Food for babies

[Joshua Breedlove]

I am fostering three baby red squirrels and was wondering if anyone can tell me if its ok to give them coconuts? I want to know if it is safe for them to eat the fruit and drink the juice. I figured the shell of the nut itself would be good material for them to chew on. Please if anyone has any isnights let me know.

[Milo's Mom]

I am fostering three baby red squirrels and was wondering if anyone can tell me if its ok to give them coconuts? I want to know if it is safe for them to eat the fruit and drink the juice. I figured the shell of the nut itself would be good material for them to chew on. Please if anyone has any isnights let me know.

You said "baby" red squirrels. How old are they? Are they still on formula?
You said "fostering"...does this mean babysitting for someone else? Does this mean raising them yourself in preparation for release?

If they are still "baby's", they should still be on formula.

If they have been weaned and are eating a "solid" diet (please see our nutrition forum for examples of a healthy diet) then small amounts of coconut can be given but only in SMALL amounts and NOT frequently. Too much coconut causes mushy poops and upset bellies. I personally would NOT give the coconut juice. After I WASH w/SOAP and VERY hot water I do offer the shells for them to chew on.

Hopefully some of our experts will be on shortly to weigh in and offer their opinions/advice.

Got pics of your babies? WE LOVE PICS!!!

Oh, and BTW :Welcome to TSB!!

[Joshua Breedlove]

Thank you for that info. Im a little tired right now so I cant think of how old they are but they are scheduled for release middle to end of next month. They are my fosters, so Im not babysitting. Ive got them eating solid food really well. Theyve been slow to accept water from the water bottle and I was starting to get worried about that aspect of weening them. I currently have them down to two formula feedings a day and am slowly weakening the strength of the formula as I go. But I did notice that yesterday they did start drinking the water from the water bottle, at least a little bit anyways. They are an adorale handfull and Part of me wishes I didnt have to release them, but I know its best for them. Thanks for welcoming me the the forum, and for getting back to me so fast.

[Joshua Breedlove]

As I figure out the site I will try to get some pics posted for everyone!

[redwuff]

We all love pictures:jump especially of baby reds.

What type of formula have they been on and how old are they. It always helps to release the babies when they are in good shape.