GliderCENTRAL

Before I Buy Questions

Posted By: Anonymous

Before I Buy Questions - 06/21/19 05:11 PM

Hello Everyone!

I am new to the forum and wanted to ask a few questions. I spoke to some breeders already, but my boyfriend thinks they are just saying what I want to hear so I will purchase the animal. We are looking at getting two baby females (preferably already bonded to each other). I want to get y'alls opinion on some of the things we've heard.

First, we were told that females only have a 50/50% chance of liking each other and if not, one will kill the other.

Second, my boyfriend is determined they will smell awful all the time even with regular cleaning.

Third, I was told they are very loud all the time. I know they make crabbing sounds as babies and bark too, but do they do it all the time for no reason?

Lastly, I heard from a few people you can potty train them with a lot of patience and persistence. Is that true?

I work days and he works nights so bonding won't be an issue. I own my own business and planned to wear them in a pouch at work and keep a cage in my office. I have severe insomnia so I am usually up a few days in a row and can play with them on the nights I don't sleep too. My boyfriend gets home around 3am so he would wear them around and play with them when he gets home from work.

I have done a ton of research, picked out a vet in town that has worked with gliders for years, put all the supplies in my cart for when we are ready. I just need to convince the boyfriend.

Thanks in advance!
Posted By: mariad3

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/21/19 05:36 PM

Hello and welcome!

From my experience, female-female pairs or neutered male-female pairs typically work very well. What generally leads to problems or fighting are two unneutered males living together, especially when other females are around. If you get a pair off the bat who were already living together, you probably won't have any issues. If you are planning on getting joeys, they're generally open to a new cage mate. If two gliders "hate" each other, you'll definitely know. They will ball up and fight/scream and if this were to ever happen you'll want to separate them immediately.

Sugar gliders are caged animals, so yes, they have a consistent smell to them. Females generally smell less "musty" than males. However, just because they have an odor does not mean that they will smell awful!!! I spot clean my cage ~2x per week (I wipe it down with baby wipes) and do a regular cleaning once per week and it's just fine. I change their cage set and clean their cage toys about once per month. It's important to not clean EVERYTHING at once because sugar gliders are scent-oriented animals and they will mark the cage with their scent like crazy if there isn't at least something in there that they recognize. Their cage is in my bedroom and I've never had any issues. They are messy eaters, though, so I suggest either keeping the cage a few inches from the wall or covering the back of the cage to prevent food from getting on your walls. Also, a handheld vacuum is a staple in my home to clean up around the cage every few days. Some people make "glider kitchens" (essentially they cover their food dish to try to contain the mess) but their messiness has never been enough of an issue for me to try it, so I can't tell you how well it works.

They are loud during the night. During the day when they're sleeping, you wouldn't even know they're in the cage or my shirt. During the night, they do make sounds like barking, hissing, chattering etc. and you can hear them jumping around in the cage. I'm a pretty average sleepier (not remarkably heavy or light) but it doesn't bother me and the cage is in my bedroom. I use a stealth wheel and it's surprisingly silent. I don't hear it spinning, I just hear the sound of my gliders landing on it! As far as crabbing, you will probably hear it a lot in the beginning (especially if you have joeys) when you try handling them. This should subside with time as they begin to trust you. I haven't heard my gliders who I've had for almost 3 years now crab in a very long time!

"Potty training" seems to be controversial. I wouldn't say you can potty train them, but you can predict their bathroom habits. For example, if my gliders are in my shirt where they sleep, they won't pee or poop on me. If they're hanging out on me outside of my clothes, they will pee and poop on me. Luckily their poop isn't mushy or runny, so it's very easy to clean up after them. Sometimes if it's during the day and they are tired, I can manage to get a tissue or baby wipe under them while they do their business. If it's night time, they're way too energetic and I just clean up after they go where they please, haha.

As far as bonding, it's best to use the pouch during the day when they are sleeping. Since you work during the day, that should be fine. You can also put some apple slices or halved grapes in the pouch to keep them satiated and hydrated throughout the day if they're outside of the cage. However, when your boyfriend is with them at night he shouldn't really "wear" them around in a bonding pouch because that is when they are awake and active.

Overall, sugar gliders are awesome pets! While they aren't for everyone, if you are willing to put in the time and effort to give them the care they need, it's so worth it. They really are such cool animals that are a great mix of cuddly and playful.

Something else that is important is diet. What do you plan on feeding them?
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/21/19 05:44 PM

Thank you so much for responding so quickly! The vet I spoke with suggested GlideRChow from Pocket Pets, along with GlideAMins (their vitamins for sugar gliders). I also was planning on fresh fruits as snacks/ treats to make up 20-80% of their diet depending on the age, but I know they need their protein from the chow.

Also what time do yours normally become wake up/ go to sleep?
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/21/19 06:20 PM

Sorry that last post was from me. I was having issues registering. I would register but then it would say my account didn't exist.

Another side question: what kind of wheel do you have? Do you know the brand or model?
Posted By: mariad3

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/21/19 06:45 PM

Of course I'm not a veterinarian, but I feel like I need to warn you that there is a lot of controversy about Pocket Pets both as a breeder and a business- a quick Google search should show you what other people's experiences have been like with the company. I encourage you to take a look at the forum here about diet at http://www.glidercentral.net/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/ubb/postlist/Board/98 to see what else is out there!

The time they wake up seems to vary on the season. In the summer when it gets dark later, they wake up between 9-11. During the winter months, they get up more around 8-10. They usually go to sleep around 7-8 am. If I wake up before they go to sleep, once I open the curtains or turn on the light it's bedtime for them! During the day I typically feed them mealworms as a snack and I have them sleep in my shirt for some bonding and cuddle time.

