Basic facts
Species: sugar gliders (Petaurus breviceps); small, nocturnal marsupials
Lifespan: 9–12 years in captivity
Size: body, 5–12 in (13–30 cm); tail, 6–9 in (15–23 cm)
Weight: males, 4–6 ounces (110–170 grams); females, 3–5 ounces (85–140 grams)
Highly social; keep in pairs or groups when possible
Home setup (must-haves)
Sturdy, lockable, wire mesh cage (minimum 24 in long × 36 in wide × 36 in high, or 61 cm long × 91 cm wide × 91 cm high); wire mesh (minimum bar spacing 1 in × ½ in, or 2.5 cm × 1.3 cm)
Nest box or pouch mounted in cage with clearance above (to avoid tearing the patagium)
Shredded newspaper, paper towels, recycled paper, or aspen shavings for bedding (no pine or cotton)
Room temperature 80–88°F (27–31°C) if possible but can tolerate 60–90°F (15–32°C); avoid vents and direct sun
Safe branches (apple or citrus if pesticide-free), swings, toys, hiding spots
No free roaming without supervision and no interaction with other pets
Daily care
At least 2 hours of social time every evening or night
Regular feeding twice a day or as directed by a veterinarian; fresh water available at all times
Spot-cleaning: food and water dishes (daily), soiled bedding (as needed), remove uneaten food
Feeding basics
Core diet: artificial nectar (about 50% of diet), commercial pellets, calcium-treated insects
Protein sources: insects (mealworms or crickets gut-loaded or dusted with calcium), small pieces of cooked poultry, boiled eggs
Fruits and vegetables: small amounts as treats (no more than 10% of diet); thoroughly washed
Foods to avoid: chocolate, candy, canned fruit, fruit pits and seeds, raw meat and eggs, caffeine, frequent high-fat treats
Supplements: calcium plus vitamin D3 and multivitamin, as recommended by vet
Health and veterinary care
In advance, find a vet experienced with exotic pets. Don't wait for an emergency.
Schedule an initial vet exam and annual checkups thereafter (with fecal test), or as needed.
Watch for signs of illness (weakness, weight loss, poor appetite, abnormal droppings, breathing trouble, bald patches, dragging back legs, sunken eyes), and seek vet care promptly.
Feed hard-bodied insects to prevent dental tartar, and seek dental treatment as needed.
Common issues and prevention
Malnutrition and metabolic bone disease (soft bones): Prevent with balanced diet, calcium and vitamin D3 supplements, gut-loaded or dusted insects.
Infections: Wash hands after handling gliders or cleaning cages. Separate sick animals.
Social stress: Keep in compatible groups. Neuter males if not breeding. Provide hiding places.
Obesity: Prevent with proper diet and exercise.
Safety and legal notes
Check local laws regarding ownership and breeding of sugar gliders. If owning four or more breeding females, follow federal regulations (Animal Welfare Act).
Keep sugar gliders away from cat litter and raw or undercooked meat (to decrease toxoplasmosis risk).
Quick emergency actions
Bring dehydrated or very ill sugar gliders to the vet immediately. They can decline quickly.
If a claw or tail gets caught (in fabric, for example), gently free it to avoid fractures. See a vet for injuries.
For poisoning (chocolate, toxin exposure), seek immediate veterinary help.
Supplies to buy in advance
Large, lockable cage; nest pouch or box; bedding; water bottle or dish; food dishes; commercial sugar glider diet or nectar mix; calcium and vitamin supplements; insects (gut-loaded with calcium); branches and toys.
