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Do Squirrels Eat Cat Food?

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When you leave cat food outside, you might notice it attracts more than just your feline friends. Curious about whether squirrels are to blame for the disappearing kibble? It turns out these bushy-tailed critters are not very picky eaters and will indeed munch on cat food if they come across it. Squirrels are opportunistic feeders and are known to eat a wide variety of foods, and cat food, with its rich protein and fat content, can be an appealing option for them, especially in urban areas where their natural food sources might be more limited.

background image of cat food with silhouettes of cat and squirrel over the image with words "do squirrels eat cat food" at top of image

If you’re a cat owner or someone who enjoys backyard wildlife, understanding the dietary habits of squirrels can help you in managing your outdoor feeding practices. Feeding animals unintentionally can lead to various problems, such as over-dependence on human-provided food or unwanted animals frequenting your space. To ensure harmony in your backyard, it’s important to take into account the diet of all animals involved.

Squirrels And Cat Food

Squirrels are opportunistic feeders that often seek out easy meals, which may include cat food if it’s accessible. They will eat cat food that has been left out for cats or as a treat for birds.

Dietary Habits Of Squirrels

Squirrels are primarily herbivores but will eat a wide range of foods. Their natural diet consists of:

  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Fruits
  • Insects

Squirrels may be attracted to cat food because it’s:

  • High in calories: providing them with a quick energy source.
  • Easily accessible: if left outside for pets.

Health Concerns

Feeding squirrels cat food can lead to:

  • Nutritional imbalances: It lacks the essential variety squirrels need.
  • Dependency: They may become reliant on unnatural food sources.

How to Keep Cat Food Away from Squirrels

To safeguard your cat’s food and keep squirrels at bay, consider the following effective strategies.

  • Secure Storage: Store cat food in airtight containers inside your home or a closed shed. This keeps the scent from attracting squirrels. We made the mistake of storing food in a wooden box on our porch one time but the squirrels chewed their way in!
  • Feed Pets Indoors: When possible, feed your cats inside to avoid drawing in curious squirrels.
  • Feed Feral Cats Close to the Colony: If you feed feral cats, be sure to put the food close to the cats themselves. The presence of the cats will help deter the squirrels.
  • Timely Feeding: Only put out enough food for your cat’s immediate meal. Remove any leftovers promptly.
  • Clean Area: After feeding, clean the area to remove any food residue that might attract squirrels (and mice!)

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