Protein dilemma

[Kyra]

I would just like to consult with you because the Henry's blocks for baby squirrels are high in protein but fox valley formula is "low" on protein (the 20/50 for squirrels older than 4 weeks old has less protein than the FV formula for babies younger than 4 weeks old) so I wonder about a baby squirrels protein requirement now.

[Nancy in New York]

I would just like to consult with you because the Henry's blocks for baby squirrels are high in protein but fox valley formula is "low" on protein (the 20/50 for squirrels older than 4 weeks old has less protein than the FV formula for babies younger than 4 weeks old) so I wonder about a baby squirrels protein requirement now.

The Fox Valley 32/40 for younger squirrels(which we don't recommend)
is higher in protein then the 20/50 (for older squirrels)
The younger squirrels require more protein.
When they get older, they require more fat than protein.

[Kyra]

I understand that part, but then why the Henry's blocks are high in protein for squirrel until 5 months old.

[Mel1959]

That might be a good question to ask Leigh at Henrys Pets. I don't know that protein is harmful as they get older. I have a dwarf squirrel that is 18 mths old and still gets some formula as well as chicken babyfood every day.

[niapet]

I have a hard time imagining protein could be harmful to a mammal unless they have a kidney problem, or are consuming MASSIVE amounts of protein; or if the the particular species in question has a sensitivity to a particular amino acid. Squirrels are omnivores so they are likely to tolerate all the amino acids, but there is preciously little literature on squirrel physiology available, I cant be sure on this. I personally would not be concerned about too much protein, the squirrels body will use what it needs and excrete the excess if it is functioning properly.

On the point about Henry blocks being high in protein until 5 months? Probably because the squirrel is still growing, and since all life is made out of proteins, they would likely need more while actively growing. That would be my guess. Also, any deficiencies in a particular amino acid would have more detrimental, and likely irreversible, effects during developmental years (or months as the case may be).