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.
The sugar glider’s overall appearance and behavior should be watched for signs of illness. Generally, sugar gliders should have bright eyes, a moist nose, pink nose and gums, the ability to grip with all 4 feet, a smooth coat, and good elasticity of their gliding membranes.
Signs of illness are similar to those in other animals and include depression, inactivity, and loss of appetite or weight. Other signs that your sugar glider is not well may include watery eyes, lack of energy, red and scaly skin, sores, abnormal droppings, excessive shedding or bald patches, labored breathing, and dragging the hind legs. If you notice any of these signs, you should bring your pet to a veterinarian immediately. Sugar gliders can very quickly pass the point of recovery if they do not receive prompt medical attention.
Sugar gliders can easily become dehydrated either from a lack of drinking water or a medical condition such as vomiting or diarrhea. This can be deadly if not addressed promptly. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth and nose, lack of energy, sunken eyes, loose skin (the skin on the back will stay up after it is gently pinched), abnormal breathing, and seizures. Take the animal to a veterinarian; if needed, the veterinarian can administer fluids by injection.
X-ray images can help diagnose medical problems in sugar gliders. It is particularly difficult to detect pneumonia in animals of this size without taking x-rays. Even extremely ill sugar gliders will generally tolerate short anesthesia to allow x-rays to be obtained.
It is uncommon for owners to administer medication. If necessary, your veterinarian can advise you on the best way of giving medication to your sugar glider.
When needed, antibiotics are well tolerated by sugar gliders. Your veterinarian will be able to determine when antibiotics are necessary and will choose one based on your pet’s particular illness. Injections of drugs may be administered by veterinarians, or you may be sent home with liquid medications to administer by mouth. To help in making clinical diagnoses, blood samples may be taken from the sugar glider after being given an anesthetic.
Malnutrition is common in sugar gliders; therefore, a proper diet and supplementation ( see Diet ) are very important. In addition to providing fresh water and a proper diet daily, regularly cleaning the enclosure, nest box, and the food and water dishes will help keep your sugar glider healthy. Fresh fruit and vegetables should be promptly removed from the cage if not eaten within a few hours.