A Basic Overview on those Sweet Pets Known as Sugar Gliders

Have you ever heard of the pet called the sugar glider? If not, you may be interested to know what it is and why it is so called that, and a few other fun and not-so-fun facts about these critters.

Did you know that the sugar glider only weighs about as much as a stick of butter and is only about six inches long? They are native to Australia and Guinea and like to eat sugary items. These graceful creatures can glide though the air like a flying squirrel, thus the name “sugar glider”. In fact, they can glide into the air about 150 feet.

Some of the reasons that pet owners choose to invest in a sugar glider are because they are cute, exotic, and playful. One word of caution, however, is that they are not pets recommended for children, or at least not for small children. If you are considering the purchase of one you will want to keep that in mind. Also keep in mind that they are legal in some states, such as in Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Maine. However, they are banned in others.

The reason why sugar gliders are not made nationally available is because the affect this non-native (to America) animal could have if realized into the wild is largely unknown. Nevertheless, sugar gliders have become very popular pets, particularly on household campuses. They live up to about 15 years, which is about the same length of time that a dog lives.

One of the sounds that a sugar glider makes is that which is similar to an angry squirrel. Furthermore, they are very social creatures and prefer to mingle in groups. Therefore, you may want to consider purchasing more than one. They do not do well in a small case and being alone all day. Therefore, you need to make time for this animal and provide for it the proper home environment.

Another fact about the sugar glider is that this pet is very difficult to house train. That means that you may find droppings and urine deposited in very unusual places. You also need to beware that sugar gliders do NOT know how to swim! You will need to be careful that it does not fall into the toilet, tub, or other nearby vessel of water-inside or outside (Usually these pets are kept inside.).

Those who own sugar gliders need to watch them carefully. Not only is that, but also taking care of them quite a bit of work. In fact, they sometimes get into more trouble than a two-year-old child. However, for those who are true animal lovers caring for one of these creatures can be very rewarding. It’s all about dedication, and the fascination of a creature that is very different from you.

One item on the long “to-do” list that comes with caring for your sugar glider pet includes feeding it properly. Contrary to the name, they cannot live on sugar alone. In fact, they eat a variety of different plant and animal foods; therefore, they are considered omnivores. Their total diet consists of percentages of various nutrients.

One main part of the sugar glider’s diet consists of vegetables, which makes up about 30 percent of this pet’s overall food intake. This number is approximate, and you need to be aware that varying opinions exist in how much vegetable intake is necessary. If you want to learn more about this exotic critter’s eating habits you can ask small animal experts. For now, though, this is your best information regarding these pets.

The remainder of a sugar gliders diet, besides vegetable, includes about 25 to 50 percent meat and 15 percent breads and cereals. Overall the food that is fed to these animals should contain as low of fat as possible, with as little amount of sugar as possible. Of course, cutting these animals off from sweats will be a challenge since they naturally have a taste for it. However they will feel full and satisfied if you give them a proper diet. You can read more information about the exact diet that a sugar glider requires if you read more articles and search for more information online.

One more option for feeding your pet is to attach a large bird see cup to the side of its cage. If possible, this food dish should be ceramic or stainless steel. You can also attach a small water bottle to the cage to provide drinking water. Note that the water needs to be changed as often as possible. Not only that, but you need to add a small nest box or pouch on which your glider can sleep, along with some non-toxic climbing branches, some toys, and an exercise wheel.

All the gear that will house your critter needs to be specially designed for sugar gliders, because they are animals that are very different from other creatures. For example, these animals require more space than do gerbils or hamsters. Therefore, it is recommended that you make sure their cage is no less than three feet tall.

These are only some of the information and education that may interest you about your new pet. You can learn more detailed information about how to feed them and care for them by reading more articles similar to this one or by searching for additional resources by way of using the Internet or your local library.

Our Top Suppliers

Free Shipping on $50 or more at PETCO.com!

Related Articles

Mating Sugar Gliders
Anything and Everything You Wanted to Know about the Sugar Glider’s Sex Life

Food and Care Tips for Sugar Gliders
Food Facts and Care Tips for Sugar Gliders

Related Sites

Ruth's Sugar Glider Page
Basic information on sugar gliders as pets, including diet, legal issues, breeder database and interactive link list.

GliderCentral
Directory of sugar glider information including links, a message board, glider-only search engine, breeder and vet databases, and supplies.