What to Feed a Squirrel For Calcium 
If you have a pet squirrel and want to provide him with a healthy diet, you should know what to feed a nutrient-rich food. Nuts are a good source of calcium and omega-3 fatty acids. Fruits are good sources of vitamins and minerals, too. These items are also nutritious and taste great. You can buy them from pet stores. However, remember to clean the feeder thoroughly at least once a week to prevent bacteria from growing. The cleaners are readily available at most animal feed stores. Aside from these ingredients, the feeder should not contain dried sweet foods. The dried sweet foods are not good for a squirrel’s health and can cause calcium deficiency.
Seeds are a good source of calcium
Squirrels need a varied diet rich in vitamins, minerals and calcium. Seeds are a good source of calcium, but avoid giving them bananas or dandelion greens. They will prefer seeds like hemp, pumpkin, sunflower and sesame. However, do not feed them peanuts or other nuts as these are also high in calcium and may be toxic to them.
Red squirrels love unshelled peanuts. They also prefer other types of peanuts. Carrots and apples are excellent calcium-rich snacks for squirrels. Avoid feeding them sweet corn or seeds with high sugar content. The nutrients in seeds are essential for the health of their bones. However, raw peanuts contain toxic mold. If you can’t find seeds with high calcium content, then you can try providing them with other foods such as dried fruits and meat.
Nuts are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids
Squirrels love legumes and other seeds. Peas, lentils and beans are great sources of protein for squirrels. Plant proteins are essential for squirrel health, so consider including them in your squirrel’s diet. Nuts, however, don’t provide all of these nutrients. Try mixing some of them with water and adding them to your squirrel’s food instead.
Although squirrels don’t necessarily care about healthy foods, walnuts and almonds are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. While English and White walnuts are rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, black walnuts are preferred by squirrels. Both varieties have an edible shell and have an oily, sweet taste. However, you should avoid giving squirrels your nuts if you’re allergic to them.
Antlers are a good source of calcium
Squirrels are known for their poor absorption of calcium from fruits and vegetables, so feeding them fruits and vegetables is often a challenge. Try offering small bits of fruit and vegetables as a first step. But remember that they need vitamin D to synthesize calcium, so you may want to supplement their diets with some vitamin D supplements. You can also provide calcium supplements by giving them antlers, which you can cling to trees to chew on.
Squirrels need a healthy diet, full of vitamins and minerals. Try giving them an assortment of natural foods, especially high-calcium vegetables. Try giving them broccoli, arugula and kale, since they are good sources of calcium. They can also eat radicchio, kale, and kale. However, don’t force your squirrel to eat the raw material of antler. They may get confused and don’t eat it.
Fruits are a good source of vitamins and minerals
Squirrels have been known to consume fruit in many places, including cities, suburban areas, and state/national parks. However, feeding your squirrel only fruit may cause problems with his or her health. Fruit contains high amounts of sugar and can cause tooth decay. Providing your squirrel with only fruit also means he or she will be missing out on essential nutrients. So, what should you feed your squirrel?
Squirrels love pecans and walnuts because they contain more phosphorus than calcium. However, too much of either one could lead to metabolic bone disease. Also, pecans contain fiber, healthy fat, and are an excellent source of protein. For optimal health, you should provide your squirrel with pecans every day. However, if your squirrel doesn’t like pecans, don’t give it to him!
Vegetables are a good source of vitamins and minerals
Fruits and vegetables are healthy for your pet. A variety of fruits and vegetables are nutritious for squirrels. Carrots are a favorite snack of many animals because they are sweet and crunchy. Carrots also contain important vitamins and minerals. They also provide energy. Squirrels like to gnaw on carrots because they are full of vitamins and minerals. They can also get some of their energy from eating grasshoppers.
Squirrels can survive on a diet of fruits and vegetables, but it is important to provide a rodent block, as well as a variety of vegetables and fruits. A rodent block contains the right amount of calcium for squirrels. A diet devoid of fruit or vegetables may result in Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD), a condition that can cripple and even kill captive wildlife. Squirrels should also be offered fresh fruits and vegetables that contain a calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of 2:1:1. You can also offer less-ideal foods like apples and oranges but with moderation.
Seeds are a good source of vitamins and minerals
Seeds are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and calories for squirrels. Squirrels can consume large seeds, but they don’t need the tiny ones. While seeds are a good source of calories and nutrients, they don’t supply the minerals and calcium needed by squirrels. That’s why it’s important to include other types of food in your squirrel’s diet.
Apples and other fruits are great treats for squirrels, and are also healthy sources of vitamin A. Apples are also great sources of antioxidants and help squirrels keep their immune systems strong. Grapes and watermelon are good sources of carbohydrates and are also safe for squirrels. Sunflower seeds are also great for squirrels, and are considered a safe snack. These tasty snacks are perfect for feeding squirrels when they’re on the go.
What are some foods that are high in calcium?
Some foods that are high in calcium are dairy products dark leafy greens tofu and certain beans.
Why is calcium important for squirrels?
Calcium is important for squirrels because it helps to keep their bones and teeth healthy.
How much calcium do squirrels need per day?
Depending on the size of the squirrel they generally need between 50 and 150 mg of calcium per day.
What happens if a squirrel doesn’t get enough calcium?
If a squirrel doesn’t get enough calcium they may develop health problems such as weak bones or osteoporosis.
What are some good sources of calcium for squirrels?
Some good sources of calcium for squirrels are nuts seeds and certain fruits and vegetables.
Can squirrels get calcium from other animals?
Yes squirrels can get calcium from other animals such as from insects or from eating eggs.
Do all squirrels need the same amount of calcium?
No different squirrels will need different amounts of calcium depending on their age size and health.
How can I tell if my squirrel is getting enough calcium?
You can talk to your veterinarian to see if your squirrel is getting enough calcium.
Is there such thing as too much calcium for squirrels?
Yes if squirrels consume too much calcium it can lead to health problems such as kidney stones.
What should I do if I think my squirrel is not getting enough calcium?
If you think your squirrel is not getting enough calcium you should talk to your veterinarian.
What are some signs that a squirrel is not getting enough calcium?
Some signs that a squirrel is not getting enough calcium are weakness skeletal deformities and seizures.
Can I give my squirrel calcium supplements?
You should talk to your veterinarian before giving your squirrel any calcium supplements.
What are some other ways to provide calcium for squirrels?
Some other ways to provide calcium for squirrels are by feeding them foods that are high in calcium or by giving them calcium supplements.
Is there anything I should avoid feeding my squirrel to make sure they get enough calcium?
You should avoid feeding your squirrel foods that are high in phosphorus as this can interfere with calcium absorption.
What else do I need to do to make sure my squirrel gets enough calcium?
You should also make sure that your squirrel has access to clean fresh water to drink as this will help them absorb calcium.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.
