Some things to think about for first time owners:
Now that you've done your research and have decided that you're the right mommy/daddy for gliders, it's time to get ready to bring them home. Before you look for the actual gliders, there are some things you need:
1) Vet---When it comes to exotic animal like sugar gliders, not any vet will do. Some vets say they'll treat gliders, but you'll want to ask if they've ever actually treated any. Ask what their well exams consist of. You don't want a vet who just looks at them and pronounces them healthy. Most important is to find a vet who's willing to LISTEN. Many times, the first signs of illness are subtle and may only be noticed by an attentive glider mommy/daddy who knows how their glider normally acts. You want a vet who'll pay attention when you say, "My glider isn't acting right. Something's wrong." Early and immediate action is crucial.
2) Cage---While some gliders will come with a cage, it's rarely large enough. It's best if you have a proper cage ready...or at least know where to get one. Buying a glider cage isn't as easy as you think. It must be coated metal with bar spacing 1/2" or less. It needs doors large enough to take toys in and out and for easy cleaning access. A pull out litter tray is smart. They're easy to clean and keep your little sweeties from walking in their waste.
***Reptariums are another choice. They're easy to clean, but you
must change the bottom liner daily. Two other considerations are
that gliders can chew through the mesh. For this reason, I don't
recommend them as a first cage...you have to know your gliders
and make sure they're not chewers. Second, the options for
hanging toys/vines/pouches are limited unless you buy RepGear.
This is fleece tubing with attached rings that slide over the tubes.
They can be ordered at:
http://www.sugarmonstersinc.com/ 3) Other Supplies---You'll want to stock up on glider safe toys and pouches. For new owners, I recommend purchasing some from the glider vendors until you learn what is safe for your glider. Some types of wood and plants are toxic, wires can cause injury (as can a rough edge on anything in their cage), and loose strings can wrap around toes or tails...there's a lot to consider. You want to make sure you have enough pouches and fleece blankets so there's always a clean set available when wash day comes around.
4) Diet---Review the nutritional requirements and decide what you want to feed. Know what's needed for it. You have to find a safe and healthy one for your gliders, but it also needs to be easy for you to prepare because you're going to be doing it for years to come. When you find your new gliders, you'll want to know what diet they're on and then decide if you want to stay with that or switch to yours. If you do switch diets, do so gradually.
You've done a lot of work up until this point, now it's time to look for gliders. Are you still 100% committed to love and care for these little ones for the next several years?
