How to Pick a Healthy Sugar Glider

Weighing only 4 to 5 ounces, sugar gliders are tiny, social animals. They are native to Australia and New Guinea. Like kangaroos, sugar gliders are a part of the marsupial family. A healthy glider can live up to 15 years. When selecting a sugar glider as a pet, make sure to select a healthy animal.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Buy a sugar glider from a breeder or a rescue organization. The care provided in these types of settings usually produces a healthier glider that's better suited to life as a pet. It's also more likely that a facility of this type will know the animal's age.

2. Verify that the sugar glider has all its digits. There should be four feet with five digits each. All four feet should be able to grip well. The glider should walk normally without dragging any of its legs.

3. Inspect the overall cleanliness of the glider. Its fur should be smooth and free of parasites. The ear canals should be clean. The gums, mucus membranes and nose should all be pink. The nose should also be moist but free of discharge. Eyes should be clear and bright with no discharge.

4. Check the skin that stretches from the glider's wrist to the ankle. This wing membrane is what helps the animal glide. The area should have good elasticity.

5. Observe the level of activity in the sugar glider. A healthy glider is active, alert and sociable. Sugar gliders are group animals. They thrive on companionship and can become depressed without enough attention.