Sugar Gliders: A QUICK FACT SHEET

BY:  JILL M. PATT, DVM

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT:

Australia – woods/forests, Nocturnal

LIFESPAN:

12+ years

SEXING:

Females have a mid-abdominal pouch

Males has a pre-penile scrotum           

HOUSING:

Gliders are social animals and should never be kept alone. A large cage is needed to allow these athletic animals to explore.  Bird cages are frequently utilized. 

Larger is better, but ensure that the screen is small enough to safely keep your glider in the cage.

A sleeping pouch and hide box are needed as are a variety of perches for climbing. 

Parrot toys can be provided for additional stimulation as can a rodent wheel.

DIET:

Diet is extremely important for sugar gliders and an improper diet can literally kill your glider.

I recommend one of the 2 options below for providing the best nutrition for your pet.

As with any exotic pet, it is important that you research and understand the needs of your pet both in the wild and in captivity.

OPTION 1:

50% Protein

insects, hardboiled egg with shell, newborn mice, lean meat, high quality cat food,  monkey chow

50% Sugars/gums

fresh nectar, maple syrup, honey, acacia gum, gum Arabic, commercial lory diet, Glideraide

OPTION 2: 

50% Leadbeaters Mix

150 ml warm water
150 ml honey
1 shelled hard boiled egg
25 grams high protein baby cereal
1 teaspoon vitamin supplement

50% Commercial Insectivore diet
Mazuri^® Insectivore Diet
Zupreem Omnivore Diet           

TREATS:

Small amounts of fresh fruits, vegetables, baby food, and dairy products can be offered.

SUPPLEMENTS:  A combination of a vitamin and mineral supplement such as Rep-Cal Herptivite should be sprinkled over food.  The calcium supplement should be phosphorus free.

WATER: Clean/fresh water should be available at all times. A water bottle is typically provided.

MEDICAL CONCERNS: Hind limb paralysis syndrome, Nutritional disorders, Obesity, Cataracts. Trauma, Respiratory disease, Parasites, Gastrointestinal disease, Stress-related disease, Pouch disorders, Dental disease

FURTHER INFORMATION:

Sugar Glider Net:  http://sugarglider.net/

Mazuri Insectivore Diet:  http://www.mazuri.com/

Gliderade:  http://www.exoticnutrition.com/Glider-Supplements.htm

Provided by: Little Critters Veterinary Hospital