Do you have a sugar glider or are you thinking of getting one soon? Sugar gliders make excellent pets for most adults. We get along pretty well with owners who have done proper research on housing and nutrition for these unique pets, or who have had pets before.
When setting up your sugar glider enclosure, it’s important to pay special attention to your sugar glider’s specific needs. You will need a few items to make it safer and more comfortable in the cage. The article below will walk you through the basics of creating the perfect environment for your new pet.
What you need for a sugar glider cage
food and water utensils
Sugar gliders need fresh food and water daily, so be sure to add both servings. One option is a clip-on food and water bowl found in the bird section of pet stores. Sugar gliders prefer to eat and drink high above the ground, so hang food and water bowls high for comfort. Small ceramic dishes can also be used as they can be put in the dishwasher for cleaning purposes.
It is possible to train a sugar glider to drink from a water bottle. However, these bottles are dangerous for small animals. This is because the animal’s tongue can get caught in the roller ball part of the bottle spout. Spouts can also be a source of bacterial contamination if not properly cleaned. A plate is a better solution for sugar gliders.
birdhouse
Sugar gliders need nest boxes or soft pouches to hide in for safety. It is best for him to add one for each sugar glider he owns. Even if you choose to share hives with each other, you will enjoy having separate spaces from time to time.
A hive can be made from any material. If you choose a wooden or wicker box, it may get gnawed over time, but it will still last for a while. Pouches can be purchased at most pet stores, pet fairs, or online. Pouches are generally made of fleece fabric to prevent nails from getting caught.
bedding
Bedding comes in many forms. Most types of suitable bedding can be found in the small animal section of pet stores. You can also order online. The most common bedding used for sugar gliders is a small cube or rectangular recycled paper bedding. By spreading and fluffing the fibers, you can create a softer, more absorbent surface.
You can also use cat litter made from recycled wood chips or newspaper.However, be sure don’t use Pine and cedar shavings and caked cat litter are extremely dangerous to sugar gliders.
climbing surface
These animals love to climb and jump, so a place to climb is important. Bird perches are great additions to sugar glider cages, and you can also add wooden or plastic perches. You can also add ladders, ramps, stairs, and more.
It is also possible to add branches externally, but be careful when doing so. If you want to use your backyard branches for sugar glider cages, first sterilize them by baking them in an oven on a very low setting (about 200 degrees Fahrenheit) for 30 minutes. This keeps bacteria and parasites out. don’t leave this wood in the oven.
toy
Toys can be as simple or as complex as you like, as long as they are safe for the sugar glider. Most sugar gliders prefer toys that are made for birds, but it is important to remove any small parts that the sugar glider can chew off and swallow.
However, if you want to keep things simple and affordable, you can add items such as PVC plumbing tubing that you can buy at your local hardware store. These toys are great tunnels and places to climb for your sugar glider, giving them as much fun as the expensive ones.
running wheel
As long as you pay attention to your sugar glider’s needs, it’s a good idea to have a running wheel for your sugar glider. Sugar gliders should never be given a running wheel with a wire bottom, as this can damage their feet and toes.
Instead, give your sugar glider a wheel with a solid surface. Some styles of wheels are designed like flat plates that rotate roughly horizontally rather than vertically, and these are the safest choices for sugar gliders to use.
Your sugar glider is ready for a great cage
Armed with this information, you should be well on your way to setting up the best cage for your sugar glider. If you heed these recommendations and requirements, your pet will surely enjoy the environment you’ve created for them.
Remember to always choose an enclosure large enough for your sugar glider. Sugar gliders often jump and climb, so they should usually be kept in pairs. For this reason, cages should be at least 2 feet wide, 2 feet deep, and 3 feet high. But bigger is better for sugar gliders.
Sugar gliders require a special diet to keep them well nourished. Consult your exotic mammal veterinarian for proper dietary instructions.
If you have any questions or if it’s time for a sugar glider test, call the Louisiana Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital. (504) 455-6386.