Fruits & Veggies for Squirrels

Precautions

Squirrels don’t digest sugars the way people do so sugary fruits should be offered in moderation; as well as, those foods that have been marked with an asterisk (*).  These items may be offered to your squirrel, but they may contain compounds that are unhealthy if eaten to excess.  For example, fresh corn is very, very high in phosphorus which can exacerbate problems with metabolic bone disease in individuals with a diet already low in calcium.   Always ensure food is thoroughly washed, free of pesticides and fresh. If its unfit for your consumption, its not going to be appetizing to your squirrel either.

 

Variety is Key!

The trick with squirrels is to keep the diet varied.  Constantly changing these supplemental foods keeps your squirrel interested and entertained.  Squirrels tire quickly of the same foods and may decide tomorrow they dislike a food they seem to love today.   At squirrel refuge, we switch supplemental foods daily, not repeating the same foods for at least three days. This helps keep the squirrels interested and ensures a variety of vitamins and minerals are present in the diet.

 

Foods to Avoid

All dried fruits and vegetables including corn, peanuts, sunflower seeds or other standard ‘critter mixes.’  Its ok to give these to your squirrels on a rare occasion in moderation, but know that they are equivalent to a diet of candy and cannot sustain a captive squirrel long term.

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Please discuss the diet with a knowledgeable resource or your veterinarian.

 

Squirrel Refuge makes every effort to publish accurate information. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracy of all information, claims, and advice before taking any action that may cause harm to your pet or wildlife in your care. If you believe any information is inaccurate, please contact us.