I have a stealth wheel but after a bit of searching it looks like it isn't sold anymore. I believe this is the newer version of what I have. https://www.etsy.com/listing/683948890/bundle-new-freedom-19-black-stealth?ref=sold_out-3&cns=1 it is expensive, but a good quality, safe wheel is a must. I've had mine for almost 3 years and there have been no issues. My little ones use it every night and it's very easy to clean!
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/21/19 06:49 PM

I definitely wasn't planning to purchase the animal from Pocket Pets. I want to actually go to the breeder and see the conditions of their animals. I had no idea about the issues with Pocket Pets. What other sites do you suggest that are better for supplies, etc. Also, what do you feed your gliders?

I really appreciate all your help! I'll take any and all advice and information!
Posted By: mariad3

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/21/19 07:11 PM

exoticnutrition.com is nice for toys, treats, cages, and accessories. They also sell pellet food, but I wouldn't use that as their staple diet. Also, I saw that they sell a sugar glider leash... but that really isn't good. A leash could damage the membrane they use to help them glide, and they don't like feeling restricted. Etsy also has some awesome sugar glider shops, especially for bonding pouches and cage sets!! My gliders eat the BML diet. I All of the supplies can be found at the grocery and pet store, so it's nice not having to worry about ordering online. BML involves a mix that you prepare in the blender, but it's not super time consuming because you pour it into ice cube trays and you're good for about a month. It also involves feeding fruits and vegetables each night. My babies really enjoy blueberries, cherries, apples, green beans and peas, but every glider is different! It's certainly more work than a simple pellet food, but it gives your gliders the proper nutrition and the variety they need in their diet! Once you get used to it, preparing BML takes less than 20 minutes. My gliders also love mealworms, yogurt drops and dried mango as treats smile
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/21/19 07:24 PM

All of this is amazing!! I have a few more questions since you mentioned the info from Pocket Pets isn't the most reliable. I've seen a lot of conflicting arguments about bonding. Some say hold them ASAP some say wait until they walk on your hand on their own... What did you do?

Also what about hanging pouches vs fleece near a heat rock for babies?

Sorry I have so many questions!!!
Posted By: mariad3

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/21/19 07:58 PM

I personally waited for them to come onto my hand on their own, as I did not want them to associate my hand with feeling scared. I would hold their pouch with them inside of it and speak softly to them. I rubbed fleece squares with my scent on them and put it in their nesting pouch- I still do that to this day when I change their pouch sets! Something that takes practice (at least it did for me, lol) is not being jumpy when they crab at you. It's loud and it startles you but I would try to be as still as possible. Before I got them, I asked the breeder what their favorite treats were and made sure to buy them before bringing them home. I would offer them a treat (from a bit of a distance) and if they crabbed at me, I would just keep my hand there and not draw it away until they realized that my hand was nothing to be afraid of, but instead it was something that brought them a yummy treat! For bonding time, a pop-up tent works wonders. Bring your phone, laptop, a book or whatever and just sit in there. Let the gliders come out of their pouch and explore at their own pace and at their own will. They will learn that climbing on you is fun for them and that you're not so scary after all! Being patient is so, so important.

I never used a heat rock, nor would I recommend it. Gliders shouldn't need a heat rock if they are at an appropriate age to go to their new home. They could also chew on the cord and hurt themselves. None of my gliders are particularly "chewy" but I would never risk it. I use hanging pouches with one or two fleece squares in it! I also had nesting boxes with several fleece squares in them for a short while, but mine prefer the hanging pouches.

Also, if you have trouble getting them into a bonding pouch you can try hanging the bonding pouch open in the cage so that they're sleeping in it already when you want to take it out. Some gliders don't like bonding pouches (cough cough- one of mine hates zippers and feeling trapped hahaha) and they may try to struggle their way out. If this happens, you can try wearing two shirts and tucking them in, then placing the nesting pouch in between the two shirts. That way, your gliders are in a pouch they like, they can explore your scent, and they're not out in the open to get into danger while you're still working on trusting each other!
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/21/19 08:03 PM

Awesome. I'm going to go home and do more research! I will probably have more questions in the morning!

Thank you again for everything!!
Posted By: mariad3

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/21/19 08:25 PM

No problem, feel free to reach out smile
Posted By: Feather

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/22/19 04:14 AM

Hi and Welcome to GliderCENTRAL!!

You have been given some good advice.

As far as diets go, in my opinion the best one out there is Critterlove. You can learn more about Critterlove at Critterlove.com. There is Critterlove Plus where you add your own eggs, bee pollen and honey to the powder with water or Critterlove Complete which has the honey, bee pollen and eggs all in there in powder form you just add water.

With one of those staples you feed one of the five salad mixtures, with only two gliders I suggest cutting the salad mixtures in half. You rotate through them.

I am not sure why your having problems with the registration process. Hopefully it will work for you soon, so you can get full use of the forum.
Posted By: Ladymagyver

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/22/19 07:01 PM

:welcomegc: wave

I also use the Critterlove diet.

Are they smelly? Depends on how sensitive you are to smell. They are scent oriented, so they do mark their territory and will over mark if you keep their cage too clean. They also overmark when they feel threatened or their territory is threatened.

As far as strong urine smell, no. If you do smell strong urine, a vet visit is in order.

Speaking of vets, it's a good idea to have a vet fund tucked away. When they get sick, I can get costly sometimes. I have 3 and try to keep a fund of about$1500 - $2000. I'd rather be safe than sorry. In almost 5 years, Ive spent about $1500. That includes an annual check up, with fecals and urine test, a UTI, constipation, vomiting, 1 neuter, and a dominance wound. All with follow up...
Posted By: Hutch

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/23/19 07:39 AM

You've received many great answers, but I thought I would toss my $0.04 into the mix. From my four gliders who I've raised since they were 9 weeks old, I have experienced four very different personalities. Two females (related) and two males (not related to each other or the females), 1 platinum, 1 WFB, 1 BB, & 1 classic, all OOP within seven days of each other. I've also been reading everything I could since roughly six months before I took the plunge.

