Are you a wildlife enthusiast who has found a baby squirrel and is wondering what to feed it?
Or perhaps you’re a curious animal lover who wants to know if almond milk is a safe option for baby squirrels.
Whatever your reason for being here, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore the topic of feeding baby squirrels and whether or not almond milk is a suitable choice.
We’ll also provide some helpful tips and guidelines for caring for these adorable creatures.
So, let’s dive in and learn more about the world of baby squirrel nutrition!
Can Baby Squirrels Drink Almond Milk?
The short answer is no, baby squirrels should not be fed almond milk. While almond milk may be a nutritious option for humans, it is not suitable for the delicate digestive systems of baby squirrels.
In fact, giving baby squirrels any kind of milk that is high in lactose can be harmful and even fatal. Cow’s milk, kitten milk, and human breast milk are also not recommended for baby squirrels.
These types of milk can cause digestive issues, dehydration, overhydration, diarrhea, and even allergic reactions that can lead to sudden death.
Instead, it is recommended to use a specialized formula specifically designed for baby squirrels. These formulas can be found at wildlife rehabilitation centers or purchased online.
It’s important to note that even with the proper formula, caring for a baby squirrel requires specialized knowledge and expertise. If you find a baby squirrel in need of care, it’s best to contact a wildlife rehabilitation center or licensed wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
Understanding Baby Squirrel Nutrition
Understanding the nutritional needs of baby squirrels is crucial for their growth and development. Baby squirrels have delicate digestive systems that are not fully developed, and they require a specific diet to ensure their health and well-being.
For the first 10 weeks of their life, baby squirrels should be fed a specialized formula that is specifically designed for them. This formula should contain protein, fat, vitamins, minerals, and plenty of calcium. It’s important to note that cow’s milk, kitten milk, human breast milk, and almond milk are not suitable for baby squirrels and can cause serious health issues.
In addition to formula, baby squirrels can also be fed small amounts of solid food once they reach six weeks of age. This can include seeds, nuts, fruit, and vegetables. It’s important to introduce solid foods gradually and monitor the squirrel’s digestion to ensure they are tolerating the new foods well.
It’s also important to provide baby squirrels with a source of natural sunlight or a full-spectrum light for at least one hour per day. This helps provide them with vitamin D, which is crucial for their bone health.
When caring for a baby squirrel, it’s important to weigh them regularly to ensure they are growing at a healthy rate. Overfeeding can be dangerous for baby squirrels and can lead to diarrhea and other health issues. It’s recommended to use a gram scale to accurately measure the amount of formula and solid food they are consuming.
The Risks Of Feeding Almond Milk To Baby Squirrels
While almond milk may seem like a safe and nutritious alternative to cow’s milk, it is not appropriate for baby squirrels. Almond milk lacks the necessary nutrients and fat content that baby squirrels need to thrive.
Furthermore, some almond milk products may contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners, which can lead to oral diseases and obesity in baby squirrels.
Feeding baby squirrels almond milk can also disrupt their delicate digestive systems and cause imbalances that may lead to dehydration or diarrhea.
It’s important to remember that baby squirrels have specific nutritional needs that must be met in order for them to grow and develop properly. While it may be tempting to try feeding them alternative milk products, it is best to stick with specialized formulas designed specifically for their needs.
Safe And Healthy Alternatives For Feeding Baby Squirrels
If you need to feed a baby squirrel, there are several safe and healthy alternatives to almond milk. Some of the most popular options include goat milk, cow milk, and soy milk. These types of milk are safe for baby squirrels and can be used as a substitute for their mother’s milk.
If you are unable to find specialized formula for baby squirrels, you can make your own milk replacer using goat milk. To make the formula, mix 3 tablespoons of goat milk with 1 tablespoon of heavy cream and 1 tablespoon of Karo syrup. This mixture should be warmed to room temperature before being fed to the baby squirrel.
Another option is to use Esbilac Puppy Milk Replacer in Powder Form or Fox Valley 32/40. These formulas are specifically designed for young mammals and are safe for most animals. To prepare the formula, mix 1 part Esbilac to 2 parts hot water and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before use. Gradually increase the strength of the formula over time until the animal is on full strength formula.
It’s important to note that feeding a baby squirrel requires specialized knowledge and expertise. Improper feeding can lead to serious health issues or even death. If you find a baby squirrel in need of care, it’s best to contact a wildlife rehabilitation center or licensed wildlife rehabilitator for assistance. They can provide you with the proper guidance and resources needed to ensure the baby squirrel receives the care it needs to thrive.
Tips For Caring For Baby Squirrels In Need Of Nutrition
If you find a baby squirrel in need of nutrition, there are certain steps you can take to ensure their health and well-being. Here are some tips for caring for baby squirrels in need of nutrition:
1. Warm the squirrel: Before administering any formula, it’s important to ensure that the baby squirrel is warm to the touch. You can warm the squirrel by using a water bottle filled with hot water and placing it in a sock near the animal. Always use caution to avoid burning or suffocating the animal.
2. Use specialized formula: Never feed a baby squirrel human formula, cow’s milk, or milk substitutes. Instead, use a specialized formula specifically designed for baby squirrels, such as Esbilac, which can be found at veterinary offices and pet food stores.
3. Gradually introduce the formula: It’s important to gradually introduce the formula to the baby squirrel’s system in stages. Start with a mixture of one part powdered puppy milk in three parts Pedialyte or salt and sugar water, then gradually increase the ratio of puppy milk to rehydration solution until you’re feeding undiluted puppy milk.
4. Feed by weight: The amount you should feed a baby squirrel during each feeding will depend on its age and species. Use a digital scale to weigh the baby squirrel and feed according to its weight.
5. Offer frequent feedings: Offer the formula every two and a half hours and provide an additional feeding time during the night.
6. Check for dehydration: Pinch the skin on the belly and count how many seconds it takes for the skin to go back down flat. If it takes four seconds or more, the baby squirrel may be dehydrated and in need of immediate care.
7. Contact a wildlife rehabilitation center or licensed wildlife rehabilitator: Caring for a baby squirrel requires specialized knowledge and expertise. If you find a baby squirrel in need of care, it’s best to contact a wildlife rehabilitation center or licensed wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that a baby squirrel in need of nutrition receives proper care and has the best chance of survival.
Conclusion: What To Feed Baby Squirrels
When it comes to feeding baby squirrels, it’s important to provide them with the proper nutrition they need to grow and develop. Milk replacer, also known as formula, is the best option for baby squirrels.
There are several milk replacers available on the market, such as Esbilac Puppy Milk Replacer in Powder Form or Fox Valley 32/40. These can be safely used on most mammals without difficulties. When preparing the formula, it’s recommended to mix one part milk replacer with two parts hot water and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least two hours before first use.
It’s important to gradually increase the strength of the formula with each feeding until the baby squirrel is on full strength formula after 24 hours. The formula should always be warmed when feeding and administered at a warm but not hot temperature.
If you cannot find milk replacer, Ensure Vanilla Flavor can be used as a temporary solution. However, it’s important to note that this is not a long-term solution and should only be used until milk replacer can be obtained.
When feeding the baby squirrel, it’s important to avoid letting them latch onto a syringe, bottle, or dropper as this can cause aspiration. Instead, drop the liquid onto their tongue and make them lap up the solution.
It’s also important to keep in mind that the amount of formula needed for each feeding will depend on the baby squirrel’s age and species. Newborns to one week old Eastern grey squirrels may need .75cc-1.25cc every 2.5 hours while American red squirrels will need less food due to their smaller size.
