Healthy and Unhealthy Foods for Squirrels
Squirrels are energetic, curious animals that require a well-balanced diet to stay healthy. Whether you're feeding backyard squirrels or caring for a pet squirrel, it's essential to provide the right foods to support their nutrition. Below, we’ll explore the best and worst foods for squirrels, along with some excellent options from Exotic Nutrition to keep them happy and healthy.
Healthy Foods for Squirrels
A well-rounded squirrel diet includes a variety of natural foods that offer essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Here are some of the best food choices:
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High-Quality Pelleted Diets – Formulated specifically for squirrels, Squirrel Complete Squirrel Food
provides a balanced blend of proteins, fiber, and essential nutrients for optimal health.
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Nuts and Seeds – Offer unsalted, raw nuts such as pecans, walnuts, and almonds in moderation.
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Fresh Fruits and Vegetables – Squirrels enjoy apples, berries, carrots, and leafy greens. However, limit sugary fruits.
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Protein Sources – Insects like dried mealworms and black soldier fly larvae provide much-needed protein.
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Foraging Treats – Encourage natural behaviors with toys like the Triple Treat Forager.
Unhealthy Foods for Squirrels
While squirrels may try to eat almost anything, some foods can be harmful or provide little nutritional value:
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Processed and Sugary Foods – Avoid feeding squirrels candy, bread, cookies, or other highly processed snacks.
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Salty and Fried Foods – Chips, pretzels, and salted nuts can lead to dehydration and other health issues.
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Dairy Products – Squirrels have difficulty digesting dairy, which can cause stomach discomfort.
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Avocado and Onion – These foods contain substances that can be toxic to squirrels.
Treat Your Squirrel the Right Way
Providing the right diet is key to a squirrel’s overall health and well-being. If you’re looking for safe and delicious treats, check out Squirrel Treat Bundle, which offers a variety of nutritious snacks squirrels love.
By feeding squirrels a balanced diet, you can help ensure they live long, healthy lives. Browse Exotic Nutrition’s full selection of squirrel food and treats here.
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Notice: Exotic Nutrition cannot provide specific care guidelines on an individual basis. Please consult a veterinarian or experienced breeder.
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Comments (10)
My dog brought me 3 newborn squirrels, still pink with no hair. Only one has survived. It’s now about 5 weeks old. He opened his eyes 2 days ago. I’ve been offering nuts and fruit but so far he won’t take it. And I believe he has a cold. He’s sneezing quite often with mucus coming from his nose when he sneezes. Please help me to know what to do. I’ve grown rather attached to him and he has me as well. Infact, he wants to be under my neck or arm at all times. He is spoiled rotten. His name is Bucket and he has even been sleeping in bed with me under my neck? He’s absolutely the most adorable baby ever and I want to make sure I give him the best care possible. Can you send me some advice please? Thank you
I now have this information to relay to my students. The school I work at has a huge population of squirrels who cone out at lunchtime when the kids are eating, and I don’t allow the kids to feed the squirrels. I’ll be sharing this information with them tomorrow. Thank you!
soooooo much help ty!!!
I just bought roasted peanut pick outs for the squirrels. Is this safe for them?
This information is very helpful because people give the squirrels bad food that I’ve witnessed like donuts, pastries, salted peanuts and other junk they get from the trash and on the ground. They are getting fat the cute little squirrels
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