by Liza Cameron Wasser

Created on: March 03, 2009

In the wild, sugar gliders live in large colonies. They are very social creatures and crave constant companionship. Human companionship alone is not enough. To keep your pet healthy and avoid stressing him unduly, he needs the companionship of another sugar glider. For this reason, many reputable sugar glider breeders will only sell them in pairs.

As pets, sugar gliders also bond closely with their owners. Even so, it is best to own more than one sugar glider, as their need for social stimulation is great. Before deciding to buy sugar gliders, consider how much time you have to give them the attention they need.

Sugar gliders are nocturnal and do not appreciate being bothered during the day. Many owners like to carry them around in a sling during the day, which helps to satisfy the glider's need for companionship as well as his need for sleep. Because they are nocturnal, you should make sure that you have enough time at night to bond and play with them. Sugar gliders make good pets for people who work the night shift as both they and their owners have the same sleep schedule.

Even if you give your sugar glider plenty of attention, a solitary glider may develop problems if he has no glider companion. Many sugar gliders will become stressed and self-destructive without a glider friend. A solitary sugar glider may also become a biter. Lonely sugar gliders tend to have more health problems than those that live with a partner. Depression is big concern in a solitary sugar glider.

Sugar gliders like to play and will bond with humans, but they do not sit still and let you pet them. They will climb into your hand and hang onto your thumb. They enjoy toys, so provide them with a variety of soft tunnels or snuggly bags to explore. Change the toys regularly so your sugar glider does not get bored. You can also drag a thick string around on the floor for your sugar glider to pounce on and play with, much like you would with a kitten and a string. Sugar gliders like to be gently tickled on the belly and under the chin. If you have pocket trained your glider, he can have fun climbing around on your shirt, in and out of the pockets and up and down your arm. Your sugar glider may even run right up your sleeve.

The most important thing to remember is that your sugar glider is not a "lone wolf." He requires the companionship of other gliders and he enjoys your company, too.

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