Sugar gliders can be presented with a wide array of disease. Most of the ailments seen in a veterinary practice are the result of improper husbandry. Be it ignorance or ill-intent, a good owner needs to be aware of the signs of illness before it becomes life-threatening. This requires time, care, and most importantly a strong bond with a glider. Without these, the pet may not show signs of illness or the owner may not notice.
Aflatoxicosis
Common to production animals such as cattle, pigs, and sheep, aflatoxicosis is a disease presented by loss of appetite, anemia, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and lethargy. Another common symptom is irregular or loose bowel movements. Aflatoxicosis is caused by feed contaminated with aflatoxins. Typically corn, peanuts, and grasses carry these toxins.
A glider can acquire this from the feed directly or from eating insects that have been fed contaminated feed (commonly mealworms are kept with a bran or ground corn mixture for a food source. Aflatoxins: Occurrence and Health Risks). The easy way to prevent this disease is to be sure of the source of the sugar glider’s live and pelleted food. Do not be afraid to ask your supplier questions regarding the food. This disease is also contracted by humans, so consumption of your sugar glider’s food is ill-advised. Consult a veterinarian if you believe your glider is showing signs of aflatoxicosis.
Depression
One of the most prevalent disorders, as well as one of the most difficult to diagnose, depression can strike sugar gliders very easily. It has been noted that companion animals like dogs and cats can suffer from psychological disorders such as anxiety and depression. Sugar gliders are no different. Some cannot live without a fellow glider cuddling up in the cage with them at night. Some signs of depression include loss of appetite, abnormal sleep patterns (awake in the middle of the day), and decreased activity/uninterested in play. Vocalizations can also be indicative of depression. However signs of this differ from glider to glider. Some will vocalize more, calling out to anything that can hear them in the middle of the night. Some vocal buddies might stop vocalization altogether. A good owner should be aware of his pet’s normal behaviors, as what is normal for one pet may not hold true for another. Corrective measures might include purchasing a friend for your pouch pal. Also, lots of attention is warranted from the proud pocket pet parent.
Nutritional Disorders
A wide variety of disease can be caused by improper nutrition. From alopecia (hair loss) to gastrointestinal upset, sugar gliders need adequate nutrition. They are omnivores by nature, consuming plant and animal material. Feeding live insects is always recommended, but be sure to use a nutritional booster like gut load to ensure the highest nutritional value in your pet’s live food. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also encouraged, but be sure to use high quality food for your pet to help minimize the chance of food-borne illness. In other words, if you would not eat the apple, do not feed it to your glider. Cat food is not a substitute for a proper sugar glider pelleted food. This is a common misconception that affects hedgehogs as well. Cat food is too high in fat typically and can cause intestinal disorders or urinary tract problems (Sugar Glider Care).
Calcium deficiency is a common disorder that can cause a wide variety of other diseases such as broken or fractured bones and paralysis ( Sugar Gliders R Us). Give your glider a hard-boiled egg occasionally; they love it!
Owners should watch closely for signs of constipation or diarrhea. These little guys have small intestinal tracts that are used to moving quite frequently. Backing up the line even for a little bit can be detrimental. Diarrhea can quickly cause dehydration—another ailment an owner does not want to add to the list of problems.
Allergies
Yes, sugar gliders can have allergies. If you use a fleece or cloth (fleece is recommended) bedding, then from time to time proper washing is in order to help alleviate odor. As with humans, sugar glider skin can become irritated by certain detergents. Also other allergies like mold or dust can cause your glider to lose hair, sneeze, or develop cold-like systems (discharge from eyes and nose, decreased activity, and decreased appetite).
Summary
Sugar gliders are generally healthy, happy pets that can give you around twelve years of joy if fed properly. Again, the vast array of disorders seen are caused by poor diet. Sugar gliders do not require regular vaccination. However, you should have your playful pal examined every six months by a licensed exotic veterinarian. Having shorter life span than humans, sugar gliders can develop disease a lot faster than you or I.
Sources:
Aflatoxins: Occurrence and Health Risks
Sugar Gliders R Us
Stephen Scheib - Stephen thrives on educating others about the world around them. He has worked with vets for years and has taught many subjects.