Question 1: Females only being 50/50 on getting along?
From mine & everything I've read... this is not a thing. Intact males seem to be more prone to fighting for dominance, but with proper & slow introductions, it seems to be manageable. Outside of that, or in other words amongst neutered males & females, there appears to be no difference that I've been able to track from experience or information available.

Question 2: Always smell awful?
All animals have a scent (as do most people), but awful? As long as I do some basics to take care of the cage, there isn't anymore smell than having any other pet I've owned (& I've owned quite a variety in my time). There have been times when life got REALLY crazy & I went several weeks between changing the fleece furniture or wiping the cage, & only then did I notice something when I came home that there were 'critters' in the house. Otherwise, I notice cats & large dogs more than my house or a couple I visited that had gliders. My males are neutered, I understand that helps.

Question 3: Loud all the time?
Short version: Nope.
Long version: They sleep during the day. Maybe the occasional chirping, popping, or a quick bark. At night, most of the time I can just hear them playing (jumping around, maybe some chirps). It isn't bad at all. Yes, mine will bark, particularly Gwynevere... it can get surprisingly loud (not kidding). That said, it really isn't too common with mine, maybe a night or two a week in phases. It seems to help that we have a routine down that lets them know when I'm going away for the evening... most of the time. Still, I sleep through almost everything they do, even when I've kept them in my bedroom while traveling. Except Gywn's barking...

Question 4: Potty training?
I've heard some people have managed this. I've been trying for three years now... I'm no closer to it since when I started. I swear both Arthur & Gywn do it on purpose. Gywn to claim me & Arthur because he never stops. The other two fuzzbutts aren't bad about it at all, may the occasional small puddle or pellet to clean up after them.

Question 5: Wake times?
Mine vary a little with the season & personality. In general, I can expect activity around sunset, whatever time that happens. Merlin seems to be a little less dependant on the sun, getting up pretty consistently between 1800hrs (winter) & 2000 (summer). On the other hand, Arthur won't get his royal hiney out of the pouch if the sun it remotely near the horizon. The girls vary somewhere between the two with Gywn being a little more consistent than Morgana. All of them will play for a while, then nap, play again with another nap, etc.

Question 6: What wheel?
There are several great ones out there. I personally have two Raptor wheels: a larger, cage-mounted one; & a smaller, stand-mounted one. I love them! I've heard great things about the Stealth wheels & a few others that you can read about on this site.

Question 7: Sources other than pocket pets?
I got my gliders from thepetglider.com (TPG) & if I was to purchase some more I'd contact that breeder again. It was very nice purchasing for her, especially when I was living overseas. For other items like accessories, Sun Coast Suger Gliders, Critterlove, TPG, & a few members here all have a lot of good resources, supplies, & necessities.

Question 8: What do you feed?
This isn't one you directly asked, but was asked of you & mentioned. I currently feed Critterlove Complete & mine love it. Previously I fed them following the Suncoast Diet & they were healthy on it. I occasionally fall back on it if life gets crazy since there is less prep time, but I prefer giving them the Critterlove since it has been well tested. (& really, with a little prep, it isn't that bad to serve.)

Question 9: When to hold?
The best answer I can offer is: Do not force it. Move slow, encourage them, but let them show interest. I'll be the first to admit that I didn't take this route completely & it worked, but not without some setbacks along the way. Also, mine made me a little paranoid at the beginning which led to my initial faster moves. Looking back, I feel we all would have been better served if I had taken a couple of days for them to recover from their trip to me before interacting beyond the most basic levels. That doesn't mean ignore them, but you can interact in less direct ways such as talking at them & letting them see you near the cage in a less-threatening way. Bribery (aka treats) help.

Question 10: Heat rocks?
No. Joeys ready to leave the parents do not need it, so heat rocks only add risk without any practical reward.

--------------------------------------

I think that covers everything that you've asked above & contributes to the great answers you've already been provided. In all, I really have to say that each glider seems to have its very own, distinct personality. At least mine do. I cannot follow the same 'rules' when dealing with any one of them or expect the same response to anything I do. If you think I'm joking, I invite you to read through the on-going blogging of my furballs' antics; I've tracked them from their arrival on this site; the first thread is linked in my signature block. There are several others who've done similar things. These threads give an idea of what life with these gliders is like.

I can honestly say they are a big part of my remaining sanity & wouldn't trade mine for anything.
Posted By: Ladymagyver

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/23/19 08:25 AM

Yep, I agree strongly with Hutch.

Bonding is a time and patience thing. As long as everyone is on board with having gliders, you'll be fine. Otherwise the one who doesn't agree in having them will always find fault.

They are a long time commitment that requires a lot of your time. We've had 4 years, 9 months and 18 days... (Well, 17 days and 5 hours by the time of this post). With no regrets. Hubby and I both take care of them and we were on board 100% from the beginning. We are older, and our kids are grown up with 14 grandkids. No other pets.

We make some of our decisions based on our gliders. They go where we go. We travel constantly with them. Our newest Stewie (neutered) struggles with change, but he adapts quickly in a few days. He has to mark everything, but other than I know where he's been, it really doesn't smell. A bit of a musk scent would be the best way to describe it. Or maybe I'm used to it. He also farts when he's nervous...
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/25/19 06:11 PM

You guys are AMAZING. I just placed my order for the cages and supplies today. Now I am looking into breeders. A lot of the pages I am coming across are inactive. I am going to look into the pet glider so thank you for that suggestion. You guys are so knowledgable and welcoming and I really appreciate it. I can't thank you all enough!!!
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/28/19 04:05 AM

Hey guys! Me again... So I got my cage all put together and I would love some input on how you guys set yours up.

