🐇 Small Pets

Sugar Glider

Gliding marsupials that need a lot of attention.

Sugar gliders are small, nocturnal marsupials that glide between trees. They need companions, a complex diet and nightly interaction. They are illegal in some states.

Lifespan10–15 years
SizeTiny · 3–5 oz
Care levelExpert
Typical cost$40–80 / month
Great for
Experienced exotic keepersNight owlsSocialNocturnalVocal
Sugar Glider

Photo: patrickkavanagh · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Care guide

Daily care

A tall cage (at least 3 ft high) with pouches, branches and a safe wheel.

A specialized balanced diet of protein, produce and nectar replacements.

Nightly out-of-cage time in a glider-safe room.

Nail trims.

Health

Common health concerns

Know what to watch for. Early detection makes most of these far easier and cheaper to treat.

  • Calcium deficiency
  • Obesity
  • Stress-related self-harm
  • Dental disease
Veterinary care

Vet visits

Find a vet experienced with marsupials; check state laws first.

Find a vet near me

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This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Costs are rough U.S. estimates for food, supplies and routine care. Always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet’s needs.