Sugar gliders, also known as sugar bears, are small furry animals native to parts of Australia. They have both pros and cons as pets. They generally cost less than dogs and cats,however, they can be challenging to keep. In spite of their challenges, people still keep them as pets. Furry sugar gliders are perfectly at home in Australia, but they may not be well suited for most people’s homes.
Sugar gliders are native to eastern and northern mainland Australia and can be found on a few nearby islands. They weigh only four to five ounces. They live in trees and are nocturnal. Sugar gliders are omnivores, feasting on both fruit and insects. They also like nectar, which is where the name sugar glider originated. In recent years, sugar gliders have navigated from their native surroundings to become trendy popular pets, however, they may not be the best pet for every person.
There are advantages and disadvantages to having pet sugar gliders. They can make great companions for as long as 15 years! They can form strong bonds with their owners and are very intelligent. Sugar gliders are also cute (see pictures below). Unfortunately, since they are nocturnal they are often awake at night and will frequently bark. They cannot be trained to use a litter box either, unlike other types of pets such as cats and ferrets. They tend to make a mess andmay also bite. Obviously, there are both advantages and disadvantages to owning these unique pets, but before buying a sugar glider, the prospective owner must also consider care and cost.
Sugar gliders have some specific needs. They require a large cage. They enjoy a wide variety of foods. Their favorite foods are oranges, papayas, tangerines, pineapples, mangos, strawberries, and other fruits. If a fruit is typically peeled before eating, a pet owner must peel the fruit for a sugar glider. They also enjoy insects such as meal worms. The typical annual cost of a sugar glider is around $90.
Clearly, sugar gliders make interesting pets, but they require time and energy from the owner. If someone has the time, patience, and resources to properly care for this unique animal, owning a sugar glider can be fun. They are inexpensive but have some special needs. They are long lived compared to other small mammals, so the owner must be prepared to care for a sugar glider for a long time. Anyone considering a sugar glider should research the animal before jumping into such a long term commitment.
Exotic Pets for People 