Everything You Need to Know Before Buying a Flying Squirrel

Flying squirrels are adorable, small rodents that make fascinating pets. They are nocturnal and arboreal, meaning they are active at night and live in trees. Flying squirrels have a unique ability to glide through the air, using a flap of skin between their front and back legs.

First Things First: Is a Flying Squirrel Right for You?

Before you decide to buy a flying squirrel, it's important to do your research and make sure that this type of pet is a good fit for you and your lifestyle. Consider the following factors:

• Activity Level: Flying squirrels are very active and playful animals. They need plenty of space to move around and explore. If you are not prepared to provide them with this, then a flying squirrel may not be the right pet for you.
• Nocturnal Nature: As mentioned earlier, flying squirrels are nocturnal animals. This means that they will be most active at night, when you are trying to sleep. If you are a light sleeper or have other pets that are sensitive to noise, then a flying squirrel may not be the right pet for you.
• Legal Considerations: In some areas, it is illegal to keep flying squirrels as pets. Be sure to check your local laws before purchasing one of these animals.

Where to Buy a Flying Squirrel

If you have decided that a flying squirrel is the right pet for you, the next step is to find a reputable breeder. You can find breeders online, in pet stores, or through local animal rescue organizations.

When choosing a breeder, it is important to ask about the health of the animals, their diet, and their socialization. You should also ask to see the parents of the flying squirrel you are interested in adopting.

How Much Will It Cost?

The cost of a flying squirrel can vary depending on the breeder, the age of the animal, and the location. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 for a flying squirrel.

In addition to the purchase price, you will also need to factor in the cost of food, bedding, toys, and veterinary care. The monthly cost of owning a flying squirrel can range from $50 to $100.

What Do Flying Squirrels Eat?

Flying squirrels are omnivores, which means that they eat both plants and animals. Their diet consists of:

• Fruits and vegetables: Apples, bananas, blueberries, carrots, and leafy greens
• Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, peanuts, and sunflower seeds
• Insects: Crickets, mealworms, and waxworms
• Small rodents: Mice and voles

Housing Your Flying Squirrel

Flying squirrels need a spacious cage that is at least 2 feet wide by 3 feet long by 3 feet tall. The cage should have plenty of ventilation and should be made of a strong material that the flying squirrel cannot chew through.

The cage should also have a variety of perches, toys, and hiding places. Flying squirrels need plenty of opportunities to climb and explore.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common mistakes that people make when caring for flying squirrels. These mistakes can lead to health problems and even death.

• Housing the flying squirrel in a cage that is too small. Flying squirrels need plenty of space to move around and explore. If the cage is too small, the flying squirrel may become stressed and develop health problems.
• Not providing the flying squirrel with a proper diet. Flying squirrels need a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. If the flying squirrel is not getting the proper nutrients, it may develop health problems.
• Not providing the flying squirrel with enough opportunities to climb and explore. Flying squirrels are arboreal animals and need plenty of opportunities to climb and explore. If the flying squirrel does not have enough opportunities to climb and explore, it may become bored and develop health problems.

How to Take Care of a Flying Squirrel: A Step-by-Step Approach

1. Provide a spacious cage. The cage should be at least 2 feet wide by 3 feet long by 3 feet tall. The cage should have plenty of ventilation and should be made of a strong material that the flying squirrel cannot chew through.
2. Provide a variety of perches, toys, and hiding places. Flying squirrels need plenty of opportunities to climb and explore. The cage should have a variety of perches, toys, and hiding places to keep the flying squirrel entertained and active.
3. Feed the flying squirrel a healthy diet. Flying squirrels need a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. You can also feed the flying squirrel insects and small rodents.
4. Clean the cage regularly. The cage should be cleaned regularly to prevent the build-up of bacteria and parasites.
5. Take the flying squirrel to the vet for regular checkups. Flying squirrels should be taken to the vet for regular checkups to ensure that they are healthy.

Pros and Cons of Keeping Flying Squirrels as Pets

Pros:

• Flying squirrels are fascinating and beautiful animals.
• They are very playful and active, which can be a lot of fun to watch.
• Flying squirrels are relatively low-maintenance pets. They do not require a lot of attention or care.

Cons:

• Flying squirrels are nocturnal animals, which means that they will be most active at night, when you are trying to sleep.
• Flying squirrels can be noisy, which can be a problem if you have other pets or if you live in a small space.
• Flying squirrels are known to carry diseases, such as rabies and tularemia. It is important to take precautions to avoid being bitten or scratched by a flying squirrel.

FAQs

1. Are flying squirrels good pets?

Flying squirrels can make good pets for people who are prepared to provide them with the proper care and attention. They are fascinating and beautiful animals that can be a lot of fun to watch.

2. How long do flying squirrels live?

Flying squirrels typically live for 5 to 7 years in captivity.

3. What is the average size of a flying squirrel?

Flying squirrels are typically 8 to 12 inches long and weigh 2 to 4 ounces.

4. Are flying squirrels nocturnal?

Yes, flying squirrels are nocturnal animals. They are most active at night, when they hunt for food and explore their surroundings.

5. What do flying squirrels eat?

Flying squirrels are omnivores, which means that they eat both plants and animals. Their diet consists of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, insects, and small rodents.

6. How often should I clean the flying squirrel cage?

The cage should be cleaned weekly to prevent the build-up of bacteria and parasites.

7. How often should I take the flying squirrel to the vet?

Flying squirrels should be taken to the vet for regular checkups every 6 to 12 months.

8. What are the signs of a healthy flying squirrel?

A healthy flying squirrel will have a bright, clear coat, bright eyes, and a healthy weight. It will also be active and playful.

Table 1: Flying Squirrel Diet

Table 2: Flying Squirrel Housing

Table 3: Flying Squirrel Veterinary Care