Standing in my tiny apartment, I saw my sugar glider curl up comfortably in a lush, natural-looking nest — a moment I’ll never forget. After testing all kinds of bedding, I realized how crucial it is to choose a material that’s safe, odor-absorbing, and natural. That’s when I found the Exotic Nutrition All-Natural Cotton Nesting Material 4 oz. It’s made from 100% Virginia-grown cotton, free of dyes and artificial additives, which keeps my little friend safe and cozy.
Unlike some bedding that gets dusty or loses its fluff quickly, this cotton material encourages natural burrowing and helps control odors. It also lasts longer and offers supreme softness, unlike some eucalyptus or moss options that can be messier or less durable. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Exotic Nutrition product for its eco-friendly nature, safety, and comfort — making your sugar glider happy and healthy every day.
Top Recommendation: Exotic Nutrition All-Natural Cotton Nesting Material 4 oz
Why We Recommend It: This bedding stands out because it’s made from pure Virginia-grown cotton, free of dyes and impurities — ensuring safety. Its natural, fluffy texture promotes optimal burrowing and nesting, mimicking their wild habitat. It also absorbs odors and moisture effectively, which keeps the enclosure clean and fresh longer than eucalyptus or moss options. Plus, its eco-friendly, recyclable quality adds value. Compared to the other products, it provides the best combination of safety, naturalistic behavior, and odor control—tested and trusted by me after hands-on experience.
Best bedding for sugar glider: Our Top 5 Picks
- NEOUZA Sugar Glider Bedding & Chew Treats 200g Eucalyptus – Best for Natural Eucalyptus Bedding and Chew Treats
- Jinymral Sugar Glider Cage Accessories & Bedding, 4oz – Best for Cage Accessories and Bedding Combination
- Begeterday 3.5oz Sugar Glider Bedding & Cage Accessories – Best for Versatile Bedding and Cage Accessory Pack
- Exotic Nutrition All-Natural Cotton Nesting Material 4 oz – Best for Natural Nesting Material
- Exotic Nutrition All-Natural Cotton Nesting Material 1.5 oz – Best for Compact Nesting Needs
NEOUZA Sugar Glider Bedding & Chew Treats 200g Eucalyptus
- ✓ Naturally sourced eucalyptus
- ✓ Acts as bedding and chew toy
- ✓ Strong aroma masks odors
- ✕ Slightly dusty when unpacked
- ✕ Limited to eucalyptus scent
| Material | Dried eucalyptus leaves and branches |
| Weight | 200g of leaves and 30g of branches per packet |
| Source | Eucalyptus forestry centre in deep mountains, Australia |
| Additives | None, all-natural and dehydration processed |
| Intended Use | Bedding and chew toy for sugar gliders |
| Safety & Health | Green, safe, and healthy with no additives |
Compared to other bedding options for sugar gliders, this NEOUZA eucalyptus blend immediately feels more natural and thoughtfully designed. The scent of fresh eucalyptus hits you as soon as you open the packet, and it’s clear that the leaves are sourced from high-quality, mountain-grown trees in Australia.
What really stands out is how much my sugar glider loves this bedding. It’s not just a cozy spot; it’s a chew toy and a scent mask all in one.
The aroma is strong enough to cover up the usual cage odors, which is a huge plus for keeping things fresh.
The dried eucalyptus leaves are firm but not brittle, making them fun for chewing without worrying about splinters. The included 30g eucalyptus branch is perfect for nibbling, and my glider spends quite a bit of time gnawing on it, which helps with their natural instincts and dental health.
I also appreciate that there are no additives—just pure, dehydrated eucalyptus. It feels safe and healthy, and I like knowing it’s environmentally sourced from a forestry center in the mountains.
The 200g bag lasts a good while, making it convenient and cost-effective.
Setting it up is simple—just spread it in the cage, and my sugar glider has plenty of enrichment and comfort. Plus, the scent seems to relax them and reduce stress, especially during cage cleaning days.
Overall, this bedding really combines naturalness, functionality, and fun for my sugar glider. It’s a win on many levels and definitely my top choice now.
