These tiny marsupials are becoming popular with pet owners around the world. People love their cute features and their lively attitude. Here’s a detailed guide to living with sugar gliders so you can be an excellent pet owner!
Sugar Gliders As Pets
There’s a debate on whether these small mammals should be kept as pets. Some people think that since sugar gliders are social animals, they are better off being left in their natural habitat.
However, you can own a sugar glider if you can give them a spacious enclosure and pleasant surroundings. Several people keep gliders as pets, and they form a unique bond with these marsupials.
Remember that before you adopt or purchase a glider, you must ensure that you provide them with excellent living conditions. Do extensive research before you bring home your joeys.
Here are the essential things you must prepare for your glider:
- A spacious cage/enclosure
- A balanced diet
- Non-scented substrate
- A “bonding plan” for you, your gliders, and other pets
Ideal Living Space
Adult sugar gliders need a spacious enclosure. You need a space at least 36 inches high, and make sure the wiring should be no more than a half-inch wide.
Make the wire horizontal so your gliders can climb up the sides.
Keeping these critters entertained is another essential tip for living with sugar gliders. Install toys like ladders, ropes, branches for them to play with.
Keep their enclosure away from direct sunlight, but make sure they can tell if it’s day or night. Also, keep them away from drafts so they don’t catch a chill.
Sugar Glider Diet And Health
You must also supply them with the right food to prevent health problems. Here’s what you need for a balanced sugar glider diet:
- Proteins – hard-boiled eggs, cooked poultry
- Fruits and vegetables
- Live insects (as treats)
Can Gliders Bond With Humans?
Sugar gliders are social animals, so they will bond with their human owners after time. It’s one reason people love living with sugar gliders — they are playful and loving.
It may take a while for your glider to develop a bond with you and your family, and that’s why it’s better to start the bonding process when they are young joeys.
Try to dedicate time to your glider. Actively bonding with these marsupials will make them trust you.
Can Gliders Bond With Other Pets?
Bonding with other animals may be the biggest challenge you’ll have while living with sugar gliders. It’s natural to worry that your cat or dog might harm your new pets.
However, if you introduce the glider slowly to your other pets, they may develop a close bond with them. Sugar gliders are marsupials, not rodents, so dogs and cats don’t recognize them as food.
Your other pets may just be curious about how the glider moves around. That’s why you need to oversee the interaction of your glider with other pets.
Keep in mind that you must be careful with reptiles and gliders. This bond may be difficult to achieve, and it’s better to separate them.
Conclusion
Now you know how to raise a healthy and happy sugar glider! Make sure to remember all their needs so you can develop a deeper bond with these tiny marsupials.