Sugar Glider Diets

While there are a few different approaches to sugar glider diets, we recommend an appropriate fruit-based diet that should be well-balanced and varied. It should primarily consist of fresh fruits like melons, apples, pears, grapes, cherries, blueberries, tomatoes, bananas, and vegetables like carrots, leafy greens, supplemented green drops to meet their nutritional needs. Also yoghurt, cottage cheese and scrambled eggs can be offered once in a while.

Sugar gliders require a higher calcium intake compared to phosphorus to maintain proper bone development and prevent the risk of metabolic bone disease. An appropriate calcium to phosphorus ratio for sugar gliders is generally around 2:1 or 1.5:1, meaning there should be approximately twice as much calcium as phosphorus in their diet. Deviations from this ratio can lead to various health issues, including weak bones, fractures, and dental problems.

Provide a mix of calcium-rich and phosphorus-rich options.

  1. Calcium sources include leafy greens (e.g., kale, spinach, and collard greens), fruits (e.g., blackberries and kiwi), and yoghurt.

  2. Phosphorus sources include lean meats, insects, fruit (e.g., bananas, oranges, pineapple), vegetables (e.g., peas, corn, and sweet potatoes), and nuts and seeds.

Water

Sugar gliders require access to fresh, filtered, water at all times. Tap water should be avoided as it can contain chemicals such as chlorine and fluoride, and also have a high mineral content or contaminants that should negatively affect their health. At least two sources of fresh water are recommended.

Treats

Treats can be used as a training reward, a way to bond with your sugar glider, or simply as a special occasional treat to add variety to their diet. Treats should be given in moderation and should not exceed 10% of your sugar glider's overall diet.

  1. Insects: Sugar gliders are omnivorous and enjoy eating insects. Mealworms, crickets, and waxworms can be offered as a protein-rich treat. Ensure insects are gut-loaded and dusted with calcium powder before feeding.

  2. Yogurt or cottage cheese: These can be given occasionally as a source of calcium and protein. Choose plain, unsweetened varieties without any artificial additives or sweeteners.

  3. Nuts and seeds: Offer small amounts of unsalted, raw nuts like almonds or cashews, and seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. These should be given sparingly due to their high-fat content.

  4. Commercial treats: There are commercially available treats specifically made for sugar gliders like yogurt drops, or fish sticks.