Jul 21 2008
Pet Squirrels
Squirrels are classified as small rodents. Red and flying squirrels weigh between 4 and 8 ounces where gray squirrels are much larger totaling between 12 and 28 ounces. Their lifespan is about 10 years in captivity, but in the wild it is much shorter due to the high likelihood of a predator attach.
Most squirrels are wild, and therefore, not available for pets. However, Southern Flying Squirrels are sometimes available for pets. It is important to make sure you have the time to commit to caring for a squirrel. A squirrel can be a great pet but does require lots of attention. Males and females vary little in their behavior patterns, so there is not a specific preference.
It is best to acquire a captive-bred squirrel who is young and has been separated from the mother at the right weaning time. By getting a squirrel as a baby, it will have time to adapt to you and tame. If you have two squirrels, it is best to house them in separate cages. They are solitary animals and prefer their own space. If you decide to use the same cage, make sure that they both have their own space to nest.
When choosing your Flying Squirrel, make sure it is healthy. Check for clear and bright eyes, a clear nose, a clean glossy coat, and that is of a healthy weight. Make sure the squirrel does not have ticks or fleas. Flying squirrels are shy at first, so they will be timid when you first meet them. Do not be surprised.
In the wild, squirrels all have the same diet. The diets differ by seasons as food becomes available. In general they eat mostly nuts, fruit, buds, grain, fledglings, and bird’s eggs. Pine seeds are especially love by Red Squirrels. In the winter, fungi and tree bark are common sources of nourishment. Squirrels often gather food to store for the winter as well.
In captivity, squirrels need to eat a variety of foods to receive adequate nutrition. Mixtures of vegetables such as green beans, carrots, and romaine lettuce and fruits such as bananas and apples are good foods. For protein, you can try mealworms and insects. Parrot food is also recommended as it as a good variety of seeds. Calcium supplements are highly recommended. There are various types of powders and tablets available. Squirrels teeth grow constantly, so they need to have plenty of chewing material. Hard bard and large bones are ideal. Keep your squirrel constantly supplied with water in either a heavy dish or a water bottle.
If you would like more information on caring for your squirrel, visit http://www.houstonveterinarianclinics.com
Joseph Devine
Tags: Houston squirrels, Houston Veterinarian, Houston Veterinarian Clinic
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