Here's why exercise is crucial for sugar gliders:
* Physical health: Exercise helps them maintain a healthy weight, strong bones and muscles, and good cardiovascular health.
* Mental stimulation: Sugar gliders are intelligent animals that need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and stress. Exercise provides this stimulation and helps them stay engaged.
* Behavioral health: Lack of exercise can lead to destructive behaviors like chewing on furniture or cages. Exercise helps them release pent-up energy and reduces the likelihood of these problems.
Ways to provide exercise for your sugar glider:
* Large cage: A spacious cage with plenty of climbing branches, hammocks, and toys is essential.
* Playtime outside the cage: Supervised playtime in a safe, glider-proof room is crucial.
* Exercise wheel: A sugar glider-safe wheel can provide a great workout.
* Interactive toys: Toys like puzzle feeders, foraging balls, and climbing ropes can stimulate their minds and encourage movement.
Remember: Always supervise your sugar glider during playtime to ensure their safety.