Did you know that sugar gliders can live 15 years? These adorable little animals are definitely melting a lot of hearts. They’re also really cute, don’t need very much room, and are small enough to easily pass weight restrictions from landlords or HOAs. A local Cherry Hill, NJ vet goes over some care tips in this article.
Sugar Gliders Basics
It’s not uncommon for people to think that these adorable little guys are rodents, but they are technically marsupials. These cute little furballs are native to Australia and Indonesia. They have only fairly recently moved into the realm of being pets, and first started becoming popular in the exotic pet niche back in the 90’s.
One thing of note? These guys have a long lifespan. Most smaller animals only live a few years. That long lifespan is one of many things you would want to look at before adopting sugar gliders.
Our Favorite Fun Facts About Sugar Gliders
As far as care needs go, sugar gliders are in some ways similar to a pocket pet, such as a Guinea pig, but are in other ways closer to birds. It’s important to do a lot of research before deciding to adopt one!
Here are some interesting tidbits:
They Really Do Glide: Believe it or not, these guys can glide up to 150 feet, or 45 meters.
It’s All In The Tail: That cute tail will take up about half of a glider’s body length, which is about a foot.
They’re Delicate: Gliders have a thin membrane that stretches from their wrists to their ankles, much like a flying squirrel. This is called a patagium. It allows them to jump and glide through the air. However, it’s also very delicate. For this reason, you should never put a harness on a glider.
They Make Fun Sounds: Sugar glider vocalizations often sound more like a dog barking than anything else.
They’re Nocturnal: Sugar gliders are most active at night. That’s something to keep in mind if you were thinking about getting one for a child. Your tiny furballs may keep your child up at night!
They All Have A Sweet Tooth: Sugar gliders actually get their name (or part of it, anyway) from the fact that they love eating sweet foods. In the wild, their natural diets contain lots of fruits, as well as nectar and honey.
They Need Friends: In the wild, gliders live in fairly large colonies, which may contain as many as 15 gliders. You don’t need to adopt that many, but you should definitely have at least two. A single glider will get lonely and depressed without any buddies!
What Sort Of Cage Does A Glider Need?
We recommend getting a cage that is at least 24″W x 36″H, as a minimum. However, bigger is better. These guys love to climb, so be sure to pick something that is more tall than wide. The bars should be less than a half-inch apart. It’s also best to go with something that has enamel or powder coating. Wire cages can cause injuries. As for bedding, you can use non-treated wood shavings, shredded newspaper, or commercial liners or substrate. Check with your vet on this, as many popular substrates, such as pine and cedar products, are toxic to gliders.
You’ll need accessories, toys, and hides. Some things you can include are hammocks, pouches, swings, ladders, and tents. Your furry friends will also enjoy branches, (large) rings, bells, and bridges. Of course, you’ll need dinnerware as well.
What Foods Do Sugar Gliders Eat?
This is one area where sugar glider care gets a bit tricky. They can have glider food, but you’ll also need to supplement it with things like arugula, bibb lettuce, dill, or radicchio. For treats, you can offer things like applesauce and honey sticks. It’s also important to know what not to feed your pets. That includes anything that is high in calcium and oxalates, such as raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, spinach, carrots, beets, pears, lettuce, figs, and collards. You’ll also need to stay away from the things that are bad for nearly all animals, such as chocolate, garlic, and anything high in fat, salt, or sugar. Ask your vet for specific advice.
How Do You Form A Bond With A Glider?
Like many small animals, gliders are prey in the wild, and can be a bit timid. Once you earn your pet’s trust, you’ll find that your tiny buddy really becomes very attached to you. In fact, one thing that is wonderful about these little guys is the fact that, because they are so social, they often bond with entire families, though they will of course be most attached to whoever cares for them the most. Once they do get attached to someone, they will be extremely sad and distraught if they are separated from them or rehomed. For that reason,we strongly advise against getting gliders unless you’re absolutely sure that you’ll be keeping them for their whole lives. Otherwise, opt for something that doesn’t live as long, such as a hamster or Guinea pig.
That said, it may take you some time to earn their trust. Here are a few things you can do:
Use A Tent: Making a little tent, and petting your little buddies inside it can be a great way to get them used to you.
Offer Treats: That old saying about how the way to a man’s heart is through the stomach? That applies with many pets as well. Giving your cute pets yummy treats is also a good way to help them form a positive association with you.
Wear Pouches: Sugar gliders like to curl up in little hammocks. You can wear a hoodie with a pouch, and let them sleep on it.
Make Your Scent Known: Gliders are very scent-oriented. Putting a worn t-shirt in your pet’s cage can help them get used to your smell.
Make It Fun: If you really want to pamper your little buddies, consider buying or making a special glider apron. This may sound silly, but many gliders love these! You can also make your pets a fun climbing wall.
What Are Some Of The Key Signs Of Sickness In Sugar Gliders?
As with any other animal, you’ll need to find out about common health issues and learn about signs of illness to watch for. Pay close attention to your gliders, and watch for signs that something is wrong.
That list includes the following:
- Constipation
- Eye Problems
- Lack of Appetite
- Abnormal breathing
- Dragging their hind legs
- Hair loss
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Obesity
- Anorexia
- Seizures
- Shaking
- Vomiting
Contact your Cherry Hill, NJ vet right away if you notice any of these issues.
Talk To Your Cherry Hill, NJ Vet
This is just a very basic overview of sugar glider care. There’s lots more to cover! Always do thorough research before adopting a new pet. Also, don’t be afraid to ask your vet for recommendations and advice. We’re always happy to help!
Schedule An Appointment At Our Cherry Hill, NJ Pet Clinic
Do you have questions about sugar glider care? Contact us, your Cherry Hill, NJ pet hospital, today!
