Sugar gliders are adorable, petite marsupials with big eyes and long, fluffy tails. They are curious, playful, and graceful. Have you ever wondered if sugar gliders are good pets? Let’s find out!
Exotic Charm
Dogs, cats, birds, and fish are common pets people talk about owning. Sugar gliders are a unique idea for those looking to branch out. In the wild, these miniature marsupials call Australia and Indonesia home. Before purchasing or adopting them, read up on sugar gliders to decide if they fit your lifestyle!
Are you a night owl? So are sugar gliders! They are typically nocturnal animals, but you can still spend time with them during the day. Their tiny size makes sugar gliders a breeze to fit in a loose shirt pocket, a pouch-like sling, or other creative nests you want to try. As a bonus, being kept close to you will help your pets create better bonds!
Responsible Pet Ownership
Sugar gliders have a relatively long lifespan compared to pets like betta fish, hamsters, or chameleons. There might be better choices than these cuties for first-time animal caregivers. If your child is ready for a pet and their heart is set on sugar gliders, all is not lost. With your guidance, these marsupials can thrive in your household.
Laws regarding exotic pet ownership vary from state to state. The same is true for international animal regulations. If you travel frequently, examine how creatures considered wildlife in different regions might affect your plans.
What’s for Dinner?
Unlike ordinary household pet food, big box chain stores don’t sell kibble for sugar gliders. Some prepared nutritional supplements exist, but you are their primary chef. A trusted veterinarian specializing in exotic pets can help you make the best choices for your beloved furry friend.
In the wild, sugar gliders are opportunistic omnivores. Why search for food when it comes to you? Well, for the most part, these animals don’t put in the extra work. Insectsand small birds are attracted to the same nectar, sap, and gum responsible for the “sugar” part of these gliders’ names. They hang out in the trees, ready to grab a quick meal on the go.
Their diet is balanced out with things hikers might take to keep energy up on the trails. No, sugar gliders don’t carry granola bars around with them. They consume fruits and seeds! Bird eggs, pollen, lizards, and fungi create the rest of these exotic animals’ favorite delicacies in nature.
Two of a Kind
Have you ever heard the expression “the more the merrier”? It suits these marsupials’ sunny disposition well. In fact, reputable breeders insist that their sugar gliders are brought home in pairs. Without at least one buddy to hang out with, they quickly fall into depression. Sugar gliders are happiest in a group setting.
These animals love spending time with their family and friends in the wild. On average, between five and 12 animals create a local community. While it’s unlikely that their neighbors will file complaints over the noise, a thriving colony of sugar gliders is filled with various sounds. They communicate with each other by barking, chattering, hissing, and chirping.
Gliding Through Life
Many people avoid cramped spaces. When considering whether sugar gliders are good pets for you, look at how much room is available for them. Like humans, these creatures require plenty of open space. To have happy, healthy sugar gliders, give them a safe habitat big enough to explore, climb, run, jump, and glide freely.
Picture squirrels leaping from tree branch to tree branch. They cover surprising distances sometimes, don’t they? Now, imagine this! The Leaning Tower of Pisa measures 183 feet and three inches. Sugar gliders are capable of gliding almost that same distance! You don’t need to own an enclosure that size, of course. Hopefully, this helps you visualize what this tiny but mighty marsupial can do.
Healthy Habits
Unlike dogs and some other pets, sugar gliders do not need baths. Similar to cats, these animals have personal hygiene routines! If they stop caring for themselves, watch out for an underlying illness.
Their big eyes implore you to feed them one more treat. Be careful, though. Sugar gliders’ preference for sweet foods can lead to health concerns if their diet is unbalanced. Another common reason for sickness is an unsanitary environment. Washing food and water bowls daily and maintaining clean bedding will help keep your fur babies safer.
Cute and Cuddly Conclusion
You might wonder where to find sugar gliders and how much they cost. You can purchase them from breeders or adopt them from rescues. Sometimes, they are available through stores specializing in exotic animals. Breeders charge more for younger animals with unique coat colors and pleasant personalities. The price ranges anywhere from around $100 to over $1,000.
So, are sugar gliders good pets? The answer is entirely up to you! Thank you for reading about these cuddly creatures.