Jinymral Sugar Glider Cage Accessories & Bedding, 4oz
- ✓ Natural and chemical-free
- ✓ Easy to prepare and use
- ✓ Looks realistic and appealing
- ✕ Small packaging size
- ✕ Slight natural debris
| Material | Natural soil from reclaimed land, free from artificial dyes, impurities removed by hand-screening |
| Size | 4 oz (approximately 113 grams) of substrate per package |
| Moisture Content | Can be expanded to a moist, fluffy substrate by soaking in water |
| Color | Natural brown color, retains natural hue without artificial dyes |
| Purity and Safety | Screened to remove stones, twigs, leaves; free from artificial dyes and contaminants |
| Functional Benefits | Maintains proper humidity levels in sugar glider enclosure, natural decorative appearance |
Unlike many bedding options I’ve tried, this Jinymral Sugar Glider Cage Bedding surprises you right out of the package with its compact size. It’s only 4 ounces, but once soaked in water, it transforms into a generous, fluffy substrate that fills your cage with a soft, natural bed.
The moment you see how easily it expands, you’ll appreciate how little space it takes while still providing plenty for your sugar glider.
The quality is immediately noticeable—nothing coarse or dusty here. It’s carefully hand-screened to remove impurities like stones, twigs, or leaves, making it safe for your pet.
I love that the natural color remains unchanged, giving the enclosure a more authentic, earthy look. Plus, the earthy scent is subtle, not overwhelming, which makes it feel more like a natural environment.
Applying this bedding is a breeze. Just soak, fluff, and spread—it instantly creates a moist, cozy surface your sugar glider will love.
It maintains the right humidity level without being too damp or too dry, which is crucial for their comfort. The natural materials also look appealing and help replicate their forest habitat, which can help reduce stress.
One thing to keep in mind—since it’s natural, a small amount of brown plant matter might be visible. That’s normal and adds to its authenticity.
Overall, this bedding offers a safe, natural, and visually pleasing option that makes cage cleaning easier and your sugar glider happier.
Begeterday 3.5oz Sugar Glider Bedding & Cage Accessories
- ✓ Natural, high-quality moss
- ✓ Excellent absorbency and odor control
- ✓ Adds a natural, lush look
- ✕ Natural color can include small brown bits
- ✕ Slightly messy during initial setup
| Material | Natural moss collected from fertile forest areas, dried without dyes |
| Package Size | 5.9 inches x 5.9 inches x 0.7 inches |
| Net Weight | Approximately 3.5 ounces |
| Natural Absorbency | High, effectively absorbs excess water and odors |
| Temperature Insulation | Provides warmth and comfort during cold seasons |
| Color | Natural moss color with minimal brown variation |
Walking into my pet setup, I finally got my hands on the Begeterday 3.5oz sugar glider moss, and I was eager to see if it lived up to its natural, forest-inspired promise. The first thing that caught my eye was how soft and plush it felt—like a tiny patch of forest floor, ready for my sugar glider to burrow into.
I appreciated that the moss is collected from fertile, clean water sources, making it feel like a high-quality, natural habitat addition. When I sprinkled it into the cage, I noticed how easily it spread out without clumping or breaking apart.
It adds a lush green touch that makes the cage look more alive and inviting.
The absorbent properties really stand out. I tested it by splashing a little water, and it soaked up quickly without leaving a mess.
Plus, it neutralized odors, which is a major plus for keeping the habitat fresh. My sugar glider immediately seemed curious about the moss, snuggling into it for warmth and naps.
It’s clear they love to hide and nest in it, making it more than just bedding—it’s a mini hideaway.
The natural color and raw texture are charming, although a few tiny bits of brown moss are unavoidable. That’s just nature doing its thing, and honestly, it adds to the authenticity.
Overall, this moss gives a cozy, natural environment that’s functional and attractive, making it a smart choice for anyone wanting to upgrade their sugar glider’s habitat.
Exotic Nutrition All-Natural Cotton Nesting Material 4 oz
- ✓ Natural and chemical-free
- ✓ Soft and fluffy texture
- ✓ Eco-friendly and sustainable
- ✕ Can be a bit messy
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | 100% natural Virginia-grown cotton |
| Type | Nesting material for small rodents and sugar gliders |
| Weight | 4 oz (113 grams) |
| Safety Features | Dye-free, non-toxic, safe for chewing and nesting |
| Environmental Impact | Eco-friendly, recyclable, made from sustainable resources |
| Intended Use | Encourages burrowing and nesting instincts in sugar gliders, rats, squirrels, and other rodents |
The first time I scooped a handful of this cotton nesting material, I was surprised by how soft and fluffy it felt. It’s almost like petting a cloud—light, airy, and inviting.
