Sugar gliders are adorable little creatures and they make really great pets, with their playful nature and affectionate personalities. If you own a sugar glider, or are planning to adopt one, you probably want to build a strong bond with your pet. Well, here are 20 ways you can create an unbreakable bond with them:
1/ Start with a proper environment
A great way to start off with your sugar glider. Before you bring your sugar glider home, make sure you have set up a suitable and safe environment for them. This includes:
- A spacious cage with multiple levels and hiding spots
- Soft bedding
- Toys and enrichment items
- A balanced diet, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and a high-quality protein source
2/ Be patient
Bonding with a sugar glider takes time and patience. It’s important to remember that your new pet may be scared and unsure of its surroundings. Be consistent in your interactions and give your sugar glider time to adjust to its new home.
3/ Establish trust through scent
Sugar gliders rely heavily on their sense of smell to recognize their owners. To help your sugar glider become familiar with your scent, place a small piece of fabric or a worn t-shirt in their cage. This will allow your sugar glider to associate your scent with safety and comfort.
4/ Offer treats by hand
Offering your sugar glider treats is a great way to encourage interaction and build trust. When your sugar glider is comfortable with your presence, try offering treats from your hand. This will help your sugar glider associate you with positive experiences.
Some suitable treats include:
- Small pieces of fruit
- Mealworms
- Yogurt drops
5/ Handle your sugar glider gently
When your sugar glider is comfortable eating from your hand, you can begin to gently handle them. Always approach your sugar glider slowly and calmly, and allow them to come to you. Scoop them up gently, supporting their body, and allow them to explore your hands and arms.
6/ Use Bonding Pouches
A bonding pouch is a small, soft pouch that you can wear around your neck or shoulder and are a great way to carry your sugar glider around with you. Placing your sugar glider in the pouch allows them to be close to you, as well as safe and secure, while they become accustomed to your presence.
7/ Spend time together daily
Consistent, daily interaction is crucial for building a strong bond with your sugar glider. Aim to spend at least 30 minutes to an hour with your sugar glider each day, whether it’s through playtime, cuddling, or simply sitting near their cage.
8/ Provide mental and physical stimulation
Sugar gliders are intelligent and active animals that require mental and physical stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Provide your sugar glider with a variety of toys, such as ropes, ladders, and swings, to encourage exploration and play. Regularly rotate toys to keep your sugar glider engaged and interested.
9/ Respect Their Body Language
Each sugar glider is unique, and learning their body language is essential for understanding their needs and emotions. Pay attention to their vocalizations, posture, and facial expressions to better understand when your sugar glider is happy, scared, or stressed. If they seem stressed or uncomfortable, give them space and try again later.
10/ Spend Time in Their Space
Hang out around your sugar glider’s cage or play area and let them come to you. You can read a book, watch TV, or just chill out. This will help them get used to your presence and become at ease whenever you come around.
11/ Talk to Them
Sounds basic and elementary, but sugar gliders are social creatures and love to hear the voices of their owners. Talk to them in a calm and soothing tone, and they’ll start to recognize your voice and feel more comfortable around you.
12/ Let Them Explore
Sugar gliders love to explore their environment. Let them out of their cage in a safe and secure area and let them run around. Just make sure the area is free of hazards like electrical cords or toxic plants.
13/ Spa Day!
Sugar gliders enjoy being pampered, so consider having a spa day with your pet. This can include giving them a bath, brushing their fur, and trimming their nails. This is a great way to bond and show your pet some love and attention.
14/ Teach Them Tricks
Sugar gliders are intelligent creatures and can be trained to do tricks, such as jumping through hoops or playing dead. Spend time teaching your sugar glider new tricks and rewarding them for their efforts.
15/ Create a Music Playlist
Sugar gliders are known to enjoy music, so create a playlist of songs that you and your sugar glider can listen to together. This is a great way to relax and bond with your pet.
16/ Employ Positive Reinforcement
Sugar gliders respond well to positive reinforcement. Use treats or praise to reward good behavior, like coming to you or using their litter box. This will help them associate you with positive experiences, and learn what you want them to, faster.
17/ Provide Plenty of Playtime
Sugar gliders are active creatures and love to play. Provide them with toys and games to keep them entertained and engaged. You can try making your own toys, like paper bags or cardboard tubes.
18/ Take Them on Car Rides
Sugar gliders can enjoy car rides if they are in a secure carrier. Take your pet on a car ride to a new location, like a park or pet store, and let them explore their surroundings.
19/ Respect Their Sleep Schedule
Sugar gliders are nocturnal animals and sleep during the day. Respect their sleep schedule and avoid handling them during their downtime. They need their rest just like we do!
20/ Play Hide and Seek
Sugar gliders love to play games, so try playing hide and seek with them. Hide treats or toys around the room and let your pet find them.
By following these little steps, you can create a strong, lasting connection with your furry companion and ensure their happiness and well-being. Remember, building a bond with your sugar glider takes time, patience, and dedication, but the rewards of sharing a special bond with your pet are well worth the effort. So, go ahead and try these fun and engaging activities with your glider!