Sugar gliders are adorable little critters. Often they are found in small hamster cages in pet stores and many are even sold that way. However, proper housing requires a lot more then a tiny hamster cage can provide and knowing what to buy your sugar glider ahead of time can save them a lot of stress.
Size.
The first thing to keep in mind when choosing a cage for a sugar glider is that they are climbers and jumpers. While you may have had to dig the little fur ball out in order to have a look at him at the store, once the dark of night comes he or she will want to be very active. Therefore a large cage is necessary, even though they will continue to be small. The most important part of the cage size is also going to be the height verses the width and depth of it. A good goal to aim for is 24 inches by 24 inches by at least 36 inches. Although this is a decent size for one or two gliders, keep in mind that the larger the better. Even more so, the taller the better!
Bars.
Your cage should be made of wire mesh squares or horizontal bars. Squares should be no bigger then 1/2 inch by 1 inch and bars should be spaced no farther apart then 1/2 inch. This provides easy foot holds for your furry little friend to use as climbing guides. At the same time it keeps your new critter in rather then allowing it to escape out and about. While the ferret cage certainly can look fun, be a great size, and offer a lot of toys, it isn't going to be a good bar spacing and your new pet will be better off if you order an actual sugar glider cage off of the Internet. Most stores won't offer a suitable cage, but you can look around.
Nesting Options.
Not only is it important to have a cage that is proper for your sugar glider there are some other needs that should be met in the housing category. The biggest thing is a nest. Sugar gliders usually sleep during the day and are active during the night. They have eyes that are very sensitive to light and they also are known for being "pocket pals" for a reason. This is that they like to curl up in a nice soft warm place for the day and sleep it away. Because of this, you need to provide some sort of nest.
There are a few different options and what you choose is up to you. The first is a wood box. You can buy one or build your own. This should be attached as close to the top of the cage as possible so that your sugar glider won't go to the bathroom on top of it. The disadvantage of a wood box is that they absorb urine and are hard to clean. This means they have to be replaced every so often.
Another option is an unglazed clay pot with wholes in the side. These too can be made or purchased, but also offer many of the problems as the wooden one. They are still better then the plastic option due to the fact that the clay breaths and allows more air flow.
However, if none of these options works for you, you can choose a plastic nest. Pick one out that is made for sugar gliders. These can be washed regularly and are easy to make sure that they are clean. When washing make sure you use a non-toxic soap and not dish soap or other harmful cleaner.
One last option, and a favorite for many is the cloth pouch or sack. These are easy to keep clean because they can be tossed in the laundry and they offer air flow, warmth, and comfort. Your sugar glider(s) will gladly curl up in one for the night. They can also be attached to the walls or the ceiling and can be bought or made in a variety of sizes, colors, and even patterns.
Toys and Activities.
Sugar gliders sleep all day and many get the picture that they are lazy and don't need more then a good nest. However, they enjoy being active and can even get depressed with nothing to do. Providing lots to do isn't hard and can even be a lot of fun. You have a lot of options for building a great cage full of fun!
Branches and perches- Offer a wide variety of branches and perches for your sugar glider to use. If you are unsure of where to get safe branches then stick with the offerings for birds. These things can be attached to the cage, the higher the better. Your glider will use them to run, play, climb, and even try gliding.
Wooden toys- There are a variety of wooden toys that you can offer your pet. Choose ones that are designed for birds or rodents and have fun with them. They can be sticks, ladders, or even hanging disks!
Other- You can also add rope toys for your sugar glider. But the fun doesn't have to stop there. If you introduce your young sugar gliders to a rodent exercise wheel chances are they will fall in love with it. Choose a large variety that is made of solid plastic. Those whith metal bars could cause tails or legs to get caught and injure your little friend.
Dishes.
One last important part to your sugar glider's home is food and water dishes. It is best if you provide a dish that attaches to the side of the cage. It should be just a little smaller then the animal itself so that it doesn't climb in and make a nasty mess. You can provide food from this dish. Your sugar glider can also use a water bottle which is the easiest way to offer clean fresh water.
When it comes to housing a sugar glider you need space, especially height. You also need a nest and lots of toys. Finish it off with a dish for food and a bottle for water and you have a great set up!