Thinking about getting a sugar glider… questions and advice?

Animals Forum
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I’ve got tons of questions before deciding. What’s the initial cost including the cage and supplies? And how much does it cost monthly to care for a sugar glider? Preferably in CAD, but any currency works if you can’t convert it.

Would my lifestyle even work for having one? I’m a high school student and sometimes have hockey after school, getting home as late as 10:30 or 11. I’m mostly free in the summer. What about vacations? Can they stay alone for a weekend or longer?

Also, I live in Calgary, Alberta. Are there any trusted breeders nearby?

Any tips or advice would be super helpful! Thanks so much.

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Sugar gliders can live up to 10-15 years if taken care of properly. One thing to think about is whether your future plans, like college, allow pets. Most dorms don’t.

They’re nocturnal, so they sleep during the day and are active at night. They can only be left alone for a single night. For longer trips, someone needs to check on them daily or you’d have to take them with you.

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@Lian
If I take them with me, is it okay to keep them in a smaller space temporarily as long as I provide exercise like a wheel? Also, can they be trusted outdoors without a harness, or are they strictly indoor pets?

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@Clove
There are travel cages made for temporary situations. You can also carry them around in a zipped bonding pouch after they’ve bonded with you. This can take time because sugar gliders don’t immediately trust you like dogs or cats.

Leashes or harnesses aren’t safe. Gliders jump a lot, and if they get scared and jump to a tree or bush, the leash could tangle and hurt them, even fatally. Harnesses also press on their gliding membranes and can cause injuries. It’s really better to avoid both.

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@Lian
What about something like a hamster ball?

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Clove said:
@Lian
What about something like a hamster ball?

Hamster balls aren’t safe for sugar gliders. There are rolling toys designed specifically for them, but they’re meant for indoor use. Also, keep in mind that gliders are nocturnal and prefer nighttime play. They aren’t like daytime pets that want to play whenever you do.

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I breed sugar gliders and have a business page on Facebook. I’m about 7 hours from Calgary. I also know of a breeder in southern Alberta called Sugar Glider Stitchery. You can find her on Facebook too if you’re interested.

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@Luca
Thanks! I’ll keep this in mind if I decide to move forward. I want to make sure I can properly care for a glider before taking the next step.

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Great discussion! Just wanted to add a little more info for anyone curious about glider care. If you have questions, feel free to ask. There are also free mentoring groups available like Sugar Glider Groupies: Redirecting....

Here’s some important info:

1. Sugar gliders need company
They’re colony animals and should never be kept alone. At least two gliders are recommended. Getting a bonded pair is easier than introducing new gliders later. Gliders that are kept alone can become depressed, over-groom themselves, or even self-harm. They also tend to stop eating without proper companionship.

2. Costs
Initial setup costs, including gliders, cages, wheels, toys, and food, can reach $1,000 or more. Monthly expenses, like food and vet bills, add up to around $100. If that feels like too much, this might not be the right pet for you.

3. Cage size
A proper cage for two or three gliders should be at least 4 ft tall and 2x2 ft wide. Larger cages are always better. For example, two Triple Critter Nations joined together make an amazing space for gliders. Check out these recommended cages:

4. Wheels
A wheel is essential, with one wheel for every two gliders. The wheel must be at least 12 inches in diameter and shouldn’t have a center bar, as these can injure or kill gliders. Good options include:

5. Toys
Toys keep gliders mentally stimulated. They’re smart animals and need enrichment like puzzles, carry toys, and interactive items. There are many great vendors listed in the Files section of Sugar Glider Groupies.

6. Diet
Diet is critical. Gliders require a specific balance of nutrients to stay healthy. Research diets thoroughly before bringing one home. A poor diet can lead to severe health issues.