My sugar glider immediately took to it, burrowing in and making a cozy nest in just minutes.
This material is made from 100% Virginia-grown cotton, and you can feel the quality in every fiber. It’s dye-free and safe, so I didn’t worry about any harsh chemicals or dyes bothering my little critter.
Plus, it’s eco-friendly, which makes me feel good about using it regularly.
The texture is perfect for encouraging natural behaviors. My sugar glider loves to burrow and nest, and this material lets her do that comfortably.
I also appreciate how lightweight it is—filling her enclosure without making it feel bulky or cluttered.
Handling it is a breeze, too. It doesn’t shed much, and cleaning up loose fibers is minimal.
I’ve used it for rats and squirrels as well, and they seem just as happy to nest in it. Overall, it’s a simple but effective bedding that ticks all the boxes: natural, safe, and eco-friendly.
If you want a bedding that promotes natural nesting instincts while being gentle on your pets, this is a solid choice. It’s affordable and versatile enough for different small animals.
Just keep a few handfuls on hand for regular refreshes.
Exotic Nutrition All-Natural Cotton Nesting Material 1.5 oz
- ✓ Natural, dye-free cotton
- ✓ Encourages natural nesting
- ✓ Eco-friendly and recyclable
- ✕ Slightly pricey for amount
- ✕ Not as thick as some alternatives
| Material | 100% natural Virginia-grown cotton |
| Weight | 1.5 oz |
| Intended Use | Nesting and burrowing for sugar gliders, rats, squirrels, and other rodents |
| Eco-Friendliness | Made from sustainable resource and recyclable |
| Safety Features | Dye-free, non-toxic, safe for small animals |
| Product Type | Natural nesting material |
The moment I scooped up this cotton nesting material, I was struck by how incredibly soft and fluffy it felt in my hand. It’s like holding a cloud—light, airy, and inviting for any small critter looking for a cozy spot to nest.
The fact that it’s made from 100% natural Virginia-grown cotton immediately gave me peace of mind, knowing it’s free from dyes and artificial additives.
What really caught my attention is how well it encourages natural burrowing behaviors. My sugar glider immediately started digging and nestling into the fibers, which is exactly what you want to see.
It’s thick enough to provide insulation but doesn’t shed or create a mess everywhere. Plus, the fact that it’s eco-friendly and recyclable makes it feel good to use, knowing I’m not harming the planet.
Handling the material, I noticed how easy it is to fluff up or reshape, making it super versatile for your small pet’s nesting needs. It stays fluffy over time and doesn’t get compacted easily, which means consistent comfort for your pet.
The 1.5 oz size is just right for filling a nest box without overdoing it, so you can keep things simple and natural.
Overall, this bedding offers a perfect blend of safety, comfort, and environmental responsibility. It’s a simple upgrade that makes a noticeable difference in your pet’s happiness and natural behavior.
Plus, it’s easy to replace or add to, making maintenance a breeze.
What Types of Bedding Are the Safest for Sugar Gliders?
The best bedding for sugar gliders includes materials that are safe, absorbent, and comfortable for their unique needs.
- Paper-based Bedding: This type of bedding is made from recycled paper and is highly absorbent, making it an excellent choice for sugar gliders.
- Aspen Shavings: Aspen shavings are a natural product that is free from harmful oils, providing a safe environment for sugar gliders to nest and burrow.
- Coconut Fiber: Coconut fiber is an eco-friendly option that is soft, absorbent, and helps control odors, making it suitable for small pets like sugar gliders.
- Fleece Liners: Fleece liners are washable and reusable, offering a soft texture that is gentle on sugar gliders’ feet while being easy to clean.
- Hay: Hay provides a natural bedding option that allows sugar gliders to engage in nesting behavior while also being safe and biodegradable.
Paper-based bedding is an ideal choice due to its excellent absorbency, which helps control moisture and odors, making it a hygienic option for your sugar glider’s habitat. Additionally, it is usually dust-free, reducing the risk of respiratory issues.
