Chocolate is one of the most delicious foods on the planet. Who doesn’t love a bar of dark chocolate or an enormous mousse? But what about our furry friends, can squirrels eat chocolate?
Squirrels should not eat chocolate. Its nutritional benefits are not important for squirrels’ health. The theobromine (a chemical compound found in most chocolate) content is toxic to squirrels if consumed, causing theobromine poisoning. It is best not to feed chocolates to your squirrel as this can be fatal if too much is consumed.
Continue reading to find out more about why Chocolate is not the best food for squirrels and what to give them instead.
Can Squirrels Eat Chocolate?
Feeding chocolate to squirrels is okay in small amounts. Chocolate provides squirrels with a lot of energy to go about their busy day, and it might seem like a great idea for your pet squirrels.
So can squirrels eat chocolate? It depends whether or not you are feeding them the raw cacao or cocoa beans.
It is important to remember that numerous studies have shown that chocolate is potentially dangerous for squirrels if eaten in large quantities. Squirrels are known to be sensitive to theobromine, a substance found in chocolate.
The level of toxicity varies according to the type of chocolate and the quantity consumed.
It’s important to know that chocolate isn’t good for squirrels. It contains theobromine, a toxin that can harm them. The most likely symptoms they’ll experience are trembling, diarrhea, excitement, hyperactivity, seizures, muscle tremors, abnormal heart rhythms, and even death.
So it’s best not to give them any chocolate at all. However, nuts and sunflower seeds are great alternatives.
Health Benefits of Eating Chocolate?
Dark chocolate is beneficial to the heart when consumed in moderation. It prevents the formation of blood clots and improves the flexibility of blood vessels by reducing oxidation.
Research has shown that chocolate can increase energy levels, and the chocolate’s ability to improve blood flow makes it a better energy booster.
Dark chocolate is packed with several organic compounds that are biologically active and act as antioxidants. These include catechins, polyphenols, flavanols, etc.
Can Squirrels Eat Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Because squirrels are often fed cake, cookies, popcorn, and other sugary foods by humans, they don’t realize that these are not an ordinary part of their diet.
If you see a squirrel climbing a tree or running on the ground carrying a chocolate chip cookie, it is likely that they found the cookie by accident or a human might have given it to them. Squirrels are opportunistic feeders that will eat anything they can get their paws on.
Can Squirrels Die From Consuming Chocolates?
Sure, it can happen, chocolates won’t kill squirrels on the spot, but you don’t want to give them food that can cause them harm. Furthermore, if you have squirrels in your backyard, you should feed them with foods that are healthy for them which we will list below.
Food = health. So if the food is bad, the one who eats it will be as well. If you want a healthy squirrel, avoid feeding chocolates to your squirrel.
What Should Squirrels Eat?
Squirrels are one of the most common animals in the world and can adapt to most conditions. They can even survive for years without food or water in order to save energy when winter comes, meaning that they are very adaptable and can live a long time.
But what exactly do squirrels eat? Here’s a shortlist of the main foods that you’ll find in their diet.
Squirrels eat a variety of foods. You need to eliminate foods that their body can not process properly. They should eat more vegetables, nuts and seeds, and starchy grains. Their diet can include apples, pears, and other fruits as well.
Fruits – are more nutritious than leaves and will help give squirrels energy. Some of the best fruits to offer are kiwi fruit, bananas, strawberries, grapes, peaches, and just about any other type of fruit.
Nuts – Some of the best types to feed are hazelnuts, almonds, pecans, and walnuts.
Vegetables – Broccoli, zucchini, carrot, and other high-calcium vegetables are excellent for squirrels. Avoid feeding them garlic, corn, yam, and dried veggies.
You should make sure that your squirrels always have enough water, but you have to remember that they can get by without it as long as they’re hibernating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chocolate Kill Squirrels? Although chocolate is not usually fatal to squirrels if not a lot is consumed, it can kill them if given in large quantities.
Is Chocolate Good for Squirrels? No, but they will still eat it. Squirrels are opportunistic feeders that will eat anything they can find. Squirrels thrive best when their diet consists of nuts, grain, seeds, and fruit.
What Animals Can Eat Chocolate? Chocolate is made from the cocoa ingredient, and it’s extremely harmful to animals.
Final Thoughts
Can squirrels eat chocolate?
The simple answer is no, they should not eat a lot of chocolate. If you have ever heard jokes about giving squirrels chocolate bars, I would advise against it.