Squirrels are cute and furry creatures that we often see scampering around in our backyards or parks. They are known for their love of nuts and seeds, but have you ever wondered if they can drink almond milk?
With the rise of plant-based milk alternatives, it’s natural to wonder if our furry friends can enjoy them too. In this article, we’ll explore whether or not squirrels can drink almond milk and what other types of milk are safe for them.
So, let’s dive in and find out!
Can Squirrels Drink Almond Milk?
Almond milk is a popular milk alternative that is made from processing almonds. While it is safe for adult squirrels to consume in moderation, it is not recommended for baby squirrels. Baby squirrels have a fragile digestive system that cannot handle nutritional imbalances, and almond milk may not provide the necessary nutrients for their growth and development.
It’s important to note that not all types of milk are safe for squirrels. Cow milk, kitten milk, human milk, and evaporated or skimmed milk are all harmful choices for baby squirrels. These types of milk can irritate their digestive system, cause overhydration or diarrhea, and even lead to sudden death.
If you find a baby squirrel and need to feed it, it’s important to use vet-recommended formula or mother’s milk. Do not use Esbilac liquid, KMR, human baby formula, condensed milk, scalded milk, GNC puppy formula, soy/almond milk, Pet-Lac, kitten formula, Whiskas Cat Milk, Esbilac “Milk Replacer Plus,” breast milk, regular milk, Kid Milk, etc. Make sure fluids/formula are very warm as baby squirrels will not drink liquid that is only slightly warm.
What Do Squirrels Normally Drink?
Squirrels normally drink water, and they require a clean source of water to maintain their health. They drink between 30 to 60 mL of water per day on average, and they usually only drink twice a day. Squirrels get water from rainwater, leaves, grass, and their food, such as vegetables, fruits, and plants like mushrooms. They don’t require a lot of water like other animals and humans, so their diet helps with hydrating themselves. Squirrels are not picky when it comes to drinking and will drink whatever they find. They will obtain water from any source they can find, including bird baths and ponds. Squirrels also have a unique way of drinking water by lapping it up with their tongue in quick movements. While squirrels may enjoy drinking other types of liquids like beers, alcohol, milk, and sugary drinks more than water, it is important to note that these types of drinks are not suitable for their health and should be avoided.
Is Almond Milk Safe For Squirrels?
Almond milk is not safe for baby squirrels. While it may be a healthy choice for humans, it lacks some of the essential nutrients that baby squirrels need, such as iron and calcium. Additionally, almond milk contains toxins that can be harmful to baby squirrels and may cause gastrointestinal distress or even death.
It’s important to remember that baby squirrels are born blind and deaf and are completely dependent on their mother’s milk for nutrition. If you are feeding a baby squirrel, stick to formula that is specifically designed for them. There are many different brands of squirrel formula available, and you can find them online or at your local pet store. Baby squirrel formula is nutritionally complete and will provide your little one with everything they need to grow up healthy and strong.
If you accidentally feed almond milk or any other harmful milk to a baby squirrel, it’s important to seek immediate veterinary care. Newborn animals are very sensitive to changes in their diet, and even a small mistake can have serious consequences. Always consult with a wildlife rehabber or veterinarian before attempting to feed a baby squirrel or any other wild animal.
The Nutritional Value Of Almond Milk For Squirrels
Almond milk is a healthy choice for humans as it is high in vitamin E and low in calories. However, when it comes to baby squirrels, almond milk may not provide the necessary nutrients they need for their growth and development. Baby squirrels require a specific balance of nutrients, including iron and calcium, that may not be present in almond milk. Additionally, almond milk contains toxins that can be harmful to baby squirrels, causing gastrointestinal distress or even death.
While it is safe for adult squirrels to consume almond milk in moderation, it is important to note that added calories from sweetened almond milk can lead to obesity and other health issues. It is essential to provide squirrels with a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.
Other Safe Milk Alternatives For Squirrels
If you’re unable to find vet-recommended formula or mother’s milk, there are some other safe milk alternatives for squirrels that you can consider. One popular option is goat milk, which has a similar nutritional profile to mother’s milk and is easily digestible for baby squirrels. Cow milk should be avoided, as mentioned earlier, but goat milk is a safe and nutritious alternative.
Another option is soy milk, which is a plant-based alternative to cow milk. However, it’s important to choose a soy milk that is specifically formulated for infants, as regular soy milk may not provide the necessary nutrients for baby squirrels. Make sure to check with your veterinarian before using soy milk as a substitute.
It’s also possible to mix different types of milk to create a balanced formula for baby squirrels. For example, you can mix Esbilac puppy milk replacer with goat milk or even almond milk in small amounts. However, it’s important to ensure that the formula provides all the necessary nutrients for the baby squirrel’s growth and development.
In addition to these milk alternatives, you can also consider using yogurt as a source of probiotics and calcium. Plain yogurt can be mixed with formula or given separately as a treat. Arrowroot flour can also be added to thicken the formula or used in baking treats for adult squirrels.
How To Offer Milk To Squirrels Safely
If you need to offer milk to a baby squirrel, it’s important to do so safely. First, ensure that the animal is warm to the touch before administering any formula or milk replacer. You can warm the baby squirrel by placing a water bottle filled with hot water in a sock and placing it near the animal. Always use caution to ensure that the bottle will not burn or suffocate the animal.
When offering milk, fill the syringe slowly and completely to avoid air pockets which could endanger the health of the baby squirrel. If you’re using almond milk, it’s important to note that it may not be as easily digestible as cow’s milk and could cause diarrhea or an upset stomach. Therefore, it’s recommended to mix almond milk with a vet-recommended formula or mother’s milk.
It’s also important to weigh the baby squirrel regularly and feed it according to its weight. Use a digital scale to weigh the baby squirrel and syringes to feed it with. If you’re unsure about how much milk to give, consult with a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
