Here’s a short version of everything you need to know before owning a sugar glider:

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🐾 Basics

• Lifespan: 10–15 years in captivity.

• Size: 4–7 inches body, 6–12 inches tail.

• Social Needs: Extremely social—best kept in pairs or groups.

• Nocturnal: Active at night; they’ll make noise and need interaction after dark.

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🏡 Habitat

• Cage Size: Tall and spacious—at least 24x24x36 inches.

• Enrichment: Climbing branches, pouches, wheels (glider-safe), toys.

• Temperature: Prefer 75–80°F. Cold can stress or kill them.

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🍽️ Diet

• Complex Diet: Not just fruit! Needs a balance of:

  • Protein (insects, eggs, glider-safe diet)

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables

  • Calcium supplements

• Common diets: BML, HPW, or TPG diets (researched & balanced plans).

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🧠 Behavior

• Bonding: Takes time—can take weeks or months.

• Smell: Musky odor, especially in males (neutering helps).

• Biting: Possible if not bonded or scared.

• Marking territory: Expect scent marking.

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🏥 Health

• Vet care: Needs an exotic vet. Annual check-ups recommended.

• Common issues: Malnutrition, parasites, injuries, stress-related illness.

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⚠️ Things to Consider

• Legal?: Not legal in all areas (e.g. some US states or cities).

• Time commitment: Requires daily handling & mental stimulation.

• Messy: Throw food, scent mark, and may not be litter-trainable.

• Escape artists: Very fast and small—secure housing is crucial.