HEALTH PROBLEMS
Sugar gliders, though small and adorable, are complex exotic pets that require specific diets, habitats, and care. When these needs aren’t met, they’re prone to several health problems — many of which can become serious quickly.
Here’s an overview of the common health problems in sugar gliders, grouped by cause:
🦴 1. Nutritional Problems
Most common issue in captivity.
a. Nutritional Secondary Hyperparathyroidism (Metabolic Bone Disease)
Cause: Imbalance of calcium and phosphorus, often due to poor diet (e.g., too much fruit, not enough calcium, or incorrect supplements).
Symptoms: Weakness, tremors, hind-leg paralysis, bone fractures, lethargy, poor appetite.
Prevention: Balanced diet, proper supplementation, approved glider diet like HPW, or Critter Love.
b. Obesity
Cause: Too many fatty/sugary foods (e.g., mealworms, fruit treats).
Symptoms: Lethargy, difficulty gliding, fat deposits, heart/liver problems.
Prevention: Controlled diet, regular exercise, larger cage with enrichment.
c. Malnutrition
Cause: Feeding fruit-only or unbalanced “homemade” diets.
Symptoms: Poor coat, weakness, stunted growth, susceptibility to illness.
🦠 2. Infectious Diseases
a. Bacterial Infections
Common culprits: E. coli, Salmonella, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas.
Symptoms: Diarrhea, dehydration, lethargy, loss of appetite.
Prevention: Clean cage, fresh food/water, minimal stress.
b. Parasites
Internal: Roundworms, tapeworms, Giardia.
External: Mites, fleas, ticks.
Symptoms: Scratching, hair loss, diarrhea, visible parasites.
Prevention: Routine fecal checks and vet care.
c. Fungal or Yeast Infections
Often occur with immune suppression or poor hygiene.
Symptoms: Skin lesions, odor, or respiratory issues.
😟 3. Stress-Related Problems
Sugar gliders are social and intelligent; loneliness or environmental stress can lead to:
Self-mutilation (biting, overgrooming)
Lethargy or aggression
Loss of appetite
Reproductive problems
Prevention: Keep in pairs/groups, provide enrichment, and avoid sudden environment changes.
⚠️ 4. Injuries
Falls or cage accidents: Broken bones, tail injuries.
Bite wounds: From cage mates or other pets.
Foreign body ingestion: From toys or bedding.
Treatment: Immediate vet care—gliders mask pain until very ill.
💩 5. Digestive Problems
Diarrhea or constipation: Often diet-related.
Dehydration: Due to illness or heat stress.
Symptoms: Lethargy, small/dry or runny stool, weight loss.
💔 6. Reproductive & Urinary Issues
Uterine infections (females) or penile prolapse (males).
Urinary tract infections → straining, blood in urine, foul odor.
Treatment: Requires exotic vet; don’t delay.
🩺 7. Dental Disease
Cause: Poor diet (too soft/sugary), lack of chewing.
Symptoms: Drooling, difficulty eating, weight loss.
Prevention: Include insects and hard foods for dental wear.