First off, do you guys put the food and water toward the top or the bottom of the cage.

Second, I feel like I am stuck between being afraid of having too much stuff in the cage or not enough. What are some cage must-haves that you guys suggest? Right now its looking pretty plain. I have some shelving and ladders that came with the cage, a water bottle, food dish, hanging pouch, and a wheel.

Third, if anyone has suggestions on where to get quality toys/ enrichment stuff that isn't crazy expensive let me know!

Thank you!!!
Posted By: Hutch

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/28/19 04:29 AM

I keep a minimum of two water sources & two snack dishes (dry food) in their cage all the time. One if medium-high (about 3/4 of the way up from the bottom) while the other is medium-low (about 1/3 up from the bottom). Dinner gets split between two & three dishes that I disperse around the cage as I feel like it.

It is very possible to have too much & too little, but it isn't like there is a magic point of perfection. The furballs like to leap & jump, & need room to do so, but also need enough furniture & toys to keep entertained. I'd recommend a couple of pouches, a couple corner-hammocks up high, & maybe two other hammocks or perches spread around (depending on the size of your cage). At least 1 wheel, a dangling rope/climbing something, & a one or two enrichment-type toys (again, depending on size).

In general, enrichment toys do not need to be elaborate... just something to make them think or work. It could be as simple as hiding some treats in a breath mint can or tin. You can easily make some if you're so inclined. Check-out the 'Housing & Accessories' section of the forum & its sub-forums. Also, YouTube has a bunch of how-to videos.

As far as sources: Sun Coast Sugar Gliders, Critter Love, TPG, Etsy, Up-till-Dawn, & even Amazon has stuff. Also, check out the classified area at the bottom of the forum; several people who create stuff post there.

Hope that helps!
Posted By: Anonymous

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/28/19 07:31 AM

Thanks Hutch!

What dry food do you use? All the food I've seen says you need to add water. I'll definitely check out those shops online and the other forums! I'm really excited we got in contact with a breeder a few hours away from us. She has two girls that will be ready for a new home in about 8 weeks. We are planning a trip to meet them and I couldn't be more excited. I'm trying to get as much ready as I can.

What are your thoughts on Instant HPW from ExoticNutrition?
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/28/19 02:59 PM

I was finally able to register my account!

Side question: I really want to get some trees for our living room for our gliders to play on. I've seen a few lists of GlideSafe house plants, but I either don't see trees on the lists (only small plants) or the trees listed aren't at a local store and have to be purchased online. Does anyone know of any common indoor trees that are GliderSafe?

Thanks guys! Sorry again for all my questions!!
Posted By: Ladymagyver

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/28/19 04:08 PM

On safe trees, I would go with a fake one. If they mess on it, just take outside and hose off.

As far as toys go, bangle bracelets for kids, army men, barrel of monkeys can be hung throughout, tictac boxes are great for foraging, a toy box can a small tray or plastic basket, milk rings that are split work great too. You can do a lot with very little $. Dollar tree is my favorite place to shop.

I use Happy glider pellets from pet-pro.com

Please stay away from exotic nutrition food. Their ingredient list is inaccurate and inconsistent. Many gliders have gotten sick from their food products.
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/28/19 05:36 PM

Got it. I will stay away from them! Yea I was kind of thinking I would have to go with the fake trees. Thanks for the advice!
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/28/19 06:28 PM

As far as household hazards are concerned. I read that the fumes from non-stick pans are toxic. Is that just when someone is cooking or does it make the food toxic to the glider too? Also, any idea on how far those fumes travel or should we just toss out all the non-stick pans?

Another side note, do you guys take your gliders for annual vet checkups or just when you think they may be sick?

Sorry if these are stupid questions!
Posted By: Ladymagyver

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/28/19 09:33 PM

Originally Posted by clreilly
As far as household hazards are concerned. I read that the fumes from non-stick pans are toxic. Is that just when someone is cooking or does it make the food toxic to the glider too? Also, any idea on how far those fumes travel or should we just toss out all the non-stick pans?

Another side note, do you guys take your gliders for annual vet checkups or just when you think they may be sick?

Sorry if these are stupid questions!



I do annual check ups.

I use stainless steel pans at home and I have non-stick pots in the RV. I don't ever use the non-stick on high heat. I do scrambled eggs for them in a copper coated fry pan in the RV and at home. I have no idea how far the fumes travel, but I believe it's only on high heat.
Posted By: Xeno

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/29/19 02:46 AM

My gliders also love feathers to chew on and rip up. One of their favorites.

Plastic straws that have been through a pencil sharpener are also fun. I also put in safe fake leaves, sometimes on fake vines. They like to chew them off and play with them. They sometimes drag them into the pouch too.
Posted By: Feather

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/29/19 03:33 AM

As far as diet for the gliders, Critterlove is one of the best out there.
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/29/19 04:10 AM

I'm actually really disappointed. I found out Critter Love is located in Fruit Cove which is right near where I live in Jacksonville. The part that I am disappointed about is I just found out they are in the process of moving to Texas. I did speak to someone and I am going to set up an appointment to meet with them and meet their gliders next week. Right now we are looking at different breeders. I found one with two beautiful baby girls that will be ready to go home in about 8 weeks, but they are pretty expensive so we are still looking around. I am going to go see those babies in the next few weeks. That breeder is three and a half hours away from me.

