Hello, I currently have 2 sugar gliders, Charlie (9, fixed male) & Delta (11, female). I got them ~3 years ago from TPG and they were previously a breeding pair who were then retired from reproducing after about half of their lifespans. Unfortunately, Delta has been showing signs that her time is coming; she’s been making abnormal noises that seem to be discomfort. The vet says it’s possible her kidneys are failing, and because she is slightly dehydrated, blood work would be risky to tell exactly what is going on. Being that Delta is 11 and showing these signs, it’s possible she might not make a year, leaving Charlie all alone at 9 years old. I would really like some input on what the best option is for Charlie once she passes scene as I do not want to take on new gliders at this time.

I've pondered this decision ever since I got the gliders because there are so many different situations, and there doesn't seem to be a “perfect” option. I've thought of a few options and would like some input or other ideas of what I might do when the time comes. Everything is super situational so I am trying to have a plan for any scenario:

1. One option is to have found a home found for him so that he is able to be bonded asap. However, with the uncertainty of how he will react after losing his mate, especially since he is older as well, I would need to decipher how he is acting/feeling during that time to see if he is up for bonding, or if the stress of a new environment and new sugar gliders would send him over the edge.

2. Make him comfortable until he passes. Considering he’d be losing his mate of his whole life, it’s possible the grieving would send him over the edge. I’d just want to make him comfortable until his time comes

3. Put him down. I don't want to put him down immediately, but if it comes to it, and his quality of life is depleting fast (option 2), I’ll likely put him down to avoid any unnecessary suffering ie. starving himself, dehydration, depression, self-mutilation...

4. Technically finding a home for both of them now before Charlie is alone is an option as well. However, with Delta's condition I don't think sending her to a new, stressful place along with her specific care & medication would be the best scenario.

I don’t exactly know what the "right" option is. Please let me know if you guys have any other ideas, or can help me decide/discuss whether a home transfer would be too stressful for him or not. Thank you!

I'm sorry you're having to make these decisions...

I would not rehome Charlie if possible. He will grieve. He may need more attention from now on. A few more toys or foragers. A snuffle mat helped my boy when his mate passed.

Extra blankies in his pouch will help a lot too. Have you bonded with him? If so, maybe carry him in a bonding pouch when you can. Feather tug of war during playtime would also help. He should also have a well check if he starts over grooming.

Please register so we can keep track of this thread, and your journey.

I am very sorry your having to make these hard decisions.
I too would hang onto him and give him more attention. Rehoming old gliders is very hard on them, some pass away within days of being rehomed.

Please take a moment to register and keep us updated on your little ones.

Hello I’m the original poster! For some reason my laptop won’t let me sign in, so I’m using my phone from now on. I’m like 80 years old when it comes to techy stuff.
Thank you for these ideas. I agree with what y’all are saying, and thank you for the ideas to make him feel more comfortable. Even 3 years ago when I got the pair II had to work so slowly because of how scared they were in a new situation. Allowing him to feel comfortable seems to be the best option for sure.
I will update if anything happens ❤️