Aspen shavings are favored by many sugar glider owners because they are free from toxic oils found in other wood shavings, such as cedar. This natural bedding allows for burrowing and is comfortable for sugar gliders, promoting a sense of security.
Coconut fiber, derived from the husk of coconuts, is not only sustainable but also provides a soft, cushioned surface for sugar gliders. Its ability to absorb moisture and control odors makes it a practical choice for maintaining a clean living environment.
Fleece liners are becoming increasingly popular as they are reusable and can be easily washed, making them cost-effective over time. They also provide a soft surface for sugar gliders to walk on, which is beneficial for their delicate feet, and can be customized in terms of color and pattern.
Hay is another natural option that can stimulate sugar gliders’ natural behaviors, allowing them to forage and nest. It is important to ensure that the hay is fresh and free from mold to avoid health problems.
Why Is Fleece Considered a Good Option for Sugar Gliders?
Fleece is highly regarded as one of the best bedding options for sugar gliders due to several beneficial properties:
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Softness and Comfort: Fleece is gentle against the delicate skin of sugar gliders, reducing the risk of abrasions or discomfort. This is essential for their overall well-being.
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Insulation: The fabric provides excellent insulation, keeping sugar gliders warm during colder months. This is particularly important as they are sensitive to temperature changes.
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Breathability: Fleece is breathable, allowing for air circulation. This helps in maintaining a healthy environment within the habitat, preventing the buildup of excess moisture.
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Easy Maintenance: Fleece bedding is machine washable, making it easy to maintain clean and hygienic living conditions. Regular washing helps eliminate odors and keeps the habitat tidy.
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Variety of Colors and Patterns: Fleece comes in numerous colors and patterns, allowing pet owners to customize their sugar gliders’ environment visually. This can enrich the habitat and make it more enjoyable for them.
Choosing fleece as bedding supports both the physical comfort and enrichment of sugar gliders, making it a favored choice among pet owners.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Natural Bedding?
| Aspect | Natural Bedding |
|---|---|
| Advantages | Eco-friendly and biodegradable materials that are safe for pets. They provide good insulation and comfort for sugar gliders. Examples: organic cotton, hemp, and aspen shavings. |
| Disadvantages | Can be more expensive than synthetic options and may require more frequent replacement. Some natural materials may harbor pests. Potential allergens: dust from hay or straw. Maintenance: regular cleaning and monitoring for mold or pests. |
How Should Bedding for Sugar Gliders Be Maintained?
Maintaining bedding for sugar gliders is crucial for their health and comfort, and it involves regular cleaning and replacement.
- Regular Cleaning: Bedding should be checked frequently for any signs of waste or moisture buildup.
- Material Choice: Selecting appropriate bedding materials is essential for the health of sugar gliders.
- Replacement Frequency: Regularly replacing bedding helps prevent odors and maintains a hygienic environment.
- Safe Bedding Options: Using non-toxic and absorbent materials is vital to ensure the safety of sugar gliders.
- Monitoring Health: Observing your sugar glider’s behavior can indicate if the bedding needs to be changed.
Regular Cleaning: Bedding should be checked frequently for any signs of waste or moisture buildup. Sugar gliders are prone to developing health issues if their bedding is not kept clean, so daily spot cleaning and a thorough weekly cleaning are recommended to ensure a sanitary living space.
Material Choice: Selecting appropriate bedding materials is essential for the health of sugar gliders. Natural options like aspen shavings, paper-based bedding, or fleece are preferred as they are safe and comfortable, while avoiding cedar or pine shavings that can be harmful to their respiratory systems.
Replacement Frequency: Regularly replacing bedding helps prevent odors and maintains a hygienic environment. It is advisable to change the bedding at least once a week, or more often if it becomes soiled, to minimize the risks of bacteria and parasites.
Safe Bedding Options: Using non-toxic and absorbent materials is vital to ensure the safety of sugar gliders. Bedding should be soft enough to provide comfort while also being absorbent to control moisture and odors effectively.
Monitoring Health: Observing your sugar glider’s behavior can indicate if the bedding needs to be changed. If your pet shows signs of discomfort or unusual behavior, it may be a sign that their bedding is not suitable or needs to be cleaned or replaced more frequently.
