Running in circles it’s a behavior that’s often observed in captive sugar gliders, and it can be concerning to their owners.
There are a few different reasons why sugar gliders might run in circles. Most of the time is something you should not worry about because it can be due to excitement, boredom, or they simply want to exercise. But, if you notice other behavioral changes, it could be a sign of stress or dehydration, and you need to help your little pet.
In this article, we talk about the reasons why your sugar glider is running in circles and what can you do about it.
Reasons why your sugar glider is running in circles
There are several reasons why your sugar glider might start running in circles. It could be a sign of excitement or boredom.
Usually, this is not a cause for concern, but if your sugar glider is running in circles excessively, it might be a sign of something more serious. Keep an eye on the behavior of your little pet and if him/ her has other mood changes (e.g. becomes more aggressive, loss of appetite, stays hidden, etc.) it could be a sign of something more serious, such as stress or an illness.
If you notice your sugar glider running in circles more frequently, it’s important to take a closer look at their behavior and see if there are any other changes.
Excitement
One of the most common reasons why sugar gliders run in circles is because they’re excited. This could be due to a new treat you gave your pet, playing with toys, or even seeing you after being away for a while. If your sugar glider is running in circles when you are coming home from work, then there’s no need to worry.
Boredom
Another reason why sugar gliders run in circles is because they’re bored. This is often seen in captivity when there’s not enough stimulation. Following our list of toys ideas, try to provide them plenty of things to do.
Exercise
Running in circles is also a way for sugar gliders to exercise. If you notice your sugar glider running in circles at night, it’s most likely because they want to burn off some energy before going to sleep.
You can help your sugar glider exercise by providing them with a wheel or other toys that encourage them to move around.
Stress
In some cases, sugar gliders will run in circles due to anxiety. This could be caused by a change in their environment, such as a new pet or baby in the house. If your sugar glider is running in circles and seems stressed, then you should try to create a more calming environment for them.
Dehydration
A common cause of stress for sugar gliders is dehydration. This is often seen in captive sugar gliders who don’t have access to water. You should give your furry friend fresh water and make sure they have access to a water source at all times.
Illness
In rare cases, sugar gliders will run in circles due to an underlying medical condition. This could be anything from a neurological disorder to an ear infection. If you think your sugar glider’s running in circles could be due to an illness, then you should take them to the vet for a check-up.
What can you do if your sugar glider is running in circles
If your sugar glider is running in circles due to boredom, then you should try to provide them with more enrichment. This could include adding more toys to their cage, letting them out to play more often, or even getting a second sugar glider.
If your sugar glider is running in circles due to stress, then you should try to create a more calming environment. This could include adding more hiding spots to their cage, playing soft music, or using a pheromone diffuser.
If your sugar glider is running in circles due to an underlying medical condition, then you should take them to the vet for a check-up.
In most cases, sugar gliders will only run in circles occasionally and there’s no need to worry.
How to prevent stress
The best way to prevent stress in sugar gliders is to provide them with a large cage, plenty of enrichment, and attention.
A large cage will give your sugar glider enough space to explore and play. It should also be equipped with plenty of enrichment, such as toys, climbing branches, and hiding spots.
You should also spend time interacting with your sugar glider every day. This could include playing with them, grooming them, or just spending time talking to them.
We have an entire article about how to calm a stressed sugar glider.
Conclusion
If your sugar glider is running in circles, it could be due to excitement, boredom, stress, dehydration, or an underlying medical condition. In most cases, there’s no need to worry. However, if you think your sugar glider’s running in circles could be due to an illness, then you should take them to the vet for a check-up. You can also try to provide more enrichment if your sugar glider is running in circles due to boredom or stress.
