Are you looking for a small pet that is super cute, and quite unique? A sugar glider may be a great match for you. These tiny furballs are quite adorable! Below, a Covington, GA vet discusses basic sugar glider care.
Sugar gliders are very friendly, and can get lonely without any buddies to play with and cuddle up to. Therefore, we always recommend getting at least two gliders. It’s best if your pair bonds while they are young, but adult gliders can also make friends. Ask your vet for more information.
Your tiny pets may need time to get used to you. One great way to bond with sugar gliders is to put them in a tent or pouch, and then snuggle or play with them.
When choosing a cage for your gliders, pick one with more height than width. Sugar gliders love to climb! We recommend getting a cage that is at least 3 feet high by 2 feet wide. Be sure that the bars on your pets’ cage are less than a half-inch apart. Choose a cage with mesh or horizontal bars: these will be easier for your pets to climb. Once you have the cage, you’ll need to add suitable accessories, like branches, ladders, and ropes. Your adorable little pals will also need a hide box and some nesting pouches, as well as dishes and water bottles. As for substrate, avoid pine or cedar substrates. Paper-based products are a good option.
Just like any other pet, sugar gliders need proper veterinary care to thrive. If you have a male, your vet may recommend neutering the little guy. You’ll also want to watch for potential signs of illness, such as obesity, constipation, diarrhea, or lethargy. Ask your vet for more information.
Sugar gliders have some very specific nutritional needs. You may need to make your pet’s meals, which may include fruits, veggies, vitamins and/or nutritional powders, and other items. Calcium is also crucial for these adorable little furballs. For snacks, your gliders can have mealworms, dried or fresh fruit, yogurt drops, or applesauce. Water mixed with apple juice is also a good treat. Ask your vet for specific recommendations, including serving sizes, safe and unsafe foods, and feeding procedures.
Do you have questions about sugar gliders? We can help! Contact us, your local Covington, GA animal clinic, today!