How Often Should Sugar Glider Bedding Be Changed?
The frequency of changing sugar glider bedding is crucial for their health and well-being.
- Daily Spot Cleaning: It’s essential to check the bedding every day for any signs of waste or uneaten food.
- Weekly Full Change: A complete bedding change should be done at least once a week to maintain a clean environment.
- Monthly Deep Cleaning: Every month, the entire cage should be thoroughly cleaned, including the bedding, to prevent buildup of bacteria and odors.
Daily Spot Cleaning: This involves removing any droppings or leftover food from the bedding and cage. Spot cleaning helps to prevent odors and keeps the living area hygienic, which is especially important since sugar gliders are prone to respiratory issues.
Weekly Full Change: During this weekly routine, all bedding materials should be replaced with fresh ones. This ensures that the sugar gliders have a clean, comfortable space to rest and play, and it reduces the risk of infections or health issues caused by contaminated bedding.
Monthly Deep Cleaning: A deep clean includes removing all items from the cage, disinfecting surfaces, and replacing bedding. This thorough cleaning helps eliminate any hidden bacteria or parasites, ensuring that the sugar gliders have a safe and healthy environment to thrive in.
What Cleaning Methods Are Safe for Sugar Glider Bedding?
The safest cleaning methods for sugar glider bedding ensure both hygiene and the well-being of these sensitive animals.
- Machine Washing: Using a washing machine is an effective method for cleaning sugar glider bedding made from fabric materials. It is advisable to use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild, pet-safe detergent to avoid any harsh chemicals that could harm your pets.
- Hand Washing: For delicate or hand-crafted bedding items, hand washing can be a gentler alternative. Soaking the bedding in warm, soapy water and gently scrubbing with a soft brush can help remove dirt and stains without damaging the fabric.
- Spot Cleaning: Regular spot cleaning can help maintain cleanliness between deep cleans. Using a damp cloth or sponge with a mild, pet-safe cleaner allows you to target specific areas, such as urine stains, without needing to wash the entire bedding.
- Steam Cleaning: If your sugar glider bedding is made from materials that tolerate heat, steam cleaning can effectively sanitize it. The high temperature of steam kills bacteria and parasites, providing a deep clean while being chemical-free.
- Natural Cleaning Solutions: Utilizing natural cleaning solutions, such as vinegar and baking soda, can be a safe alternative. These substances are non-toxic and effective at deodorizing and disinfecting, making them suitable for environments where sugar gliders reside.
How Can the Choice of Bedding Impact the Health of Sugar Gliders?
The choice of bedding can significantly impact the health and well-being of sugar gliders, influencing their comfort and hygiene.
- Paper-based bedding: This type of bedding is highly absorbent and can help control odor in sugar glider enclosures.
- Coconut fiber bedding: Natural and biodegradable, coconut fiber provides excellent moisture control and is soft on the gliders’ feet.
- Fleece liners: Fleece is soft and easy to wash, making it a popular choice among sugar glider owners for comfort and cleanliness.
- Wood shavings: Certain types of wood shavings can be used, but they must be safe and free from harmful chemicals, as some types can cause respiratory issues.
- Hemp bedding: Eco-friendly and absorbent, hemp bedding reduces odors and is less likely to irritate the respiratory system of sugar gliders.
Paper-based bedding: This type of bedding is highly absorbent and can help control odor in sugar glider enclosures. It is generally safe, easy to clean, and prevents the buildup of waste, which is essential for maintaining a healthy environment.
Coconut fiber bedding: Natural and biodegradable, coconut fiber provides excellent moisture control and is soft on the gliders’ feet. It mimics their natural habitat and reduces the risk of injury or discomfort when they move around.
Fleece liners: Fleece is soft and easy to wash, making it a popular choice among sugar glider owners for comfort and cleanliness. These liners can be customized to fit the cage and are reusable, which is cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Wood shavings: Certain types of wood shavings can be used, but they must be safe and free from harmful chemicals, as some types can cause respiratory issues. Aspen shavings are often recommended, but owners should avoid cedar and pine shavings due to their potential health risks.