I know I am going to be looking at their environment when I go because I want to make sure I am buying from someone reputable, but is there anything specific I should look out for in regard to the gliders? Personality, fur, the diet that sort of thing? Any warning signs I should look out for?
Posted By: Hutch

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/29/19 04:22 AM

Another series of questions deserves another series of answers, hehe:

1. What dry food do I feed?
For a long time, I fed Suncoast's Wholesome Balance. More recently, I've switched to the Critter Love Fruity Kibble after my furbrains basically inhaled a sample Peggy included in an order of Critter Love Complete. To be clear, the dry food is just a 'side' that I leave in their cage all day long if they wish to snack (or finish dinner & are still peckish). The main staple I feed is the Critter Love complete & rotate through the associated 'salads.'

2. Breeder nearby. (INFO)
CONGRATZ! & good luck!!

3. Exotic Nutrition?
So, I've not heard anything good from those who've looked into it. I did check out the bottle when I first came back to the states to read what they said about themselves. Basically, they said very little & what they did list was preservatives & added artificial sweeteners. Personally, I'll pass on giving mine that stuff. There are plenty of diets out there that avoid those chemicals. Even treat can be 'healthy.' Look at things like dried fruit or unseasoned/raw nuts. (Mine would commit murder if it meant a pine nut...) Unsweetened Yogurt Drops seem to be Sugar Glider crack: Highly addictive & they'll do almost anything for their next fix (except pass up a pine nut).

4. Trees?
If you buy it, they will climb & pee on it. Not quite the Pot of Dreams, but something to keep in mind when selecting. Outside of the fact mine like to chew on Eucalyptus & Apple branches, I honestly don't know what would be good or bad for gliders. I agree with Dawn, fake would be easier to maintain.

5. Household Hazards?
The pan fumes is a new one on me. I've never noticed any effect with any pet I've had despite using non-stick Teflon most of my adult life. Then again, I rarely have pets in the kitchen. My personal take: Use common sense of what causes fumes or leaves residue, keep in mind their small bodies & lungs, but don't overthink it. For example, I won't have mine in the same room I clean my guns or brass cases in due to the significant fumes, or in the areas I use lubricant or gunpower since it is so hard to clean it all up. I will let them play in other areas I just cleaned because I'm conservative with chemicals & rinse it away.

6. Vet visits?
At a minimum, I do annual check-ups.

7. Feathers (INFO)
I will second feathers & straws as toys... just don't expect them to last long wink Also try lightly knotting cord.

------------------------------------------------------

Hope all of that helps smile I doubt anyone here minds the questions (I sure don't) so please do not feel the need to apologize for asking them. We're all here to communicate with the community & help each other out for the best experience of slave & gliders.
Posted By: Feather

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 06/29/19 04:01 PM

Just a FYI for you and Hutch. The kibble that Critterlove is selling is Happy Glider by PetPro. The best on the market for kibble in my opinion.
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/02/19 03:26 PM

Thanks! More questions ahead!!

I have been looking through breeders like crazy and I am seeing gliders from $199-$1500. I know color will make a difference in price but even some with similar colors that look identical the price range can be crazy. Any info on this? Are they really worth that much or are we being scammed? We just want happy/healthy babies but don't want to be scammed in the process.

Next, one of the breeders I spoke with said that a neutered male loses the chest gland and bald spot. Is that true?

Thanks again you wonderful people!
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/02/19 03:31 PM

I also read females get loud and agitated when in heat. Is there any truth to that?
Posted By: Xeno

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/02/19 07:22 PM

Yes, you can usually identify a neutered male by not having a bald sport. I would check age on those gliders. Some may be retired breeders. That influences price a lot. There is also variation amongst genetic lines. Some cost more because if they were used for breeding they are more likely to get a desired color or give a variety if paired with another glider. Other posters may have more reasons for price differences.

When my girls are in heat they are more crabby. Not usually with me but they crab and hiss at the boys. The boys are neutered but I think they were neutered a little late because they can be randy. Especially Elric who thinks he is Casanova. They verbally bicker more and there can be some crabbing, hissing, and chasing before mating but they have never hurt each other. The boys do bite the top of the head while mating but it has never broken the skin yet and the girl is not upset by it and just waits at that point. Arwen was in heat last night and I pulled her out to ride on me to give her a break from Elric’s wooing. No one was hurt but she looked tired. Not sure how different girls in heat are with no boys around, no experience there.

I tried to get a picture of Elric mounted behind and going at it hard with Arwen while Arwen was just slowly eating a piece of salad looking completely uninterested and bored. One of the funniest things I have seen. Sadly by the time I got my phone they were done.
Posted By: mariad3

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/02/19 07:24 PM

I don’t have too much insight about the prices of the gliders, as mine were all less than $300 (I have two standard greys and a white face), but I believe lineage has an impact on pricing. My male’s hair grew back on his head once he got neutered. One of my two females tends to chatter and bark more when in heat. As far as agitation goes, I don’t notice much of a change!
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/02/19 07:34 PM

Thanks guys! I feel like the more I research, the more questions I have. I was also seeing a lot of information saying that females tend to be shyer and males tend to bond quicker? I know every animal is different, but have either of you noticed this to be true? We were so set on girls but the breeder said "Actually once they are neutered they are just like females with one exception. They don’t go into heat." Also, any info on what age is safe to neuter if we do go the boy route?
Posted By: Xeno

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/02/19 08:12 PM

My bravest glider is female. I have probably bonded best with Elric and Arwen, so one of the boys and one of the girls. Eilonwy used to be real shy but I think she had a traumatic introduction to her home (fight with Dobby). She seems to be getting over it and is getting more adventurous and also has decided that my deodorant-smelling underarms would make a great snack. We are working on that. Dobby is the most standoffish. He likes and trusts me so sort of bonded but he prefers to do his own thing.

