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Joyce Torelli - Broker, Real Estate Consultant, ERA Real Estate Phone: (508) 380-5229
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What you should know about keeping sugar gliders as pets

by Joyce Torelli - Broker, Real Estate Consultant 04/14/2025

For those who want an exotic pocket-sized animal companion, many would-be pet owners consider getting sugar gliders as pets. These tiny marsupials are native to Australia and Indonesia, and are similar in appearance to gray squirrels.

While sugar gliders are adorable and playful animals, they cannot be truly domesticated like dogs or cats. As with all wild animals, there are many things to think about before choosing one as a pet.

Is it legal to own a sugar glider as a pet?

If you’re interested in owning a sugar glider or any exotic pet, the first thing you need to do is determine if it’s legal where you live. Sugar gliders are illegal to keep as pets in multiple states including Hawaii, Alaska and California. If not banned at the state-level, there may still be county or city regulations prohibiting their ownership.

Sugar glider diet

One major challenge in keeping a pet sugar glider is proper nutrition. These critters need a balanced diet most commercial pellet food can’t provide. Therefore, you’ll need to prepare fresh food for them with plenty of protein and vitamin-rich produce. If sugar gliders don’t eat well, their health can decline rapidly.

Sugar glider behavior & temperament

Sugar gliders are popular for their playful and affectionate temperament. Taking the time to bond with your sugar glider is crucial, as they will learn to trust you and adore your attention. Even though they’re predators in the wild, they rarely bite their owners.

They are colony animals, so experts recommend having at least two of these furry friends to provide each other company and proper socialization. Without constant attention and companionship, they can experience severe health issues stemming from anxiety.

Housing for sugar gliders

Despite being tiny animals, sugar gliders require a significant amount of living space to thrive. You’ll want an enclosure of at least 36x24x36, containing plenty of obstacles for climbing. A sugar glider cage should also include a cozy nest or pocket area for sleep, as well as a variety of toys to encourage exercise and play.

Is a sugar glider right for you and your lifestyle? If you have your heart set on one of these playful and entertaining nocturnal animals, keep these key factors in mind when doing your research.

About the Author
Author

Joyce Torelli - Broker, Real Estate Consultant

Joyce Torelli, Broker - Realtor Consultant 508-380-5229 [email protected] 

CRB, ASR(Accredited Seller Representative), CBR, SRES www.JoyceTorelli.com Please see a few of the Google reviews that recent and past clients have been thoughtful to leave, as well as some written testimonials attached. Top 3% of 375 Professionals – 15 ERA Key Realty Offices.

“I am currently a longtime resident of over 30 years in Marlborough, MA, but mainly grew up in Hudson MA. Later, I had the opportunity to live in various towns in and around the Middlesex County area (Acton, Bolton, Framingham, Hopkinton,) as well as in the Netherlands, Europe. Bringing understanding, insight, and strategy on the home sale marketing and sale process is critical. With over 30 years of experience, I have helped hundreds of homeowners get their home sold for the very best price and terms with the least inconvenience, with skill, caring, and a marketing plan tailored to their needs and their home! My buyer clients benefit from the same 30 years plus of experience of positioning their offers to meet with success in getting accepted, which has resulted in many happy home buyers.