If you have a sugar glider, you might be wondering where they like to be petted. Sugar Gliders like to be petted on their heads and along their back, which causes them to make an adorable trilling sound that shows they are happy.
If you’re considering giving a sugar glider a home, it’s important to note that they require special care. We’ll discuss how to care for your sugar glider below, including what to feed it and whether your pet likes to be cuddled or not.
What Is a Sugar Glider?
A sugar glider is a small marsupial that many people mistake for rodents. However, they are not rodents; they are more closely related to the kangaroo and Koloa than a rat or a mouse. These marsupials have steadily been growing in popularity as pets and are said to be inquisitive, energetic, interesting, and quite loving.
If your sugar glider is socialized properly and treated well, it will make a great family pet. A well-cared-for sugar glider can live up to 15 years, so make sure you’re ready to commit to your furry little friend for the long run.
Do Sugar Gliders Like to be Held and Petted?
When they are taken care of, sugar gliders love to be held and petted. They love to be petted on their heads and along their backs. They are also very active, so they love to play. Many sugar gliders like to be carried on their owner’s shoulder or in their shirt pocket, so they can go along for the ride but not be held the entire way.
They are nocturnal animals, so make sure that the sugar glider has a comfortable enclosure that’s not in direct sunlight. They’re not ideal pets to keep in your bedroom unless you sleep during the day. They can get pretty loud when they’re playing at night.
You should always supervise your sugar glider when it’s out of its cage, as the more comfortable they get with you and the surroundings, the more it’ll want to explore. However, they’re delicate and can easily become injured if you’re not keeping a close eye on them.
What Should I Feed My Sugar Glider?
When they live in the wild, a sugar glider’s diet will vary. Sugar gliders are omnivores and tend to eat what’s in season. Since they usually eat pollen, spiders, larva, sap, gum, nectar, and plant blossoms, it can be difficult to feed your pet the same diet. However, some of the fruits and vegetables below are easy to find at the grocery store. For the insects, you’ll need to visit a pet store.
Vegetables
Insects
Fruits
Never feed your sugar glider commercial food made for reptiles or cats because it contains ingredients that make them sick. Fruits and treats, while okay to give to your pet occasionally, shouldn’t make up more than 5% of the marsupial’s diet.
Never give your sugar glider chocolate, raisins, dairy products, or grapes. They are toxic and can cause a quick death. If you follow the guidelines above and feed your sugar glider in the afternoon or even the early evening when they naturally eat, your pet should be happy and healthy.
What Medical Conditions Should I Watch for With My Sugar Glider?
As with any pet you give a forever home, there are health issues you need to be on the lookout for with your sugar glider. Here are a few to watch out for.
As with any other pet, your sugar glider should have regular checkups with a vet. If your pet becomes lethargic, eats differently, or even seems a bit off its normal routine, it’s best to consult your vet to determine the cause of the changes and see what can be done about the issue.
Taking your sugar glider to the vet for regular checkups can catch many of these health conditions before they get any worse.
Final Thoughts
Sugar gliders make great pets when fed a well-balanced diet and given plenty of love and attention. They like to be petted on their heads and backs, love to cuddle, and even enjoy riding on their owner’s shoulder. They are curious little creatures, and when cared for properly, sugar gliders are entertaining pets that provide several years of companionship.
Featured Image Credit: Madoka Shiozaki, Shutterstock