Squirrels are cute, curious creatures that can make great pets. They are active, playful, and social animals that can provide hours of entertainment. However, before you bring a squirrel home, it's important to do your research and make sure that you're prepared to provide the care and attention that they need.

How Do I Get a Pet Squirrel

Things to Consider Before Getting a Pet Squirrel

There are a few things you should consider before bringing a squirrel home, including:

  • Legality: In some areas, it is illegal to own a squirrel as a pet. Check your local laws to make sure that it's legal to own a squirrel in your area.
  • Housing: Squirrels need a large, secure cage that is at least 3 feet wide, 2 feet long, and 3 feet high. The cage should have plenty of climbing and hiding spaces, as well as a place for the squirrel to sleep.
  • Diet: Squirrels are omnivores and eat a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. They also need a constant supply of fresh water.
  • Exercise: Squirrels are very active animals and need plenty of exercise. They should have access to a wheel or other running toy, as well as a place to climb and explore.
  • Socialization: Squirrels are social animals and do best when they have a companion. If you can't provide a companion for your squirrel, you should spend at least an hour each day interacting with it.

Where to Get a Pet Squirrel

There are a few places where you can get a pet squirrel, including:

  • Local animal shelters: Some animal shelters may have squirrels that are available for adoption.
  • Pet stores: Some pet stores sell squirrels, but it's important to make sure that the pet store is reputable and that the squirrels are healthy.
  • Online: You can also find squirrels for sale online, but it's important to be careful when buying a pet online. Make sure that you do your research and only buy from a reputable breeder.

Caring for a Pet Squirrel

Once you have brought your squirrel home, it's important to provide it with the proper care and attention. This includes:

  • Feeding your squirrel a healthy diet: Squirrels should be fed a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. They also need a constant supply of fresh water.
  • Providing your squirrel with a clean, safe environment: Squirrels need a large, secure cage that is kept clean. They also need a place to sleep, a place to climb, and a place to exercise.
  • Socializing your squirrel: Squirrels are social animals and do best when they have a companion. If you can't provide a companion for your squirrel, you should spend at least an hour each day interacting with it.
  • Taking your squirrel to the vet for regular checkups: Squirrels should be taken to the vet for regular checkups to ensure that they are healthy and to catch any potential health problems early.

Conclusion

Squirrels can make great pets, but they are not for everyone. They require a lot of care and attention, and they can be expensive to keep. If you are considering getting a pet squirrel, make sure that you do your research and are prepared to provide the care and attention that they need.