I think you would be fine going either way or with one of each. It is more about the individual glider then it is the gender.
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/02/19 08:19 PM

Ok got it. I posted this question farther up, but I think it got lost in all my other questions...lol

When I go to a breeder, I know I am going to be looking at their environment because I want to make sure I am buying from someone reputable, but is there anything specific I should look out for in regard to the gliders? Personality, fur, the diet that sort of thing? Any warning signs I should look out for?

Any specific things that would give me hints as to what their personality is like?
Posted By: Xeno

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/02/19 09:15 PM

Glider personalities are hard to read. Their faces do not have much expression. The best ways to read mood are stance, ears, and tail. If you can visit the breeder look for a glider that is comfortable being handled (not necessarily held, most do not like being held), was raised in a clean environment, and ask about its activity level. I would try to get a pair of gliders or a colony that have been living together already. At most breeders that means siblings. If they are already comfortable with each other and have been for some time it is a smoother transition to their new home and you do not have to worry about introductions including the possibility of rejection. I do not think coloration has any bearing on personality. If the glider nips at you a little that is not always a bad sign. If they attack and bite down hard that probably is (unless you smell heavily of something). I do not know a ton about it. I ordered my gliders from the Pet Glider based on photos and a phone conversation and had them flown to me. I am happy with all four.

Mostly handling them I would look for health issues. Are they normal sized? Eyes, nose, and ears clear without discharge. Ask if there are health problems in the litter. Hands feces can be a bad sign. For the most part though you are rolling the dice and hoping for the best.
Posted By: Hutch

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/02/19 10:38 PM

It depends on a lot of things, including linage (like probably carrying a rare gene even if not showing), female for breeding, age... so, in general, I would say you're probably not being scammed by a reputable breeder. Shop around & see what others are charging & what you get for that price. I think, outside of small/home operations or questionable breeders, you'll see a reasonable level of price stability.
Posted By: Xeno

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/02/19 11:15 PM

I did not play more then $500 for any of my gliders and intentionally got a variety of colorations because I have a hard time telling similar things apart. I also wanted a trio litter or two pairs of siblings (got the latter). I would avoid super expensive ones. They are probably priced like that for breeding.
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/03/19 03:12 AM

Thank guys! What are your thoughts on this?

I just got off the phone with yet another breeder. She said that Critter Love is bad and causes periodontal disease. I really liked the simplicity of Critter Love. She gave me some recipe called the Highland Sugar Glider Diet:

Ingredients:
2 jars 48 oz. no sugar added applesauce
3 Cups full fat yogurt (NOTE: You can substitute freshly fermented 24-hour Kefir or your own fermented probiotic yogurt)
3 Cups quick cook plain oatmeal
6 ea. chopped boiled egg (no shell)
2 1/2 Cups chopped boiled chicken
1 Tbsp flaxseed oil
2 Tbsp Soybean oil (Wesson or other soybean cooking oil)
1/2 tsp Vionate Vitamin and Mineral powder
1 tsp Calcium Carbonate powder
2 tsp Taurine powder
10 drops Vitamin E oil equaling 200 IU – you can use 1 capsule of 200 IU Vitamin E per batch


Note: If you use yogurt instead of kefir you will need to thin the batch with yogurt drink , apple juice or bolthouse green juice(I add a little water to thin out green juice) to the desired consistency.
1-2 Tbsp of the above mixture served with 1 tsp sweet peas (shelled), 1 tsp mixed chopped fruits (optional), and 1 tsp mixed, chopped vegetables.
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/03/19 03:26 AM

Also on a total side note: Is there any way to search TPG by OOP date? I'm having some issues with the search filters.
Posted By: Xeno

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/03/19 07:10 AM

Heard good things about that diet but it would be too time consuming and a pain too collect all the ingredients for me to make. If you want to use it though it looks good. Maybe a bit heavy on protein. I have never heard of critter love being linked to tooth problems though.

TPG can be hard to navigate. It is where I got mine. I looked through every entry when I was shopping though. Need to stay away. Looking at it makes me want another pair. Bad Xeno! Four is plenty!
Posted By: mariad3

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/03/19 11:38 AM

Something that I’m sure you’ve noticed by now is that there is not one perfect diet out there for sugar gliders. I give mine BML because it is an established diet with proper Ca:P ratios, allows variety of fruits and veggies, it’s what my suggies came to me already eating, and it wasn’t too complicated for me to prepare. There are people who don’t like BML because the vitamin K supplement used is synthetic and considered unsafe for human consumption (at what concentration, I’m not sure), but it is widely used in pet supplements and food. As far as critterlove, I have heard very good things and again, it is an established diet. If you want to continue with the highland, that is also a good diet, but obviously very time consuming and requires a lot of ingredients. At the end of the day, choose a diet that works for you and your suggies!
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/03/19 12:45 PM

You guys are rockstars!! We are waiting on the last few packages of random goodies to come in and we will have everything. In the meantime, we are just shopping around. I feel like a mother nesting the house. I'm running around trying to make sure everything is perfect and glider proofed and ready. I am so close to having my babies home!!!
Posted By: KarenE

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/03/19 03:11 PM

I have found that most who claim Critterlove is bad are those who have a personal agenda against the creator or some other reason they simply don't like the diet, but it is rarely based on fact. If I were you, I would not listen to idle gossip about any proven/tested diet. Critterlove is one of a very very few who meet those qualifications.

Also, any breeder who has a website, may be named and discussed here according to our rules. That may help you decide who you might want to purchase your gliders from.

We would probably be able to give you some insight into the ones you are considering IF they have been around awhile and are reputable. We are more than willing to help you out.
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/03/19 05:44 PM

That would be really helpful! Thank you!

KarenE- does a Facebook page count as a website?


