How to Get a Pet Squirrel in Texas
If you’re wondering how to get a pet squirrel in Texas, keep reading. This article contains information on the legality of squirrels as pets, the cost of maintaining one, how to keep it healthy, and how to keep it out of the attic. Despite their cute faces, squirrels are not ideal pets. In order to keep them happy and healthy, you need to provide them with an adequate diet and exercise, which may include climbing trees.
Legality of keeping a squirrel as a pet in texas
It is illegal in Texas to own a squirrel without a license or a permit. The state does not allow humans to keep any species of wildlife as pets. Squirrels, however, can be legally owned as a pet if they are in a cage and are not released into the wild. Because squirrels are wild animals, it is best to consult your local government to determine the legalities.
The Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Coalition accepts injured and orphaned wildlife, including flying squirrels. However, it may not respond to your call quickly enough. It is therefore important to use gloves and a shallow box if possible. A soft cloth, such as a t-shirt, should line the box. Make sure to secure the box with holes. Do not place the squirrel in a plastic bag. Avoid feeding the animal, as it can be deadly if it is sick or injured.
Cost of keeping a squirrel
One of the biggest challenges of owning a squirrel is its cost. Although this species of animal is not known for its virulence, owners describe them as very intelligent. Squirrels can weigh between four to 28 ounces, and their energy is nearly limitless. Because of their high energy level, they require close to three hours of exercise every day. If you want to own a squirrel, you should plan to spend at least three hours per day on its care.
Depending on the type of squirrel you have, the cost will vary greatly. For example, a small infestation involves a single squirrel looking for food. Large infestations, on the other hand, typically involve several squirrels and multiple nesting sites. This is because larger squirrels can fit in baseball-sized openings. Ultimately, the cost of keeping a squirrel depends on your budget and where it is located. Generally, squirrels can be difficult to relocate so you should have plenty of money available for the procedure.
Keeping a squirrel fed and healthy
If you want to keep your pet squirrel happy and healthy, you must feed it a balanced diet. Adult squirrels require a minimum of one pound of food each week, and most of this food can be leftovers from your meals. You can also buy some vegetables from the fresh produce section of the grocery store to feed your squirrel. You can also try offering hard-boiled eggs or chicken to your pet.
If you have a baby squirrel, you may need to provide immediate medical care for it. If it smells like food or you’ve been away from its nest for a while, it might reject your baby. You should also report any incidents of wildlife theft to the Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Coalition immediately. Injured squirrels should also receive medical attention, so you should keep children and pets away from them. Injured grown squirrels can become aggressive.
Keeping a squirrel out of your attic
If you want to keep your pet squirrel from nesting in your attic, you need to know a few things. For one, squirrels live in attics only for a few months. Baby squirrels will grow up to leave the den at around 4 months of age, but you can wait until they are old enough to be on their own. You can use a pole to inspect the attic and remove any food scraps to prevent the nesting process.
Another thing you can do is apply repellent to the area. You can either use liquid or granular repellents and spray around the perimeter of your yard. Plant daffodils or other plants that will discourage squirrels from entering your attic. If you want to deter squirrels even more, you can use granular repellents on the ground. You can also hang a pair of binoculars from your lawn to observe their activity. Lastly, make sure there are no loose branches hanging over the roof. Squirrels can be scavengers and chew through wires and household items. Here are some tips to help you keep your pet squirrel out of your attic.
How much does a pet squirrel cost in Texas?
Prices for pet squirrels in Texas start at around $200.
Where can I buy a pet squirrel in Texas?
There are a number of places that sell pet squirrels in Texas including online retailers pet stores and breeders.
Do I need a permit to own a pet squirrel in Texas?
No you do not need a permit to own a pet squirrel in Texas.
What do I need to do to care for a pet squirrel in Texas?
When caring for a pet squirrel you will need to provide a cage or enclosure bedding food and water dishes and toys.
What kinds of food do pet squirrels eat in Texas?
Pet squirrels in Texas eat a variety of foods including nuts seeds fruits and vegetables.
How often do I need to feed my pet squirrel in Texas?
You will need to feed your pet squirrel once or twice a day.
How much water does a pet squirrel need to drink in Texas?
A pet squirrel needs to drink about an ounce of water per day.
What kind of cage or enclosure does a pet squirrel need in Texas?
A pet squirrel needs a cage or enclosure that is at least 4 square feet.
How often does a pet squirrel need to be exercised in Texas?
A pet squirrel needs to be exercised for at least 1 hour per day.
What kinds of toys do pet squirrels like to play with in Texas?
Pet squirrels in Texas like to play with a variety of toys including balls ropes and chew toys.
Do pet squirrels like to be petted in Texas?
Some pet squirrels in Texas like to be petted while others do not.
How do I know if my pet squirrel is happy in Texas?
A happy pet squirrel is active has a good appetite and is playful.
What are some signs that my pet squirrel is not happy in Texas?
Some signs that a pet squirrel is not happy include a loss of appetite lethargy and depression.
What should I do if my pet squirrel is not happy in Texas?
If your pet squirrel is not happy you should take it to a veterinarian to have it checked out.
What is the life expectancy of a pet squirrel in Texas?
The life expectancy of a pet squirrel in Texas is 5 to 10 years.
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.
