Sugar Glider Illnesses

Sugar gliders come from Australia.

Sugar gliders are not the easiest pets to care for, which often leads to them falling ill. Because they have not been kept for as long as other domestic pets, such as cats and dogs, sugar gliders are considered exotic pets. It is not legal in all states to keep sugar gliders as pets. For example, it is illegal to keep sugar gliders as pets in Alaska, California and Hawaii. You need to check your state regulations before you decide to purchase or adopt a sugar glider. They have a special diet that may require time-consuming preparation. A poor diet and owner neglect can lead to a depressed, stressed and malnourished sugar glider. Fortunately, illnesses can be prevented and treated.

Considerations

Bananas are high in calcium and provide a nutritious value to your sugar glider's diet.

Sugar gliders commonly fall ill due to an inappropriate diet. Their diet should consist of insects for protein, fruits and vegetables and supplemental vitamins and minerals. A diet low in calcium can lead to hind leg paralysis when calcium is leached from the bone. Contaminated food can lead to liver damage or cancer due to foods that have become moldy with fungus. Besides inappropriate diet, unhygienic conditions can lead to bacterial and parasitic infections.

Symptoms of Illness

If your sugar glider has a change in sleeping pattern, it may be sick.

Any unusual behavior from the norm is a good indication your sugar glider is ill. Other signs and symptoms of illnesses include loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, any swelling, change in sleeping patterns, rapid breathing or weakness.

Preventing Illness

Provide toys to stimulate your sugar glider's mind.

Taking good care of your glider with a nutritious well-balanced diet, providing play and exercise in a large-enough cage, and adding another glider companion can prevent a number of illnesses.

Provide a well-balanced and nutritious diet. Monitor food consumption carefully and ensure your sugar glider is eating. Determine the calcium-to-phosphorous ratio of your sugar glider diet. Too much phosphorous prevents calcium absorption.

Sugar gliders are prone to depression if neglected and not mentally stimulated. They are social creatures and are best kept in pairs. Provide plenty of attention and bonding time. Give your sugar glider toys to play.

Hygiene

Clean food bowls before filling them with food.

Always maintain a clean living space. Clean your sugar glider cage or living space weekly with a weak bleach or other nontoxic disinfecting solution and rinse thoroughly. Replace litter or nesting material as required. Clean food and water dishes daily. Always wash your hands and ensure the food you give to your glider is clean.

Treatment

Take your sugar glider to a vet for treatments and annual checkups.

Keep an emergency vet contact information in case your sugar glider falls ill. A veterinarian can diagnose and treat your sugar glider appropriately. He can make suggestions in ways to improve your sugar glider's diet and provide updated immunizations if required.

References

• Sugar Glider University: Sugar Glider Medical Reference
• The Glider Pouch: Proper Diet & Nutrition
• Sugar Glider Authority: Housing Your Sugar Glider