Comprehensive Squirrel Care Guide

Squirrel Products

Note: Exotic Nutrition does not endorse the ownership of pet squirrels and encourages all individuals to follow local wildlife laws. This guide is intended to support the health and well-being of non-releasable or legally kept captive squirrels by providing expert-backed care and nutrition advice.

Housing & Enrichment

A squirrel's enclosure should prioritize space, safety, and stimulation. We recommend the Borneo Cage by Exotic Nutrition, specially designed for exotic pets of durable, powder coated steel (pet safe) with correct bar spacing and ample vertical space.

• Provide nesting options near the upper level to help your squirrel feel safe.

• Include small, clean, unsprayed branches (apple, maple, or oak) for gnawing.

• Avoid dyed or colored wood chews; use natural chewing materials.

• Use ceramic or stainless steel food dishes and avoid plastic. 

Enrichment Essentials:

• Offer daily supervised out-of-cage playtime in a squirrel-proof area.

• Avoid plastic toys; opt for more natural options.

• Consider a large metal exercise wheel like the Chin-Sprint Wheel 15"

Handling & Bonding

Early bonding is crucial. Gentle daily interaction builds trust.

• Use an Exotic Nutrition Bonding Scarf for hands-free bonding.

• Avoid roughhousing; understand grooming vs. biting behavior.

• Protect yourself with long sleeves and safety glasses to avoid nail scratches.

• Nail trimming is not recommended unless necessary. If trimming, use extreme caution and never cut the quick.

Communication

Squirrels communicate through sounds and body language:

• Teeth chattering: aggression

• Ear pinning: fear

• Tail flicks/Kuks/Qua’s: alarm calls

• Muk-muk: affectionate vocalization

Cleaning

Clean your squirrel's enclosure daily:

• Use fleece, cage liners, or Orchard Grass for soft flooring.

• Avoid loose substrate bedding.

• Clean nest boxes when squirrels are not present.

• Use Exotic Nutrition Kage Kleen for safe, effective cage cleaning.

Nutrition

The suggested foundation of a squirrel’s diet should be Exotic Nutrition Premium Squirrel Blocks, developed to meet the nutritional needs of captive squirrels. Feed the Premium Squirrel Blocks as the main diet, along with supplemental food sources including Exotic Nutrition's Squirrel Complete, Beneficial Blocks, and Garden Fresh Re-Hydrate.

Daily Feeding Recommendations:

• Base Diet:  Exotic Nutrition Premium Squirrel Blocks (available 24/7) Supplemented with Beneficial Blocks

• Fresh Additions: Small amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables or Garden Fresh Re-Hydrate.

• Treats (limited): Treats should be fed sparingly; it is not a substitute for a regular, balanced diet. Offer treats 2-3 times per week or as a small portion (less than 10%) of the main diet. 

Avoid:

• Sunflower seeds (high in phosphorus)

• Wild acorns (risk of aflatoxin)

• Excessive nuts (may lead to Metabolic Bone Disease)

Offer Beneficial Blocks to supplement enrichment and dental health.

Hydration

• Use a glass water bottle with stainless steel tube like Exotic Nutrition's Glass Water Bottle.

• Change water daily. Alway available. 

• Avoid soap residue; clean with baking soda and water.

Interaction with Children and Pets

Squirrels can become aggressive toward unfamiliar people and animals. They should:

• Be kept in a squirrel-only room

• Not interact with young children or household pets

Outdoor Time

Squirrels should never be outside unattended. Use:

• Securely locked outdoor "sunning cages" with shade

• Avoid direct sunlight above 85°F

Illness & Emergency Care

Signs of illness include lethargy, discharge, labored breathing, or refusal to eat. For medical help, search online to find a local licensed wildlife rehabilitator or a veterinarian that specializes in exotics such as squirrels. 

• Squirrels do not typically carry rabies.

• Keep bites clean with soap and water.

Veterinary Support

For assistance finding experts that have experience treating squirrles, search online for local licensed wildlife rehabilitators that can further assist you. Do not use your home address on vet intake forms in restricted states.

Special Considerations

Non-releasable (NR) squirrels may have physical or neurological impairments. A licensed wildlife rehabilitator is the best option in these situations to support long-term care for special needs squirrels. For medical help, search online to find a local licensed wildlife rehabilitator. 

• Provide specialized housing

• Monitor for UTI, pressure sores, or scalds

• Use Exotic Nutrition's Premium Squirrel Blocks for hand-feeding special needs squirrels

Legal Considerations

Ownership laws vary by state. Some states allow permanent care of NR squirrels with appropriate permits. Many states do not allow pet squirrels. Contact your local wildlife authority for guidance.

Lifespan & Commitment

Captive squirrels can live up to 14 years. This is a long-term commitment requiring consistent, attentive care.

Need Help? Contact Exotic Nutrition for product guidance.

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