I am talking to a breeder right now (no website) and she told me Hartland Gliders is a mill breeder. Is this true? I also spoke to the breeder at Oceanfront Sugar Gliders. She was the one who told me Critterlove is bad.

I looked into the sites that came up when you click "breeder" in the forum and a lot of the websites are inactive. Do you guys have anyone you would recommend other than TPG? I just want to look at a few options.

smile
Posted By: KarenE

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/03/19 06:27 PM

I highly recommend Critterlove Sugar Gliders who should be close to you, however, soon she will be moving her family and business to Texas, so you should contact her very soon if you have not already. Her name is Peggy, and she is a wonderful breeder/person. I have know her personally for many years.

Yes, I would consider a facebook page a counting.

The name Hhartland Gliders sounds familiar, however, I don't really know anything about her. I will try to get some information on Oceanfront Sugar Gliders. Do not know why she would say that about Critterlove.

Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/03/19 06:58 PM

I have already reached out to Critterlove. I am going to make an appointment when she gets back on the 12th.

Other breeders I have chatted with who have FB pages are:

Sugar Glider Lover's
The Little Sugar Shack
Ab Fab Pet
Mystical Sugar Gliders
Enchanted Gliders
Jenny's Suggies
Posted By: Hutch

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/03/19 09:51 PM

Critter love has been well tested by an vet nutritionist. You can find the results on the site (somewhere).

Mine have been healthy & happy with Critter Love. I seriously question what the breeder who said it was bad was getting their information.
Posted By: Xeno

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/04/19 09:14 PM

My whole colony wishes you luck.

[Linked Image]
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/05/19 03:46 PM

WE FOUND OUR BABIES!!

I have been speaking with a breeder in West Virginia and she is fabulous. She sent me pictures of her breeding room and I really like her. She is driving down south and will be passing right through Jacksonville in August. So we will have our babies in August!!! We are so excited!! The boy is a mosaic and the girl is a plat. A picture of the boy is attached. It would only allow me to attach one picture.

Attached picture Boy 1.JPG
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/05/19 03:47 PM

Here is the girl. We are still working on names...

Attached picture Girl 1.JPG
Posted By: Hutch

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/06/19 03:34 AM

Adorable.
Posted By: Xeno

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/06/19 05:24 AM

My platinum and mosaic are my two most adventurous gliders. I hope yours fluster, infuriate, and charm you as much as mine do.

The fun little adventures never stop. Just a few minutes ago I got all four climbing on me for the end of playtime. I went into the closet and turned on the light. This gets them to calm down and then I hold up a pouch. They know this means time to go home and want out of the light so they dive right in but I could only find three and I knew I felt four of them crawling on me. I figured she might have jumped so I searched the floor and everywhere else. Then I thought I might have been mistaken about getting them all and searched the whole play area and could not find her.

Then I felt some rustling on my thigh and looked down to see her poking her head out.

[Linked Image]

Clever girl climbed in where I could not feel her weight or her claws.


Best of luck to you. It is a lot of work but moments like these make up for it.
Posted By: Ladymagyver

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/06/19 10:39 AM

I love all the pics!!!!!!
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/06/19 07:58 PM

Thanks, everyone! I am both nervous and excited. I want them to have the best life. I definitely have plenty of bonding time scheduled. Can wait to upload pics when we get them home!
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/09/19 02:01 AM

Hey guys, me again.. So I need help with names for the boy. We are naming the girl Misha and I have no idea what to do for the boy. Any thoughts? We are looking at Heros of the Storm names. GO!
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/10/19 06:19 PM

We settled on Misha and Genji! ETA mid-August.
Posted By: Kansaslady

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 07/27/19 06:46 PM


I love my babies my babies don’t hardly smell at all if you have their diets right, I use organic baby food in pouches veggie and fruit ones they love it I also feed fresh food also I do not depend on pellets I have the pellets in cage at all times
They do bark and hiss lol it’s cute my husband has really enjoys them we do hear them at night sometimes
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 08/19/19 03:49 PM

WE GOT OUR BABIES!!!

Question though. They keep trying to eat our fingers. I washed with Dawn and used scent-free wipes but it doesn't make a difference. Genji has no fear and will come to my hand, sniff it, jump on and off it like a platform, and bite the crap out of my fingers. I make the "tsk" noise but it doesn't seem to phase him. I stay calm and don't jerk my hand when he bites cause it doesn't hurt that bad and I don't want to scare him, but he's drawing blood. It doesn't seem aggressive either. Almost like he's testing me. Any ideas?

Attached picture Genji Eating Me.jpg
Posted By: Ladymagyver

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 08/19/19 04:06 PM

Sometimes you have to watch their body language. It's good that you are not flinching. When they get too nosey about your skin, push them away. If/when they come back have a small toy ready (like a army man, barrel of monkey, straw) and let them bite that.
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 08/19/19 04:36 PM

Ok, I'll try that. His body language isn't aggressive at all. He seems more curious than anything. The girl does it too but she is a little more shy so she only does it through the cage. She won't walk up to our hands when we put them in the cage like the boy does.

Attached picture Babies.jpg
Posted By: Xeno

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 08/19/19 04:55 PM

I find distraction works best but one of my girls still tries to chew on any seam she can find in my clothing. It is not aggressive. Just what she does. I try to give her a toy. For fingers I would recommend keeping your hand in a fist when interacting at first when possible. Makes it harder for them to bite and, in my experience, more likely for them to crawl on and from there it is a short jump to running down your arm and hanging out on your shoulder.
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 08/19/19 06:31 PM

Thanks, I tried the fist and he went straight for the knuckles.
Posted By: Hutch

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 08/19/19 11:59 PM

If tskk'ing doesn't work, blowing on their face or gently pushing their face away should give a clue. You're trying to simulate what they do to each other when being unpleasant.
Posted By: Xeno

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 08/20/19 12:38 AM

Originally Posted by clreilly
Thanks, I tried the fist and he went straight for the knuckles.


