Guest Author - Denise Lacazette

The Sugar Glider is a small marsupial possum (not opossum – the sugar glider hails from Down Under) that can live up to 15 years as an exotic pet companion. The sugar glider is not related to the flying squirrel – although it is able to glide using its patagium. While its tail resembles that of the opossum, the sugar glider tail is not prehensile; it functions more as a directional guide during gliding.

Sugar Gliders are nocturnal, social animals. If you are considering buying a sugar glider, you should consider buying two (or more). The sex of the gliders does not matter, they do well in same sex and mixed sex groups. If you choose not to breed and find yourself with a different sex pair it is possible to have your male sugar glider neutered.

Sugar Glider basics:

Housing – minimum 20x20x30 (tall is better than wide) for 1-2 gliders. Room temperature can range from 65-75 degrees. Sugar Gliders usually nest in tree hollows so anything that simulates that environment will please them for a nest box. Many sturdy bird toys will please as will tunneling & hiding objects. Tree branches (fruitwoods) are a must for this tree dweller. Place the cage high, but avoid placing on appliances. Also avoid high daytime traffic areas that will disturb their slumber.

Feeding – fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein (24%). Tofu is an excellent source of protein and the least likely to inhibit calcium absorption (compared to cooked red meat, poultry and eggs). Feeding a couple of live crickets or meal worms every evening is also recommended (entertaining as well as healthy for them). Seeds and nuts should only be served as an occasional treat – not part of the regular diet. Probiotics are recommended as a regular addition to their food. Dry cat food is not an adequate diet.

Care – daily cage cleaning and regular nail trimming. Sugar Gliders groom themselves – bathing is not necessary & not recommended. Sugar Gliders are susceptible to internal and external parasites. Regular vet visits and cleanliness are the keys to keeping parasites in check. Avoid bright lights and midday sunlight – a Sugar Glider’s eyes are very sensitive to light.

Sexing – females have a pouch opening on their abdomen, males have a bald diamond spot on their head and furred scrotum low on their abdomen. (Sugar Glider breeding is licensed [US only] by the USDA if you own more than four breeding females.)

Cautions – always monitor children and predatory animals (cats/dogs). Calcium deficiencies are common. Sugar Gliders are lactose intolerant.

Sugar Gliders can be wonderful, owner-bonded pets. Always do your homework before purchasing this or any other pet and remember – never release any pet into the wild (that includes your neighborhood). Releasing an animal into the wild is usually a death sentence and if they do happen to survive they can do great harm to the local ecosystem.