Household hazards for sugar gliders hide in nearly every room. Gliders are small, fast and curious, and they can glide onto things you thought were out of reach. Glue traps, open water, ceiling fans, cords, toxic plants, cleaning chemicals and other pets cause many preventable injuries. Glider-proofing a play room before each session is the best protection.
At SunCoast Sugar Gliders we've helped owners glider-proof their homes since 1999. Here are the biggest hazards and how to fix them.
The Top Household Hazards
Glue traps and pest poisons
Gliders can get stuck in glue traps, which can tear skin and fur. Poisons can be deadly if eaten. Remove traps and baits from glider areas. Read about sugar glider pest control alternatives.
If your glider is caught in a glue trap, don't pull it free. Call your vet. Your vet can safely free your glider and check for skin injuries.
Open water
Toilets, sinks, bathtubs, pet water bowls and even cups of liquid can drown a glider. Close lids and remove standing water.
Ceiling fans and appliances
Turn off ceiling fans before play time. Keep washers, dryers, dishwashers and ovens closed.
Doors, windows and recliners
Gliders can be crushed in doors, recliners and folding furniture, or escape through open windows. See our guide to an escaped sugar glider.
Cords and small objects
Chewed electrical cords can cause burns. Small items like rubber bands, coins and jewelry can be swallowed.
Chemicals and fragrances
Cleaners, aerosols, candles and air fresheners can irritate airways. See are candles safe for sugar gliders.
Toxic plants
Many houseplants are toxic. Read about safe plants for sugar gliders.
Other pets
Cats, dogs and ferrets are predators. Keep them out during play.
Glider-Proofing Checklist
- Choose one small room, such as a bathroom, for play time
- Close toilet lids and drains
- Remove plants, cords and small objects
- Turn off fans and close windows
- Remove traps and baits
- Keep other pets out
- Supervise the whole time
If an Accident Happens
Stay calm, keep your glider warm and quiet, and call your exotics vet. If your vet is closed, find an emergency vet for sugar gliders.
Common Glider-Proofing Mistakes
- Checking only at floor level. Gliders climb to the highest spots in a room
- Forgetting other people. Guests and kids may leave doors open or toilet lids up
- Missing small gaps. Gliders squeeze into spaces behind appliances and inside furniture
- Trusting other pets. Even friendly pets can hurt a glider
- Running fans or diffusers out of habit during playtime
A Before-Play Routine
- Close doors and windows
- Turn off ceiling fans and stoves
- Close toilet lids and drain sinks, tubs and buckets
- Put away cords, small objects and chemicals
- Move other pets to another room
- Tell everyone at home that gliders are out
- Count your gliders at the start and end of play
What to Look For After Playtime
Check your glider for cuts, limping, wet fur or anything stuck in its fur. Look around the room for chewed cords, knocked-over items or spilled products.
When to See an Exotics Vet
Contact an exotics vet right away if your glider fell, got caught in a fan or door, chewed a cord, fell into water, contacted chemicals or a glue trap, or was bitten or scratched by another pet. Even if it seems fine, some injuries show up later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most dangerous thing for a sugar glider at home?
Open water, glue traps, fans and other pets cause many serious accidents.
Is a bathroom a good play room?
Yes, if toilet lids are closed, drains are covered and chemicals are put away.
Can gliders chew through cords?
Yes. Cover or remove cords in play areas.
What should I do if my glider gets stuck on a glue trap?
Don't pull it off. Gently cover exposed glue with a little cooking oil or flour to keep it from sticking further, and get to an exotics vet as soon as possible. Your vet can safely remove the glue and check for injuries.
Conclusion: Prevention Is Everything
A few minutes of glider-proofing before each play session prevents most household accidents. Keep your gliders healthy with premium nutrition from SunCoast sugar glider food. SunCoast Sugar Gliders, Since 1999. Orders of $30 or more ship free.