Caring for an orphaned sugar glider joey doesn't end after the first few days. Once a hand-reared joey is stable, your focus shifts to steady growth, warmth, hygiene and a gradual move toward solid food. Close teamwork with an exotics vet is just as important now as it was at the start.
At SunCoast Sugar Gliders we've cared for gliders since 1999, including many years as a breeder. This is Part 2 of our guide. If you're just starting, read Part 1 on hand rearing sugar glider joeys first.
Weighing and Tracking Growth
Daily weights are one of the best tools you have.
- Weigh at the same time each day on a kitchen scale that measures in grams.
- Record each weight with notes on feeding and droppings.
- Look for steady gain. A pause, a drop or slow gain is a reason to call your vet.
Bring your records to every checkup so your vet can adjust care.
Warmth as the Joey Grows
As joeys grow fur and become more active, they need less added warmth. But they still can't regulate temperature as well as adults.
- Keep the joey in a fleece pouch in a warm room
- Watch for signs of being too cold, like shivering or sluggishness
- Watch for signs of being too warm, like restlessness or panting
- Ask your vet when to reduce extra heat
Hygiene
- Keep the pouch clean and dry, and change it often
- Gently clean any formula from the joey's face and fur
- Wash feeding supplies thoroughly after every use
- Continue toileting help as long as your vet advises
Moving Toward Solid Food
As the joey grows, your vet will guide you in introducing soft foods. Typically:
- Joeys start by licking or tasting soft foods
- Formula feedings decrease gradually as solid food increases
- The joey learns to eat from a dish
Offer the same kinds of foods adult gliders eat, introduced slowly. A consistent staple and fresh produce form the base. Our guide to weaning sugar glider joeys explains the process for joeys raised by their parents, and many of the same principles apply.
Social Needs
Hand-reared joeys often bond strongly with people, but they still need glider companionship. Ask your vet when and how to introduce a hand-reared joey to other gliders. A gradual introduction helps the joey learn normal glider behavior. See how to introduce sugar gliders for steps.
Signs the Joey Is Thriving
- Steady weight gain on your daily records
- A fuller, smoother coat
- Bright eyes and alert, curious behavior when awake
- Normal droppings
- Growing interest in soft foods
- Climbing and gripping with more strength each week
Common Mistakes
- Stopping formula too quickly
- Changing several things at once
- Skipping daily weights
- Keeping the joey isolated from other gliders long-term
- Introducing hard foods too early
- Skipping vet visits once the joey seems stable
When to See an Exotics Vet
Call promptly if the joey:
- Loses weight or stops gaining
- Coughs, sneezes or has nasal discharge
- Has diarrhea or no droppings
- Seems weak or lethargic
- Refuses food or formula
- Has a swollen belly
A Simple Daily Routine
A typical day during this stage includes:
- Morning weight check and record
- Feedings on your vet's schedule
- Pouch changes and cleanup
- Quiet time to sleep
- Gentle handling and bonding during the joey's awake times
Frequently Asked Questions
When can a hand-reared joey eat on its own?
It varies by joey. Your vet will help you decide when to reduce formula and move to solid food based on weight and development.
Will a hand-reared joey bond with other gliders?
Many do, with patient, gradual introductions. Talk to your vet about timing.
Does a hand-reared joey need extra vet visits?
Often, yes. Regular checkups help catch growth or health problems early.
When should a hand-reared joey move to a regular cage?
When it's eating solid food well, keeping its weight up and staying warm on its own, your vet may say it's ready. Start with a smaller, joey-safe setup with low perches and narrow bar spacing.
Growing Toward Independence
With daily weights, warmth, clean habits and your vet's guidance, a hand-reared joey can grow into a healthy adult. Once it's eating solid food, support it with premium nutrition such as Happy Glider Fruity. SunCoast Sugar Gliders, Since 1999. Orders of $30 or more ship free.