Many people are unaware that baby squirrels require a special diet to thrive. Often, people find orphaned or injured baby squirrels and want to help, but they may not know what to feed them. One common question is whether baby squirrels can drink kitten formula.
While it may seem logical to feed a baby squirrel kitten formula, it is essential to understand that squirrels have different nutritional needs than kittens. Kitten formula is specifically formulated for the nutritional needs of cats and may not provide the necessary nutrients for a baby squirrel to develop appropriately.
So, can baby squirrels drink kitten formula?
The short answer is no. Baby squirrels require a specialized formula designed to meet their unique nutritional needs. This article will explore why kitten formula is unsuitable for baby squirrels and what you should feed them instead.
Can Baby Squirrels Drink Kitten Formula?
When it comes to feeding baby squirrels, there are many different options. However, one question often arises whether or not it is safe to provide them with kitten formula. Here, we will explore some factors and potential risks associated with feeding baby squirrels kitten formula.
Factors to Consider
One of the main factors to consider when deciding what to feed baby squirrels is their nutritional needs. Baby squirrels require a diet high in fat and protein, as well as other essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. Kitten formula can be a good option because it is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of baby cats, which are similar to those of baby squirrels.
Another factor to consider is the availability of other food sources. For example, if baby squirrels are orphaned or separated from their mother, they may not have access to the natural foods they usually eat in the wild. In these cases, kitten formula can be an excellent way to provide them with the nutrition they need to survive.
Potential Risks
While kitten formula can be a good option for feeding baby squirrels, there are also some potential risks to remember. One of the main risks is that kitten formula may not be well-tolerated by some baby squirrels. Some squirrels may experience digestive upset or other health problems if fed kitten formula.
Another potential risk is that kitten formula may not provide all the nutrients baby squirrels need to thrive. While kitten formula is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of baby cats, it may not be the best option for baby squirrels.
In some cases, it may be necessary to supplement kitten formula with other foods to ensure that baby squirrels get all the nutrients they need.
Overall, whether or not to feed baby squirrels, kitten formula is a decision that should be made on a case-by-case basis. Factors like the nutritional needs of the baby squirrels and the availability of other food sources should be considered. While kitten formula can be a good option in some cases, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks and to take steps to minimize them.
How to Feed Baby Squirrels
Feeding Schedule
Feeding baby squirrels is a time-consuming task that requires a lot of dedication. You must provide them every 3-4 hours, including nighttime. Therefore, it is essential to establish a feeding schedule and stick to it to ensure the baby squirrels get the nutrition they need.
Here is a sample feeding schedule:
| Time | Amount |
|---|---|
| 6:00 am | 1-2 cc |
| 9:00 am | 2-3 cc |
| 12:00 pm | 3-4 cc |
| 3:00 pm | 4-5 cc |
| 6:00 pm | 5-6 cc |
| 9:00 pm | 6-7 cc |
| 12:00 am | 7-8 cc |
| 3:00 am | 8-9 cc |
Feeding Methods
Two main methods for feeding baby squirrels are using a syringe or a feeding bottle. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the one that works best for you and the baby squirrels is essential.
- Syringe: Using a syringe is the most common method for feeding baby squirrels. It allows you to control the amount of formula the baby squirrel is getting and is less likely to cause aspiration. However, it can be time-consuming and requires a steady hand.
- Feeding Bottle: A feeding bottle is a good option if you have multiple baby squirrels to feed. It is less time-consuming and easier to use than a syringe. However, it cannot be easy to control how much formula the baby squirrel gets, and it can cause aspiration if not used correctly.
Regardless of your chosen method, it’s essential to ensure the formula is at the correct temperature and to burp the baby squirrel after each feeding to prevent gas and bloating.
Conclusion
Based on the information gathered, baby squirrels can drink kitten formula as a temporary solution. However, it is essential to note that kitten formula is not a substitute for their natural diet and should not be given long-term.
It is recommended that baby squirrels be taken to a wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible to receive proper care and nutrition. Wildlife rehabilitators have the knowledge and experience to provide the appropriate diet and care for baby squirrels, ensuring their best chance of survival and successful release back into the wild.
It is also important to remember that baby squirrels are wild animals and should not be kept as pets. Raising a baby squirrel alone can be dangerous for you and the animal. In addition, in many states, it is illegal to keep wildlife as pets, and attempting to do so can result in fines or other legal consequences.
