Posted By: Charlie H
Caring for Gliders With HLP - 02/24/06 07:15 PM
HLP is actually a symptom and not disease. It occurs when the bones of the gliders hind legs have had enough calcium leached from them to cripple the glider. The most common cause for this condition is calcium deficiency in the diet. But other things, especially bacterial infection can cause similar symptoms. This is a problem that needs to be addressed by a qualified vet. Here are some suggestions on helping a glider with HLP.
Keep the glider warm at all times.
Keep the glider hydrated.
You may need to hand feed the glider.
Watch for signs of chewing on the toes.
Give medication, usually liquid calcium, per your vets directions.
Use a low profile cage because the glider will not be able to hold on very well. A cage turned on it's side is a good idea.
A pouch or other sleeping place should be provided on the floor of the cage.
Pad the cage floor to help break falls.
Remove anything from the cage that the glider may fall on and injure itself.
Do not overdose with calcium. It takes a while for the calcium to be depleted from the bones and muscles. Replacing the calcium is a slow process. More is not better! Excess calcium can cause problems with the other body organs and urinary tract. Discuss this with your vet.
Xrays are great for discovering lack of bone density. After the treatment has been going for a couple of weeks a blood test is a good idea to check the calcium blood level. And of course follow up xrays to check bone density.
HLP can be reversed. Even if bones get broken they will fuse back together. The glider may loose partial use of one or more limbs but they can live full and fruitful lives.
Charlie H
Keep the glider warm at all times.
Keep the glider hydrated.
You may need to hand feed the glider.
Watch for signs of chewing on the toes.
Give medication, usually liquid calcium, per your vets directions.
Use a low profile cage because the glider will not be able to hold on very well. A cage turned on it's side is a good idea.
A pouch or other sleeping place should be provided on the floor of the cage.
Pad the cage floor to help break falls.
Remove anything from the cage that the glider may fall on and injure itself.
Do not overdose with calcium. It takes a while for the calcium to be depleted from the bones and muscles. Replacing the calcium is a slow process. More is not better! Excess calcium can cause problems with the other body organs and urinary tract. Discuss this with your vet.
Xrays are great for discovering lack of bone density. After the treatment has been going for a couple of weeks a blood test is a good idea to check the calcium blood level. And of course follow up xrays to check bone density.
HLP can be reversed. Even if bones get broken they will fuse back together. The glider may loose partial use of one or more limbs but they can live full and fruitful lives.
Charlie H