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BEDDING

The perfect bedding for the little sugar glider is not pine or cedar shavings which may contain aromatic oils, but something biodegradable which can be flushed or incinerated for easier disposable. The brand Carefresh is one product that is not only 100% natural but also is preferred by many breeders as it controls odors, while also killing bacteria, mold, and fungus. If this is something not affordable-many owners and breeders have been known to use a form of corn cob bedding.

Either way, it should be changed anywhere from daily to three times a week to prevent odor. The Carefresh bedding may last longer, such as 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the number of sugar gliders and the numbers of males in the colony. Many owners use newspapers in the bottom of the cage, but this is considered a very toxic product to them and eventually will either kill them or make them very ill due to the ink.

DISHES

Dishes are important for the little sugar gliders to eat and drink out of. If you happen to be one of the owners who use bowls, they should be heavy enough they will not topple over as the animals scurry around, with another choice being a bowl with a heavy-weighted bottom. They should not be too deep, as sugar gliders cannot swim and drown easily (which is why toilet lids need to also be down if your pet roams loose in the home). The bowls also cannot be made of a light plastic as they have a tendency to chew it up as if it were a chew toy. Ceramic or stainless steel is preferred as the materials of choice.

The problem with using bowls in the bottom of the cage is this is not a natural location for the sugar glider as they swoop from heights when eating. Also, when in the wild they stay to the top of the trees. As an alternative to this, many breeders use large bird cups attached to the side of the cage in higher locations to take care of this situation. Several cups may be used with a mix of vegetables, fruits, proteins sources with little fat content, and supplements. Water bottles mixed with some sweet juice can also be placed in higher locations.

POUCHES

A pouch is where the little newborn sugar glider begins its new life. It is dark, tight and warm for days until they take a chance and peer curiously into their new world with maybe just a touch of fear. There is nothing more precious than the sight of these tiny creatures with bright black eyes, catching their first glimpse of life "beyond the pouch", warming the hearts of anyone who sees them with an instant "I

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