The sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps) is a small,
omnivorous, arboreal gliding possum belonging to the marsupial infraclass. The
common name refers to its preference for sugary nectarous foods and ability to
glide through the air, much like a flying squirrel
Around the world, the sugar glider is popular as an exotic
pet. Sugar gliders make endearing, playful, and entertaining
pets. As mentioned above they are very social, and ideally they should be kept
in pairs or groups, and in any case they should have a good deal of social
interaction with their owners. They are fairly clean and do not have complex
housing requirements. In addition, they tend to be fairly healthy (although it
may be difficult to find an experienced vet to treat them) and can live to be
12-14 years in captivity. They do need a good amount of interaction (even if it
is just riding around in a pocket all day), and aren't great housetraining
candidates. Their nails are sharp and will scratch if they need to dig in while
climbing or landing on you (keep them well trimmed). They also have sharp teeth
and though not aggressive, will bite if they feel threatened or frightened. If
not acquired tame and used to being handled, it may take a great deal of time
and patience to get them to the point where they are cuddly.
If a sugar glider is not tame when acquired, time, patience,
and gentle frequent training sessions will eventually allow bonding of the
glider to its owner. Gliders adore being near their owners, inside a shirt
(hint wear two shirts and let the glider hang out between them, or else their
claws will tickle or scratch!) or in a pocket. They will be lovely companions,
who view you as an equal. Sugar gliders do not respond at all to punishment or
domination, so treat them with respect, gentleness and understanding, and you
will be rewarded with a devoted companion!
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