About Laurie Gallagher Expertise Since 2002, I have owned, bred and now rescue and re-home sugar gliders. was a USDA Licensed breeder until June of 2007 and, as of December 2006, have converted to a sugar glider rescue and re-homing only operation. I can help with questions about diet, habitat, enrichment, behavior, bonding, rescues, joeys, health.
IF YOU SUSPECT YOUR SUGAR GLIDER IS SICK, CONTACT A QUALIFIED SUGAR GLIDER VETERINARIAN IMMEDIATELY. (I am not a veterinarian and cannot replace a visit to the vet).
Experience I was a USDA licensed breeder. I was a sugar glider breeder and rescuer for 6 years. I was also an administrator on Worldwide Sugar Glider Network (WSGN) Screen name: Lauriegall
Education/Credentials No formal education on sugar gliders but years of research and experience.
Real Estate Agent at http://www.lauriegallagher.com/ and Paralegal
Question hi im julia im 11 and thinking because ive been working to get a ferret and now i can although im thinking what about sugar gliders so now i have some questions how big does the cage have to be are they rodents and also do they smell thats all
thank u
julia
Answer Dear Julia:
Sugar gliders are a lot of work! They require large cages compared to their size -- at least 2' x 2' x 3' high, but even bigger is better. They are not rodents. Sugar gliders are nocturnal marsupials related to kangaroos and opossums. They require a very specialized diet consisting of a proven diet staple, fresh fruits and vegetables and a source of protein (mealworms, crickets, chicken, turkey, or eggs every night. They do have an odor and their vet bills can be quite expensive.
I do have to also caution you that sugar gliders live 10-12 years. What will you be doing in the next 10-12 years? Do you plan to go to college, travel, start a family? It's a sad fact, but when 11 year-olds get sugar gliders (or teenagers), most of them end up as rescues. They are a lot of work even for adults. I recommend you choose another pet that is not quite so much work. Please ask your parents to read this.
