Achieving optimal nutrition for opossums in captivity is a complex and constantly evolving challenge. The diversity of dietary recommendations from various sources, some of which can be detrimental, underscores the difficulty of meeting the specific nutritional needs of these animals. Opossums are particularly sensitive to poor diets, which can lead to illness, mobility issues, and even death.
Introduction
The Virginia opossum, the only marsupial native to North America, has unique dietary needs that must be met to ensure its health and well-being in captivity. Unlike domestic animals, opossums have a slow metabolic rate and a propensity for obesity, making proper diet management crucial.
Understanding the Opossum's Natural Diet
To formulate an appropriate captive diet, it is essential to understand the opossum's natural eating habits. Opossums are omnivores, consuming a wide variety of foods in the wild. Studies analyzing the stomach contents of wild opossums have revealed a diet consisting of:
- Insects
- Rodents
- Birds
- Eggs
- Frogs
- Plants
- Fruits
- Grains
- Carrion
- Snails
- Slugs
- Worms
- Crayfish
- Fish
This diverse diet highlights the importance of variety in a captive opossum's diet.
The Dangers of Inappropriate Diets
Many commonly circulated opossum diets are based on inadequate or harmful ingredients. Diets that rely heavily on canned cat or dog food, chicken, eggs, kitten or dog chow, and excessive amounts of applesauce or baby cereals are not suitable for opossums.
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These diets can lead to various health problems, most notably Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD), also known as nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism. MBD is caused by an imbalance of calcium and phosphorus, which can result in immobility and death if left untreated.
It's crucial to avoid diets that include:
- Excessive amounts of meat or protein products
- High levels of naturally sourced Vitamins A or D
- Supplementation with pure forms of Vitamins A, D, or Calcium without a diagnosed deficiency
Recommended Diet for Captive Opossums
The National Opossum Society (NOS) recommends a diet based on the analysis of wild opossum stomach contents and clinical research. This diet emphasizes variety and balance, with the following key components:
1. Protein Sources
Opossums require a moderate amount of protein, approximately one tablespoon per day. Acceptable protein options include:
- Cooked chicken (meat and hearts)
- Cooked and unseasoned salmon and sardines
- Thawed mice (one adult or two pinkie mice)
- Cooked eggs (without the shell)
- Insects (BSFL)
2. Vegetables
Vegetables should form a significant portion of the opossum's diet. Fresh, raw vegetables are preferable to canned or cooked options. Good choices include:
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- Leafy greens (kale, mustard greens)
- Carrots
- Bell peppers
- Mushrooms
- Celery
- Broccoli
- Peas
- Squash
Vegetables that are red or yellow, which are high in Vitamin A, should be limited to about 15% of the meal.
3. Fruits
Fruits should be offered in moderation due to their natural sugar content. Suitable fruits include:
- Apples
- Berries
- Melons
- Persimmons
- Pears
- Kiwi
- Cranberries (to help prevent UTIs)
Avocados and grapes/raisins should be avoided due to potential toxicity.
4. Kibble
If a kibble is used, Mazuri Omnivore Diet is a recommended option. If you do choose to feed kibbles so reading labels and providing other nutritional sources is important. The ideal food is 27-31% protein, no more than 11% fat, calcium no more than 1.1%, and phosphorus no more than 0.9%.
5. Dairy
Dairy is not a necessary component of an opossum's diet and should generally be avoided unless specifically recommended by a veterinarian. Plain yogurt may be an exception in some cases.
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The Importance of Calcium and Phosphorus Balance
Maintaining the correct calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (Ca:P) is crucial for preventing MBD. The ideal ratio is approximately 1.5:1. A diet low in calcium and high in phosphorus should be avoided.
If bones are not included in the diet when feeding meat, a calcium supplement may be beneficial.
Supplements
Other dietary supplements like Taurine and VitaGlow are also recommended for their overall health.
Peter's Food
Owners may refer to “Peter’s Food”, an adult opossum diet consisting of 1-part cat food plus 1-part blended vegetables and 0.25%-part non-fat yogurt. “Peter’s Food” was developed for the National Opossum Society by Dr.
Feeding Guidelines
Opossums have a slow metabolism and are prone to obesity, so careful monitoring and control of food intake are essential. The amount of food required will vary depending on the size and activity level of the individual opossum.
Additional Considerations
- Variety is key: Offer a wide range of foods to ensure a balanced diet and prevent nutritional deficiencies.
- Avoid junk food: Do not feed opossums human junk food, as it can contribute to obesity and other health problems.
- Consult a veterinarian: Work with a veterinarian experienced in treating opossums to develop a customized diet plan and address any specific health concerns.
- Monitor weight: Regularly monitor the opossum's weight and adjust food intake as needed to maintain a healthy body condition.
Special Considerations for Baby Opossums
When opossums are babies they will be eating Esbilac puppy milk with baby food veggies, small amount of fruit, rotisserie chicken, scrambled eggs, mixed veggies unthawed and softened, hard kibble dog food softened by soaking in warm water, some regular vanilla yogurt, and cottage cheese. Milk still needs to be given until they are solidly eating other foods in order to stay hydrated and meet nutritional requirements.