Can Squirrels Eat Cashews And Almonds

Squirrels can eat cashews and almonds, and both nuts are safe for them in small, properly prepared amounts.
 
If you’ve ever been asked “can squirrels eat cashews and almonds?” while watching one raid your bird feeder, the short answer is yes.
 
Cashews and almonds aren’t toxic to squirrels, so a few plain nuts here and there won’t harm them.
 
That said, “can eat” doesn’t mean “should eat freely,” and there are a few important things to know before you start tossing nuts to the squirrels in your yard.
 
In this post, we’ll look at why squirrels can eat cashews and almonds, how to serve them safely, and the mistakes to avoid.
 
Let’s get into it.

Why Squirrels Can Eat Cashews and Almonds

Squirrels can eat cashews and almonds for several good reasons:

1. Nuts Are a Natural Part of a Squirrel’s Diet

In the wild, tree squirrels rely heavily on nuts, seeds, and acorns to fuel their busy lives.
 
Almonds and cashews fit right into that natural eating pattern, so it’s no surprise squirrels can eat cashews and almonds without any trouble.
 
Their bodies are built to break down the fats and proteins in nuts, which makes these treats easy for them to digest.

2. They Pack Healthy Fats and Protein

Both cashews and almonds are rich in healthy fats, plant-based protein, and fiber.
 
That combination gives squirrels a solid energy boost for climbing, foraging, and staying warm through cold months.
 
Almonds, in particular, are loaded with vitamin E and magnesium, and those nutrients support a squirrel’s overall health when eaten in moderation.

3. The Texture Works Great for Their Teeth

Squirrels have ever-growing incisors that need constant wear.
 
The crunch of an almond or cashew helps keep those teeth trimmed naturally.
 
So when squirrels eat cashews and almonds, they’re also giving their teeth a healthy little workout.

How to Feed Cashews and Almonds to Squirrels Safely

Now that you know squirrels can eat cashews and almonds, here’s how to serve them the right way:

1. Always Go Unsalted and Unroasted

Plain, raw nuts are the safest choice for squirrels.
 
Salted or roasted cashews and almonds often carry extra sodium and oils that aren’t good for small animals.
 
Stick with unsalted, unseasoned nuts so your backyard visitors get the treat without the added junk.

2. Keep Portions Small

Even though squirrels can eat cashews and almonds, these nuts are calorie-dense.
 
A couple of nuts per squirrel per day is plenty, especially if they’re also eating natural foods around your yard.
 
Overfeeding can lead to weight gain and teach squirrels to depend on handouts instead of foraging.

3. Skip the Flavored or Coated Nuts

Honey-roasted, smoked, or candy-coated nuts are a no-go.
 
Seasonings, sugar, and artificial flavorings can upset a squirrel’s stomach.
 
If you want to give squirrels cashews and almonds, keep it simple with plain, raw nuts only.

4. Watch Out for Stale Nuts

Old nuts can grow mold, and moldy food is dangerous for squirrels just like it is for us.
 
Check that your cashews and almonds smell fresh and look clean before offering them.
 
When in doubt, toss them out rather than risk making a squirrel sick.

Are Cashews and Almonds Ever Risky for Squirrels?

Squirrels can eat cashews and almonds, but a few situations call for caution:
 
Cashews sold in the shell are processed with heat and oils, so always choose shelled, raw versions instead.
 
Almonds are generally the safer of the two because cashews contain slightly more fat, so moderation matters more with cashews.
 
Also, never feed squirrels nuts that have been near pesticides or treated with chemicals, as those can be harmful.
 
And keep in mind that nuts should be a treat, not a main meal, since squirrels still need a varied diet of seeds, fruits, and natural forage.
 
Small amounts of plain cashews and almonds are perfectly fine, though.

So, Can Squirrels Eat Cashews and Almonds?

Squirrels can eat cashews and almonds, and both nuts are safe for them in small, properly prepared amounts.
 
They’re non-toxic, full of healthy fats and protein, and fit naturally into a squirrel’s diet.
 
Just serve them raw, unsalted, and in moderation, and skip any flavored, roasted, or stale nuts.
 
Hope this post has helped you understand why squirrels can eat cashews and almonds and how to feed these tasty treats safely.