Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I used to own two sugar gliders but one of them unfortunately died recently. Eversince, the one left is lonely and I feel really bad about it. Anyway, if I could afford a new sugar glider, i would get one, but it's too expensive for me right now. So I read this article about a sugar glider who was lonely and the owner paird him up with one of her pet rats. Here is where i ask my question. Would it be impossible to introduce a baby rat to a 2 year-old sugar glider? Both of those species are very sociable and I know it sounds kind of crazy but I know they wouldn't probably be "friends" at first, but I could use the techniques that people use to introduce adult sugargliders... maybe.

I need some help please!!!!!

hey, im not sure of the introduction process for adult gliders, but i have had rats live w mice (from juveniles through adult hood) and i currently have a rat living with a ferret (i know natural enemies but they have been together for over a year now) so i think anythings possible at this point. Just be careful because in this instance the $250 pet (glider) is the one that would be killed if things didnt work out.

Actually a sugar glider would probably kill the rat.

>>Actually a sugar glider would probably kill the rat.

NO! The RAT WOULD KILL THE GLIDER> I AM SPEAKING FROM EXPERIENCE!
I had a 6 months old male glider, and a 4 week old rat. This thing looked harmless!!! I had put the two together supervised and they seemed fine together. I left them together to go gett them a snack out of the ktichen, came back and blood was everywhere. The BABY rat had bit into the gliders neck and it died within 10-15 minutes. I didnt even have time to get it to the vet.
So I say this, do not make the mistake I amde. Never trust a rat and glider unsupervised. It can be totally devistating. Again, I am speaking from my own experience.

I know its kinda late to be replying to your post but ive been out of town. I have read several articles about pairing up gliders with rats, however none had positive endings- mostly the rat ends up biting and killing the glider. I hope all goes well with your baby. Good Luck

Sugar gliders will eat rats smaller than they are so if you do try dont use a baby rat or you will not be happy with the result. I have heard of larger rats getting along with them but as with any animal you will never know for sure the until you try it. You might try putting there cages close together and give the glider time to get use to it's scent. Good luck.