Disorders and Diseases of Sugar Gliders

Many disorders and diseases that occur in sugar gliders are related to dietary imbalances, including malnutrition, obesity, and vitamin and mineral imbalances. Others are related to infection with bacteria, fungi, or parasites.   Aflatoxicosis Aflatoxicosis is a liver disease caused by toxins produced by certain fungi in or on foods and feeds. Corn, peanuts, and cottonseed are the most likely t

Female sugar gliders reach puberty at 8 to 12 months old; males reach puberty at 12 to 15 months old. They have an estrous cycle (time when they are receptive to mating) of about 29 days. As is common with marsupials, gestation (pregnancy) usually only lasts 15 to 17 days. After birth the babies, called joeys, crawl into their mother’s pouch, where they remain until they are 70 to 74 days old. Young sugar gliders usually wean themselves at about 4 months of age. Suga

Because sugar gliders are exotic animals, you should find a veterinarian who is familiar with these animals before your pet requires emergency care. Sugar gliders should have both a new pet checkup and an annual physical examination with a veterinarian who also performs a fecal examination for abnormal parasites and harmful bacteria.   Signs of Illness The sugar glider’s overall appearance and

Before bringing home a sugar glider, make sure you have made arrangements for suitable housing, diet, and exercise.   Temperament Sugar gliders are very active, playful, intelligent, and inquisitive animals. They can develop strong bonds with their owners if given consistent and plentiful attention. At least 2 hours a day of interactive contact is recommended. Shorter or less frequent attention

Because sugar gliders are nocturnal, they should be kept in a fairly quiet area and allowed to sleep during the day. They can be easily stressed if awakened and taken out of their cages in daytime hours. This can increase the risk of illness. Sugar gliders are most active and playful in the evenings and at night. This is also when they are most vocal. Sugar gliders should be provided with a large cage that is both sturdy and safe. Injury can resu

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Adequate housing, a good diet, and routine parasite control will help to minimize disease in pet reptiles, as with other animals.   Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders of Reptiles Septicemia, caused by bacteria in the blood, is a common cause of death in reptiles. The disease affects the whole body and may result from trauma, an abscess, an infestation

Even though pet reptiles live in carefully controlled environments, injuries and accidents are possible.   Burns in Reptiles Burns in reptiles may be caused by unscreened incandescent lights or other heat sources. They are treated by cleaning the site, applying antibiotic ointment, and placing the reptile in a clean, dry environment. In uninfected burns, sterile skin protectant bandages can be applied to th

Good sanitation and nutrition and a properly designed environment play a major role in preventing many common health problems in reptiles. However, if medical attention is required, reptiles respond best to treatment from a veterinarian familiar with their special needs. When selecting a veterinarian for your reptile, ask about experience with reptiles and select a veterinarian with an appropriate level of experience and interest.   Importanc