Is a Sugar Glider the Pet for You?

Sugar gliders are naturally social animals and need to have a lot of contact with their owner in order to be socially fulfilled. Sugar gliders are nocturnal (awake at night), so it is better to have at least 2 sugar gliders so that they can keep each other company at night while you are asleep and they are awake. Although they are nocturnal, there is still plenty of time to spend with your glider during the day. Because they are marsupials, they like to be snuggled up in a pouch during the daytime while they sleep. It is very simple to carry your glider with you almost anywhere you go. Sugar gliders have very special dietary needs that you need to be willing to take the time to meet each and every night for the life of your companion. It can take an average of 20 minutes per night to prepare their dinner.

Too many people get a pet on impulse.  Before you buy a Sugar Glider, carefully consider these facts:

• A Sugar glider may live up to 15 years in captivity.

• Sugar gliders need a reasonably large cage.(no smaller than 36x18x18)

• Gliders need clean cages and fresh fruit daily.

• Sugar gliders are social animals and need two to have company or have a human to play with daily.

• Sugar gliders need supervision if you have a small child.

• Sugar gliders need care if you are out of town.

• Not all vets treat Sugar gliders so check with your local vet.

• Sugar gliders may or may not be compatible with other pets, such as a cat, and need a safe house.

• Some people are allergic to animal fur.

• Some landlords do not allow pets.

• A Sugar glider is a family pet, so make sure the whole family wants one.

If you do decide to get a Sugar glider, it is best to pick one that has been recently weaned so it will bond with you easily.  However, don't choose one that is so young that it is not eating well on its own.  When selecting your pet, look for the following:

• Bright, clear eyes that are free of cataract, white spots, or discharge.

• Good weight, not bony or thin.

• Fur that is soft, thick, and clean.

• An active and alert attitude.

• A friendly and curious nature

What Things Should You Consider Before Buying A Sugar?

• Can you take responsibility for it for that long?

• Can you provide a reasonably large cage? The cage should be no smaller than 36x18x18.

• Do you have time to keep the cage clean?

• Do you have time to clean and cut fresh fruits and veggies for your Sugar Glider every day?

• Since Sugars are very social animals, do you have enough time to play with it consistently?

• Do you have enough money to buy two Gliders to keep each other company?

• If children are caring for it, do you have the time to supervise and help in handling and caring for it?

• Do you have someone to care for your pet if you are gone for more than 24 hours or can you take your Sugar with you on trips?

• Is there a veterinarian in your area that cares for exotic pets?

• Do you have the money if it needs medical attention?

• Are there other pets in your house that will not adapt to living with a Sugar Glider?

Sugar Gliders and Other Pets

In the wild, the Sugar glider's main predators are birds of prey.  They should not be housed in the same room as screechy birds, such as cockatoos and parrots.

Use discretion when it comes to dogs and cats.  If your dog or cat could care less about the Sugar glider in a cage, then there should be few problems.  If however your dog or cat spends a lot of time hungrily staring at the cage, watch your pets carefully and put the Sugar glider out of their reach.

Sugar Gliders and Children

Sugar Gliders are not a suitable pet for children under age 12.  Most young children don't have the patience, gentleness, and sense of responsibility to adequately look after gliders.  If you decide to buy a Sugar glider for a child, keep in mind that you will have to supervise the handling and the care.