Sugar gliders as pets: The basics

by Jackie Davis 06/25/2023

For those who want an exotic pocket-sized animal companion, many would-be pet owners consider getting sugar gliders as pets. These tiny marsupials are native to Australia and Indonesia, and are similar in appearance to gray squirrels.

While sugar gliders are adorable and playful animals, they cannot be truly domesticated like dogs or cats. As with all wild animals, there are many things to think about before choosing one as a pet.

Is it legal to own a sugar glider as a pet?

If you’re interested in owning a sugar glider or any exotic pet, the first thing you need to do is determine if it’s legal where you live. Sugar gliders are illegal to keep as pets in multiple states including Hawaii, Alaska and California. If not banned at the state-level, there may still be county or city regulations prohibiting their ownership.

Sugar glider diet

One major challenge in keeping a pet sugar glider is proper nutrition. These critters need a balanced diet most commercial pellet food can’t provide. Therefore, you’ll need to prepare fresh food for them with plenty of protein and vitamin-rich produce. If sugar gliders don’t eat well, their health can decline rapidly.

Sugar glider behavior & temperament

Sugar gliders are popular for their playful and affectionate temperament. Taking the time to bond with your sugar glider is crucial, as they will learn to trust you and adore your attention. Even though they’re predators in the wild, they rarely bite their owners.

They are colony animals, so experts recommend having at least two of these furry friends to provide each other company and proper socialization. Without constant attention and companionship, they can experience severe health issues stemming from anxiety.

Housing for sugar gliders

Despite being tiny animals, sugar gliders require a significant amount of living space to thrive. You’ll want an enclosure of at least 36x24x36, containing plenty of obstacles for climbing. A sugar glider cage should also include a cozy nest or pocket area for sleep, as well as a variety of toys to encourage exercise and play.

Is a sugar glider right for you and your lifestyle? If you have your heart set on one of these playful and entertaining nocturnal animals, keep these key factors in mind when doing your research.

About the Author
Author

Jackie Davis

Welcome to Jackie Davis and Company. If you have navigated this far, we thank you and would like to share how we differ from other teams and agents. We work tirelessly and are committed to providing 100% customer satisfaction. We recognize, listen, value, and appreciate your goals as you move towards listing or selling your home. As Listing Agents we continuously integrate new and advanced technology to promote your biggest asset. Our strong negotiation skills are invaluable for getting you the best price for your home. As the Buyer's Agent we pride ourselves on being fully educated in our local markets. While focusing on integrity and honesty we will provide you with the highest level of professionalism and analysis. We are proud that this hard work has earned us recognition as top 1% both company and state wide in the industry. Achievements * 1st Quarter 2017 Leading Sales in Fairfield * 2017 February Leading Sales Team * 2017 March Leading Sales Team * Chairman's Elite representing the Top 1% Agent at William Raveis Nationwide & Fairfield County * Over $45 million Listed & Sold in 2016 * Over $30 million Listed & Sold in 2015 * 99% List to Sales Ratio (higher than market average) * 75 Average Days on Market (less than market average) * Jackie Davis Promoted to Sales Vice President 2016 * Raveis Award of Excellence every year * Exceptional Customer Service Award every year * Top Units Sold Team October 2016 * Top Customer Service October 2016 * Top Mortgage Support September 2016 * Top Selling Team January 2016 * Top Mortgage Support August 2015 * Top Selling Team Feb 2014 * Top Producing Team Jan 2014 * Top Selling Team Dec 2013 * Top Selling Team Nov 2013 * Top Producing Team Nov 2013 Professional Specialty Innovative Marketing and Technology equals proven sales. Our team of licensed professionals is ready to serve. We handle: Sellers & Buyers Exceptional Properties Investors Waterfront & Beach Area Homes Country & Equestrian Properties New Construction & Land Relocation Professional Association National Association of Realtors Connecticut Association of Realtors Greater Fairfield Board of Realtors Consolidated Multiple Listing Service Community Involvement PTA committee member for past 14 years from elementary through high school PTA Board Member for 4 years Shoff Darby Advisory Scholarship Board member past 5 years Committee member for Cancer Care of Norwalk past 10 years Volunteer Habitat for Humanity Operation Hope coordinator for elementary and middle schools, last 3 years Volunteer for a variety of town sports teams, that my daughters participate in The County Assemblies Board Member The b-Cause Foundation Board Member- a non-profit organization whose mission is to educate children to recognize neighbors in need in our local community. Wakeman Boys & Girls Club- Fundraising Committee Member Committee Member for Cancer Couch Fundraiser the Cancer Beat 2016 Near and Far Aid Volunteer Education BA from Merrimack College Personal Fairfield resident for 39 years Currently reside in Fairfield Beach Area Married 27 years Four daughters currently in & have graduated Fairfield Public School system Areas Covered Fairfield Southport Westport Weston Norwalk Trumbull Easton Stratford Shelton Milford Stamford Bridgeport