Yeah, one of my gliders still does that. As said, blowing on their face or back sometimes works. My one remaining skin biter is best held off with distractions, air, and an occasional tap on the nose to tell him to stop. The rest almost never bite except for my clothing. I think they are trying to groom me because they do that on my skin but they can’t get the denim of my jeans or the seams of my shirts off and wow, they sure try.

When he comes at you maybe try giving a treat with other hand or put a strong smelling treat on your hand of fist. That distracts them a bit and they usually only bite down on the treat.

They also just might need more bonding time to get used to your smell. Bonding pouches during the day help with that along with blankets with your scent.
Posted By: clreilly

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 08/20/19 10:05 PM

Thanks! We did tent time yesterday for the first time. That was really fun... almost no bites. Our boy was being a little too brave trying to glide and failed a few times. I am trying so hard not to rush the bonding process, but I want to hold them and snuggle them 24/7. I literally watched them from 5pm-3am yesterday. I'm obsessed. They don't seem to be afraid of us at all and they only crab when we wake them up from taking the pouch out of the cage. Does petting them when they're sleeping count as bonding or not since they're asleep?
Posted By: Ladymagyver

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 08/21/19 02:03 PM

Originally Posted by clreilly
Thanks! More questions ahead!!

I have been looking through breeders like crazy and I am seeing gliders from $199-$1500. I know color will make a difference in price but even some with similar colors that look identical the price range can be crazy. Any info on this? Are they really worth that much or are we being scammed? We just want happy/healthy babies but don't want to be scammed in the process.

Next, one of the breeders I spoke with said that a neutered male loses the chest gland and bald spot. Is that true?

Thanks again you wonderful people!


Sorry this is so long, but...

There is so much more to gliders than color. Many breeders have the same end goal in mind. Health and good temperament. And then colors. My 3 are a good example.

Fiona, my first came from a broker like pocket pets. She is a standard grey, great temperament, it took about 2 weeks to Bond, but she's petite. I gave $250 for her, a small cage, a small bag of mazzuri pellets, instructions on how to make BML diet, and poorly made bonding pouch and sleeping pouch.

Dot (standard grey and she's big). came from an inbred colony that went out of control. She had a bad temperament (still does from time to time). It took 3 months to even put my hand in the cage without being attacked, 6 months to get her to stop drawing blood, and 9 months to start bonding. She barley tolerates being held during the day. I got her for $75 from Craig's list.

Stewie, (mosaic) well he's a nut. He has a great temperament, doesn't bite hard (more like a medium pinch when he gets his nails clipped), he is a big boy, neutered. He's extremely hyper, but really sweet. He doesn't like to be held at all, but loves to hang out on your shoulders, be petted, jump, glide, run, sniff, explore, and he comes out of most hiding spots when I call him. He has taught the girls how to play together and really livened it up. He loves Fiona and teases Dot (she's a grump). I got him from Feather and when all was said and done, I paid what mosaics go for neutered. He is a great example of a breeder who cares how their Joey's turn out when it comes temperament and health.

They all know their names. Fiona and Dot are 5 years old. Stewie is 1 yr 4 months old.

In 5 years, 4 cages, 4 wheels, 3 treadmills, fleece to make my own cage sets, toys and toy parts, dishes, a kitchen, waterers, numerous vet visits for well checks and fecals (annually), a UTI, and 1 dominance wound, many follow ups, an upset tummy, neuter follow up, and cost of the gliders total about $5500( this doesn't include their diet staple, fresh vegs , mealworm farm, or treats). I have a vet fund of $500 per glider at the standby at all times...

You will get pooped on, peed on, scent marked(doesn't really smell) face hugged, and bit a lot.

Then there is clipping nails... 5 on each front paw, and 2 on each foot(I didn't count the grooming nails. They only need clipped once a year if at all).

As far as males loosing their scent glands, it's a blessing in disguise. Because they can really mark up everything to a real stink when they smell a female in heat if they can't get to her. Even having 2 unneutered males can mark a lot.

We normally don't let the threads get this long under "Help I'm new." Topic. It's really for an introduction, and quick questions where we will steer you to ask questions under the appropriate topic. That way more members will join in on the discussion, and new members can look up particular topics to read and research what others have experienced and done. All the information posted above will be lost and impossible to find for other members in the future(on specific topics). If you have a question about which topic to use, you can post where you think it goes and we can move it if necessary. You can ask as many questions as you like using each topic listed. We love to answer your questions, but there are more experts who usually look under individual topics. We are really looking forward to helping you and sharing in your glider experience!

Posted By: KarenE

Re: Before I Buy Questions - 08/21/19 02:43 PM

Originally Posted by Ladymagyver
We normally don't let the threads get this long under "Help I'm new." Topic. It's really for an introduction, and quick questions where we will steer you to ask questions under the appropriate topic. That way more members will join in on the discussion, and new members can look up particular topics to read and research what others have experienced and done. All the information posted above will be lost and impossible to find for other members in the future(on specific topics). If you have a question about which topic to use, you can post where you think it goes and we can move it if necessary. You can ask as many questions as you like using each topic listed. We love to answer your questions, but there are more experts who usually look under individual topics. We are really looking forward to helping you and sharing in your glider experience!


clreilly, I am going to lock this thread now. Please open new threads in the appropriate forums in our Glider Care Section of the board.

If you have any problems or questions about posting in any area of the board, please ask me or Ladymagyver. We will be happy to help.

We so look forward to answering all your questions and hearing about your journey with your little ones.
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