Feeding baby sugar gliders (joeys) can be tricky, especially with the amount of conflicting information available online. As with many exotic pets, their nutritional needs are unique—and understanding them is key to raising a healthy, happy glider. At Exotic Nutrition, we’ve developed specialized diets and supplements designed to take the guesswork out of feeding.
Understanding Their Nutritional Needs
In the wild, sugar gliders feed on eucalyptus gum, nectar, insects, and even small prey. Replicating this variety in captivity can be challenging. A proper calcium-to-phosphorus balance is especially important—too much phosphorus can lead to metabolic bone disease, a condition that weakens the bones.
To simplify feeding, Exotic Nutrition offers ready-to-use diets and supplements that provide complete, balanced nutrition—no blending or complicated prep required.
🐣 Feeding Stages for Baby Sugar Gliders
Under 6 Weeks OOP (Out of Pouch):
At this stage, joeys should still be nursing. If they’re orphaned or unable to nurse, use the Sugar Glider Joey Nursing Set, which includes formula and feeding syringes for safe hand-feeding.
6–8 Weeks OOP:
Begin weaning your joey by introducing soft foods such as Gliderade, fresh fruits, and finely chopped vegetables (always defrost frozen produce before serving). Offer about 25% fruits and vegetables, and 75% protein-based foods.
8 Weeks and Older:
By this stage, joeys should be eating on their own. Introduce a complete diet like Instant-HPW, Glider Essential, or Glider Complete provides essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Glider Complete even contains eight types of fruit within the pellets, so extra fruit isn’t always necessary.
🍯 Recommended Supplements
To support healthy growth and development, we recommend:
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Gliderade– A sweet nectar drink mix high in carbohydrates, vitamins, and bee pollen.
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Glider-Booster– A powdered multivitamin that can be sprinkled on fruits or mixed into soft foods daily.
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Glider-Cal– A calcium supplement that can be lightly dusted over insects or fruit to maintain healthy bones.
Fresh water should always be available.
🚫 What to Avoid
Avoid offering too many fruits—sugar gliders tend to fill up on the sweet foods and ignore protein sources. If your joey is reluctant to eat dry food, try adding a bit of honey or apple juice to encourage them. Always remove uneaten food daily to prevent spoilage.
Simple, Reliable Nutrition
Feeding sugar gliders doesn’t have to be complicated. With the help of Exotic Nutrition’s specialized diets and supplements, you can provide balanced nutrition at every stage of life—ensuring your joey grows strong, healthy, and full of energy.
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Notice: Exotic Nutrition cannot provide specific care guidelines on an individual basis. Please consult a veterinarian or experienced breeder.
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