3 of 3

Write now Article Tools

Choosing a healthy sugar glider is the perfect start to a long relationship. A healthy sugar glider will have an easier time bonding with you and is also more likely to be healthy throughout its life. While choosing a healthy glider is an important first step, it is still a good idea to take your new glider to the veterinarian for a check up shortly after you purchase it.

Where you buy it from.

Okay the first thing you should look at is where the glider is coming from. It's true that you can get a healthy sugar glider from a bad location and vise a versa, but for the most part, healthy gliders come from good homes. It isn't a good idea to buy a sugar glider from a pet store. You don't know where these gliders come from nor is it very likely that they have been getting a proper diet and care while at the store. Stick to a breeder it really is best.

Choosing a local breeder will eliminate a lot of stress on the animal and will allow you to check out the animal before you bring it home. This can make a world of difference in the pet that you get. You should ask your breeder about the diet they feed their sugar gliders and joeys, how much the young sugar gliders are handled, the cages they live in, and ask to check out the parents as well as the baby you will be buying. This will let you know how clean the sugar gliders are kept and how healthy the parents look as well as your new baby. This will also give you reassurance that the animal you are purchasing is captive bred (some wild caught sugar gliders are still sold on the market).

Looking for health.

While a lot of sugar glider illnesses and problems aren't something you are going to notice off hand there are signs of good health. You want to get an animal with bright eyes that looks alert. A healthy sugar glider will have a moist pink nose, but it won't be draining any fluids (runny noses in sugar gliders are just as bad as kids). You will want to gently look at his gums and membranes to see if they are pink. The ear should also look clean and clear. Finally feel the glider membrane to make sure it is slightly loose and elasticity. Make sure you are very gentle while checking out the sugar glider and talk softly to it while doing it. The coat of the sugar glider should be smooth and full. Look for patches, rough spots, or other signs of wear that wouldn't be normal.

Observe the sugar glider.

Your sugar glider should feel very comfortable with the breeder. Let him or her hold the baby and watch how they act. They shouldn't be over scared or nervous. They should also move about a bit. Finally watch them go home. All four feet should grip well and they should feel very comfortable in their cage.

While checking our your breeder, the physical condition of the glider, and how he or she behaves isn't going to guarantee a healthy pet it is a great way to start. Shortly after bringing your new pet home take them to a suitable vet for tests including a parasite test. Taking care of any health problems before they are serious is always a good thing. Here's to happy healthy pets!

Learn more about this author, Danelle Karth.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about What to look for in a healthy sugar glider before you buy?
We want to hear your view. Write now!