Feeding a baby squirrel requires special care and attention. Here are some steps and tips to follow:
Formula Feeding:
- Formula, also called “milk replacer,” is what baby squirrels eat. A good formula recipe is 3 tablespoons goat milk, 3 tablespoons plain yogurt, 2 tablespoons heavy cream, and ½ egg yolk.
- Make sure the formula is very warm, as baby squirrels will not drink enough formula if it is only slightly warm.
- Mix the formula with very warm water and allow it to sit for a while (or overnight) in the fridge so it dissolves.
- Draw up enough syringes of cold formula for the feeding, but do not overfeed or increase feeding amounts too quickly. Baby squirrels will overeat if you let them and get diarrhea or bloating, which can be fatal.
- Weigh the baby every day at the same time to determine if they are gaining or losing weight and adjust the formula amount as needed.
- A baby squirrel less than 5 weeks old will need to be stimulated to poop and pee. Use a warm, wet cotton ball, Q-tip, the corner of a Kleenex, or your finger, and flick lightly across the genital area. Some babies may need stimulation before and after feeding.
Solid Food:
- Once the baby squirrel is around 6 to 7 weeks old, it’s safe to introduce solid foods. Do not neglect the formula, which is still needed every 4 hours.
- Vegetables like broccoli, kale, and sweet potatoes offer an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. They are also an easy solid food for baby squirrels to chew and digest.
- Fruits like apples and grapes can also be given to baby squirrels.
- Nuts like pecans can be given to baby squirrels once they are around 8 weeks old.
- Avoid feeding baby squirrels any kind of cow’s milk or soymilk, as these milks are quick killers for wildlife. Also, do not use homemade formulas that can be found on the Internet, as they are totally inappropriate for squirrels and the long-term effects can be deadly for them.
It is important to note that baby squirrels need lots of attention and affection, especially if they have no siblings. If you find a baby squirrel, it is recommended to take it to a licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator immediately upon receiving the animal.
