NAIL TRIMMING 

 

Sugar glider nails grow quickly, and trimming is important because sharp nails can:

Get caught in fabric, causing injuries

Scratch you during handling

Make climbing uncomfortable for them

1. Tools You’ll Need

Small animal nail clippers (cat, bird, or human baby clippers work)

Styptic powder (or cornstarch) in case you cut too short and it bleeds

A fleece pouch or towel to gently restrain them

Treats for distraction and reward

2. How to Hold Them

Wrap your glider in a fleece “burrito” with just one paw sticking out.

Or, place them in a bonding pouch with a hole to pull out one paw at a time.

Some owners do trims when their glider is sleepy, as they’re calmer then.

3. Where to Trim

Look for the clear curved tip of the nail.

Avoid the quick (the pink vein inside the nail).

Only snip off the sharp hook at the end.

4. Step-by-Step

Hold the paw gently but firmly.

Clip just the tip of each nail.

Check each paw before moving on.

Reward with a favourite treat afterward.

5. Frequency

Usually every 2–4 weeks depending on how fast their nails grow.

6. Tips to Make It Easier

Use a red light at night (they see it less) if trimming while awake.

Have a helper—one holds the glider, the other trims.

Some owners install trim tracks (wheels lined with safe sandpaper) to keep nails naturally worn down, but trimming is still needed.

⚠️ Safety Notes

If you accidentally cut the quick and it bleeds, press a little styptic powder or cornstarch on the nail until it stops.

Never use human nail files—they can split glider nails.

Stay calm—your glider may crab, but with practice they’ll get used to trims.