Squirrels, with their bushy tails and playful antics, might seem like delightful pets. Their intelligence and curious nature can be captivating, leading many to wonder, “Can You Keep A Wild Squirrel As A Pet?”. While the idea of a pet squirrel might be appealing, it’s crucial to understand the realities and responsibilities involved before you consider bringing one into your home.
Keeping a wild squirrel as a pet is not as straightforward as domesticating a cat or dog. Squirrels are wild animals with specific needs that differ significantly from typical household pets. Before making any decisions, consider several key aspects to ensure the well-being of both you and the squirrel.
One of the primary considerations is accommodation. Squirrels are active creatures that thrive on climbing and exploring. Confining them to small, inadequate spaces can lead to stress and health problems. If you are considering housing a squirrel, a spacious and secure enclosure is paramount. Traditional cages designed for rabbits or chickens are often unsuitable as squirrels are adept at escaping through small openings.
A custom-built cage using mesh wire is often the best option for pet squirrels. This material provides security while allowing them the necessary climbing opportunities. The cage should be generously sized, ideally a minimum of two feet in width, length, and height, offering ample room for movement. Vertical space is particularly important as squirrels are natural climbers.
Proper feeding is another critical aspect of squirrel care. In the wild, squirrels have a varied diet, and replicating this in captivity is essential for their health. Their natural diet includes items like pinecones, seeds, mushrooms, flowers, buds, berries, acorns, walnuts, and pecans. These foods provide the necessary nutrients and variety for a healthy squirrel.
While squirrels are opportunistic eaters and may be tempted by human food, such as cakes and processed snacks, these are detrimental to their health. An inappropriate diet can quickly lead to obesity and digestive issues in squirrels. It’s your responsibility to ensure they receive a balanced and species-appropriate diet that mimics their natural food sources.
Training a squirrel presents unique challenges due to their wild nature. They are intelligent animals but lack the domestication history of animals like dogs, making traditional training methods less effective. However, some degree of habit formation is possible, particularly with consistent routines and positive reinforcement.
Toilet training, especially for young squirrels, requires patience and dedication. Baby squirrels need stimulation to relieve themselves, which can be done using a damp cotton ball to gently massage their lower abdomen. As they mature, litter training can be attempted using a safe pellet litter. Placing their feces in the litter box can help them associate it with toileting.
General training should focus on positive reinforcement. Rewarding desired behaviors with praise or healthy treats can help establish routines. Punishment is ineffective and can be detrimental as many natural squirrel behaviors that might be considered “bad” are simply instincts. Instead of punishment, focus on removing access to unwanted items or redirecting their attention to a more suitable environment.
Ultimately, while it might be technically possible to keep a wild squirrel as a pet, it’s essential to carefully consider the significant commitment involved in providing proper care, housing, diet, and understanding their unique needs as wild animals. Ensuring their well-being should be the top priority when considering if “can you keep a wild squirrel as a pet” is the right question to ask.
