Everything You Need to get Before Bringing Home A Suggie

1.) Cage – Sugar gliders require a spacious cage featuring horizontal bars that facilitate climbing and jumping. The bar spacing should be a minimum of 1/2 inch to ensure they cannot escape. Many glider owners favor the Critter Nation cage due to its ample size and the option to expand it if necessary. The cage must provide sufficient space for food, water, toys, and sleeping pouches. It is also important to position the cage in a quiet, warm location, away from direct sunlight, drafts, and potential predators.

For the bottom of the cage, you can use newspaper or recycled paper that is non-toxic if ingested. Avoid cedar shavings, as these can cause respiratory irritation in sugar gliders. Personally, I prefer using non-peel fleece, but the choice ultimately depends on your preference. The most crucial aspect is to clean the cage and its lining with soap and water at least once a week, along with regularly washing the toys and accessories.

2.) Bonding Gloves – When you’re beginning the process of bonding with your Sugar Glider, using a bonding glove can be incredibly beneficial. These specialized gloves are designed to create a safe and comfortable environment for both you and your gliders. The glove offers a layer of protection for your hands, which is particularly helpful in case your Sugar Glider feels anxious or threatened and decides to bite.

The texture of the glove can also provide a sense of security for your glider, making the initial interactions less intimidating. This way, they can explore and become accustomed to your scent and presence without feeling overly stressed. Remember, building trust takes time, and using a bonding glove can make this experience smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your Sugar Glider.

3.) Bonding Pouch – Bonding pouches play a crucial role in establishing a connection with your new glider. They help the glider recognize you as a safe and trustworthy presence. However, it is essential to ensure that the pouch you choose is free from loose threads or any elements that could pose a risk of entanglement or injury to your new companion.

4.) Cage Pouches – Gliders require a warm and tranquil environment where they feel secure enough to sleep peacefully. It is essential to provide them with a cozy pouch that can be hung inside their cage, as this serves as their safe haven. The pouch should be made from materials that are glider safe such as anti-pill fleece, and cotton both safe and will ensure comfort and insulation. Positioning the pouch in a quiet corner of the cage will help create a serene space, allowing gliders to relax and recharge without disturbances. Regularly checking the pouch for cleanliness and loose threads will also contribute to their overall well-being.

5.) Nail clippers – Maintaining regular nail clipping for your glider is crucial for their safety and health. Weekly trims help prevent the nails from breaking or getting caught on fabric, which could lead to your glider becoming stuck or trapped in one place. Ensuring that your glider can move freely around the cage without the risk of getting caught is essential, as this can happen quite easily.

Most sugar glider owners use cuticle clippers to cut their glider’s Nails along with a nail clipping pouch and some treats to keep the glider occupied while you’re trimming their nails. Please watch the video I created here to see what works for me.

Trimming a sugar glider’s nails requires patience and attention to detail. Their tiny nails can be hard to see, and they tend to wiggle, which can make the process challenging. If you ever feel unsure about trimming your glider’s nails, it’s best to seek help from someone experienced who can either do it for you or guide you through the process. Additionally, it’s important to have styptic powder on hand in case you accidentally trim too far.

6.) Glass water bottle – Water bottles can be tricky because many of them don’t function well. They often leak or stop working altogether, which can lead to your Suggie becoming dehydrated. Therefore, it’s essential to regularly check your water bottles to ensure they are working properly.

7.) Food Dishes – I use two food dishes—one for dry kibble and one for their wet food, like “salad” or any other diet suitable for your glider.

8.) Wheel – A safe wheel is important as well. Your glider needs a way to play and get exercise. The problem is most wheels although marked for sugar gliders are not safe for them. That is why we started making our own. 1 it was cheaper than the safe ones on amazon and 2 I knew it would be safe for my Gliders.