There are a few "problems" or "facts" regarding sugar gliders that you might want to take into consideration before adoping one.  Below are a few of the issues that some glider owners have mentioned:

1)    Lack of Domestication:

        Sugar Gliders are wild animals and do not possess the symbiotic qualities which allow us to live in such harmony with dogs, cats, horses, etc.  Domestication is no something that can be imposed on an animal; it is an evolutionary process which creates compatibility among two or more species.  For dogs, this process has been taking place for many centuries.  Sugar Gliders have been in American homes for not too long.  Regardless of being captive bred, they are born with the instinct of a wild animal.

2)    Odor:

        The Sugar Glider's body usually does not have any discernable odor, but they will urinate on all their surroundings as a means of marking territory (including the pet owner!).  This can produce a very strong and unpleasant smell requiring frequent and thorough cage cleaning.  This happens especially when introducing a glider to a new environment.  When a glider as an established territory, it is less of a problem.  A Sugar Glider cannot be potty trained although there is a method for avoiding the majority of the mess.  Let the glider wake u and "eliminate" in his cage before handling or place the glider on a paper towel before letting it roam.

3)    Nocturnal Nature:

        The Sugar Glider is strictly a nocturnal animal, becoming very active around dusk.  During this active period, the glider produces a variety of barks, chatters and shrieks which can be loud enough to interfere with the sleep of the owner and other household members.  A glider's highly specific needs may be impossible to meet by the owner, thus reducing the animal's life span or rendering it more susceptible to disease.  It is so very easy for a glider to be neglected due to their sleep/wake schedule.  An owner gets up in the morning when gliders are snug in their nest and the owner is snug in his own bed when the glider awakens.

4)    Aggressiveness:

        Sugar Gliders are territorial animals and will attack other gliders who stray too close to their nest.  Captive gliders have been observed to viciously attack newly introduced gliders.  This behavior is most prominent in mature gliders.  This instinctive nature may result in aggressive biting and scratching of the pet owner especially if the owner has the scent of another glider present.  It is best to wash hands before handling, especially if there are other pets in the household.  The scent of some soaps and cosmetics are very offensive to gliders and will intensify aggressive behavior.

5)    Size:

        Because sugar gliders are tiny, fragile animals, owners have encountered problems with keeping them in some households.  Gliders can easily be crushed, being forgotten in a pocket or by being sat upon.  Gliders also suffer from Hind Leg Paralysis, a result of improper diet and handling.  Gliders also have very sharp nails that may get caught on the side of their cages and in fabric of clothing.  Pulling them when they are grasping can easily sprain or break fingers, wrists and ankles.

6)    Socialization:

        It has been reported that a sugar glider can die of lonileness.  Sugar Gliders are communal creatures and they need the company of their own kind or consistent attention from the owner.  It is suggested that an owner spend at least two hours per day with a single glider.

7)    Expense:

        Currently running $200.00 a piece, a sugar glider is a sizable investment for anyone.  Unfortunately, no one can guarantee the animal's life span, thus making the investment more risky.  The housing requirements for the glider can also be a large investment and ongoing nutritional needs are another consideration.

8)    Life Span:

        A sugar glider can live up to 15 years in captivity.  Can you take the responsibility for this animal for that long?

9)    Time Commitment:

        Do you have time to keep a relatively large cage clean?  Do you have time to clean and cut fresh fruits and veggies for your sugar glider everyday?  Since sugar gliders are very social animals, do you have enough time to play with it consistently?  Do you have enough money to buy two sugar gliders to keep each other company?  If children are caring for it, do you have the time to surpervise and help in handling and caring for it?  Do you have someone to take care of your pet if you are gone for more than 24 hours or can you take sugar gliders with you on trips?

10)    Money Commitment:

        Can you afford the sugar glider and the habitat?  Plan on spending at least a minimum of $250.00 - 300 in start up costs with a regular monthly maintenance of $6.00 tp $10.00 depending on the diet that you use.  Do you have money set aside for any vet bills?