How to Take Care of a Squirrel

While some people believe that squirrels should be left in the wild, others decide that they want to raise them as pets. If you have made the choice to have a pet squirrel, then you need to know how to properly care for it.

Things You'll Need

  • Large, well-equipped cage
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get a squirrel when it is young. It will be much easier for it to adapt to living with humans than if it had been living in a wild environment.

    • 2

      Make sure the squirrel's cage is elevated and provides plenty of room for him to jump about. Put it in an area where other animals or reptiles can't get to it. Secure the door so that your squirrel can't escape. Keep the cage clean regularly, to keep it from smelling and to keep your pet healthy. Put branches or tree-like objects in the cage so he can get exercise and add a few "chew toys."

    • 3

      Feed your squirrel a nutritious diet. Bananas, apples, carrots, lettuce, green beans and mealworms are a few examples of what you can feed him.

    • 4

      Keep your squirrel well watered. Put a dish of water in his cage, and remember to change it often.

    • 5

      Look out for signs that your squirrel might be sick. If he exhibits loss of appetite, lethargy, watery eyes, diarrhea or other abnormal symptoms, get him to a veterinarian immediately.

    • 6

      Be very careful who you allow to handle your pet. Squirrels can easily be injured if someone handles them roughly. The can bite if they feel threatened.