foods.
Balanced Diet: As they mature, include a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds to provide balanced nutrition.
Avoid Processed Foods: Do not feed squirrels processed foods or those high in sugar, salt, or fat.

Rehabilitation and Release

Once the infant squirrel is healthy and has grown, the final step is rehabilitation and eventual release:

Gradual Acclimatization: Before release, allow the squirrel to acclimate to outdoor environments by providing a safe outdoor space.
Monitor Behavior: Observe the squirrel’s behavior to ensure it can forage and interact with its environment.
Release Location: Choose a release location that is safe, with adequate food sources and shelter.

Conclusion

Caring for an infant squirrel can be a rewarding but challenging experience. By understanding what to feed an infant squirrel and following the guidelines laid out in this article, you can ensure that these small mammals receive the proper care they need. Remember, when in doubt, consult with professionals in wildlife care or rehabilitation. Your efforts can make a significant difference in the life of a baby squirrel.

For more information on wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, visit the Wildlife Rehabilitation Association. Additionally, check out our wildlife care tips for more insights on helping small mammals thrive.

This article is in the category Care and created by KidsHealthExperts Team