How to Care for a Flying Squirrel

Flying squirrels are native to parts of North America and are named for their ability to glide seamlessly from one branch to another. They have gray-brown and white fur, curling tails and enormous round eyes. The animals grow from 8 to 11 inches long and weigh 2 to 4 oz. at maturity. Flying squirrels are active at night in the wild, but become accustomed to daytime activity when kept as pets. They live approximately 13 years if provided with good care and bond closely to humans if handled regularly.

Things You'll Need

  • Wire cage (24 inches long by 24 inches wide by 18 inches high)
  • Nesting box
  • Cotton or grass hay
  • Branches
  • Animal water bottle
  • Shallow food dishes
  • Hamster chew sticks
  • Commercial parrot food
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Bonding pouch
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide the flying squirrel with a wire cage that measures at least 24 inches long, 24 inches wide and 18 inches high. Make sure the bars on the selected cage are no more than 1/2 inch apart to prevent injury.

    • 2

      Mount a nesting box inside the cage that is 5 inches long, 5 inches wide, and 5 inches tall. Fill the nesting box with cotton or grass hay to provide the flying squirrel with a dark place for sleeping.

    • 3

      Position three to four branches of varying sizes inside the cage.

    • 4

      Attach an animal water bottle to the cage. Position it next to a branch or perch so that it is easily accessible. Refill the water bottle each day or anytime that it becomes empty.

    • 5

      Equip the cage with two shallow food dishes, one for seeds and the other for nuts and fruit.

    • 6

      Supply the flying squirrel with hamster chew sticks, as the animals' teeth are always growing and chewing is necessary for good health.

    • 7

      Provide commercial parrot food daily.

    • 8

      Offer fresh fruits and vegetables each day, such as bananas, apples, carrots, celery and green beans. Dispose of fruits and vegetables daily, before they spoil.

    • 9

      Wash the water bottle and food dishes each day with hot water.

    • 10

      Allow the flying squirrel to play outside the cage each day. They also enjoy spending time in a bonding pouch, which is made of soft fabric and allows you to carry the animal safely while going about indoor activities.

    • 11

      Clean the cage and its accessories each week with hot water.