Squirrels as Pets: A Complete and Compassionate Guide to Their Care and Well-being

Squirrels as Pets: A Complete and Compassionate Guide to Their Care and Well-being

Squirrels, with their quick movements, intelligent eyes, and fluffy tails, have long fascinated people around the world. While they are most commonly seen darting through trees and hoarding acorns in parks or forests, some animal lovers find themselves wondering: Can a squirrel become a pet?

The short answer is yes, but with important considerations. Squirrels are wild animals by nature, not traditionally domesticated like cats or dogs. Caring for one in captivity involves a deep understanding of their physical needs, behavioral traits, and overall health. This guide explores what it truly means to care for a squirrel as a pet, from their habits and nutrition to their behavior and medical needs, so you can decide whether such a commitment is right for you.

Understanding Squirrel Behavior and Natural Instincts

Squirrels are incredibly intelligent and active creatures. In the wild, they spend most of their time exploring, climbing, leaping through trees, and foraging for food. These instincts don’t disappear in a domestic environment. In fact, when kept as pets, squirrels require a space that allows for freedom of movement, especially vertical climbing. Without this, they can become stressed, frustrated, or even aggressive.

Mentally, squirrels are curious and quick learners. They’ll often investigate new objects, play with toys, or even interact with their human caregivers in charming ways, if they’ve been socialized properly. Many pet squirrels recognize their owners, respond to voices, and even enjoy physical affection, such as grooming or sitting on a shoulder. However, they are still driven by survival instincts and can become territorial or skittish, especially if they are older or not raised from infancy.

Creating a Safe and Enriching Environment

Housing a squirrel isn’t as simple as buying a small cage. These animals require spacious, secure enclosures that offer both vertical height and physical enrichment. A large aviary-style cage is ideal, especially one filled with natural branches, ropes, and platforms. This not only mimics their forest environment but also supports their strong desire to climb, chew, and explore.

You should avoid plastic accessories, as squirrels will often chew through them. Wood, untreated rope, and metal are more suitable materials. A nesting box or hollow log gives your squirrel a place to retreat, rest, or sleep. Privacy is just as important for their well-being as play.

Additionally, squirrels are highly susceptible to stress from noise, predators (like cats or dogs), or overhandling. Keep their enclosure in a quiet, secure area of your home away from loud electronics and heavy foot traffic.

Nutrition: Feeding Your Pet Squirrel the Right Way

A squirrel’s diet in the wild is highly diverse, and you should aim to replicate that variety as much as possible in captivity. Squirrels are omnivores, and while they are well-known for their love of nuts, their dietary needs go far beyond just acorns.

Here’s a breakdown of healthy foods for pet squirrels:

• Nuts (in moderation): Walnuts, almonds, pecans, and hazelnuts, preferably raw and unsalted.
• Fruits: Apples, berries, bananas, grapes (seedless), and melon offer vitamins and hydration.
• Vegetables: Carrots, leafy greens (like kale and spinach), squash, sweet potatoes, and broccoli.
• Protein sources: Boiled eggs, mealworms, cooked chicken (in small amounts), and high-quality rodent pellets.
• Occasional treats: Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or dried fruits (unsweetened).

Avoid feeding your squirrel chocolate, caffeine, onions, processed snacks, or anything with artificial sweeteners. These foods can be toxic and even fatal. Additionally, limit the amount of high-fat nuts like peanuts or cashews, as they can contribute to obesity and liver issues when overfed.

Water should always be fresh and available, served in a clean bowl or small animal water bottle.

Monitoring Health and Recognizing Warning Signs

Caring for a squirrel includes keeping a close eye on their physical and behavioral health. Squirrels can hide symptoms of illness very well, so early detection is essential.

Some common health problems in captive squirrels include:

• Dental overgrowth, as their teeth grow continuously. This can cause difficulty eating or injuries inside the mouth.
• Obesity, often due to a diet too high in nuts or a lack of exercise.
• Respiratory infections, caused by dusty bedding, poor ventilation, or sudden temperature changes.
• Parasites, such as mites or intestinal worms, are particularly problematic if the squirrel was originally rescued from the wild.

Be alert for any of the following signs:

• Loss of appetite or weight
• Lethargy or unusual hiding
• Sneezing, wheezing, or discharge from the nose
• Excessive scratching or fur loss
• Diarrhea or changes in droppings
• Trouble climbing or coordination issues

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian who specializes in exotic or wild animals. Many regular vets are not trained to treat squirrels, so it's important to find one with appropriate experience.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Before deciding to keep a squirrel as a pet, it’s crucial to check your local wildlife laws. In many areas, squirrels are a protected species, and keeping them without a permit is illegal. Even where ownership is allowed, you may need a wildlife rehabilitation license or special permission.

Ethically, consider whether you are prepared for the long-term responsibility. Squirrels can live 8 to 10 years in captivity, and they require a highly specialized environment. Releasing a pet squirrel back into the wild is usually unsafe for the animal and may be illegal.

A Rewarding but Demanding Commitment

Owning a pet squirrel is not for everyone, but for those who take the time to learn and care deeply, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. These animals are intelligent, engaging, and full of personality, but they are also complex and sensitive and require far more care than most traditional pets.

By providing a proper diet, a safe and stimulating environment, regular health checks, and respect for their natural instincts, you can offer a pet squirrel a high-quality life in captivity. Just remember: this is not a casual pet. It’s a commitment, a lifestyle adjustment, and above all, a deep partnership with a wild soul who deserves your full understanding and respect.