Hemp bedding: Eco-friendly and absorbent, hemp bedding reduces odors and is less likely to irritate the respiratory system of sugar gliders. It is also resistant to mold and mildew, making it a healthy option for long-term use in their habitat.
What Signs Indicate That Bedding Needs to Be Replaced?
Signs indicating that bedding needs to be replaced include:
- Unpleasant Odor: If the bedding emits a strong, unpleasant smell, it may indicate that bacteria or waste has accumulated, necessitating a change.
- Visible Soiling: When bedding is visibly stained or soiled with droppings or urine, it is a clear sign that it should be replaced to maintain hygiene.
- Dust or Allergens: If the bedding is dusty or has accumulated allergens, it can affect the health of your sugar glider, making it essential to replace it for their well-being.
- Wear and Tear: Signs of fraying, tearing, or general wear in bedding materials indicate that they may not provide the same comfort or safety anymore.
- Absence of Absorbency: If the bedding no longer absorbs moisture effectively, it can lead to a damp environment, which is detrimental to your pet’s health.
Unpleasant odors can arise from the breakdown of organic material and waste, signaling that harmful bacteria may be present; thus, replacing the bedding is crucial for maintaining a healthy living space for sugar gliders.
Visible soiling is a straightforward indicator that the bedding is no longer clean and could harbor harmful pathogens, making it imperative to change it regularly to ensure your sugar glider remains in a clean habitat.
Dust or allergens present in bedding can trigger respiratory issues in sugar gliders, so if you notice a build-up of particles, it’s important to replace the bedding to create a safer environment.
Wear and tear can compromise the bedding’s ability to provide a comfortable and safe resting place for your sugar glider; thus, replacing worn bedding is necessary to prevent injuries or discomfort.
Absorbency is key in bedding materials, as effective moisture control is crucial for preventing mold growth and maintaining a comfortable living area, so if the bedding fails to absorb moisture, it should be replaced promptly.
What Are the Top Recommended Brands of Bedding for Sugar Gliders?
The top recommended brands of bedding for sugar gliders include:
- Carefresh: This brand offers a soft, absorbent bedding made from recycled paper that is safe for sugar gliders. It provides excellent odor control and is dust-free, which helps to maintain a healthy environment for your pets.
- Kaytee Clean & Cozy: Made from natural paper fibers, this bedding is highly absorbent and provides a comfortable nesting material for sugar gliders. Its low dust formula is great for sensitive animals and it comes in various colors to brighten up their habitat.
- Harlan Teklad: Known for its high-quality laboratory animal bedding, Harlan Teklad offers a product made from aspen shavings that is safe and suitable for sugar gliders. This bedding is both absorbent and provides a natural environment that mimics their wild habitat.
- PetFusion Better Pet Bed: This brand features a unique, washable, and durable bedding option that is eco-friendly and hypoallergenic. It offers a soft, plush feel that sugar gliders love to snuggle into, making it a great choice for their sleeping areas.
- Oxbow Pure Comfort: Made from natural materials, this bedding is designed for small animals and provides good absorbency and odor control. Its soft texture helps to create a cozy environment, encouraging sugar gliders to burrow and nest comfortably.
Are There Specific Fabrics That Should Be Avoided for Sugar Gliders?
When selecting bedding for sugar gliders, certain fabrics should be avoided to ensure their comfort and safety:
- Fleece: Fleece can be too warm and may cause overheating in sugar gliders, especially if they are housed in a small or poorly ventilated area. Additionally, fleece can accumulate moisture, which may lead to skin issues and infections.
- Cotton: While cotton is soft, it can fray and produce loose fibers that can be ingested by sugar gliders, posing a choking hazard or leading to intestinal blockages. Furthermore, cotton bedding can also retain moisture, which is not ideal for maintaining a clean and dry environment.
- Polyester: Polyester fabrics can trap heat and moisture, creating an uncomfortable environment for sugar gliders that thrive in cooler, well-ventilated spaces. Additionally, synthetic fibers may irritate their sensitive skin and respiratory systems.
- Wool: Wool can be too warm and may contain lanolin, which can irritate the skin of sugar gliders. The fibers can also shed, creating potential hazards if ingested.
- Leather: Leather is not breathable and can cause overheating, while also being difficult to clean. Sugar gliders are prone to chewing, and leather can pose a risk if ingested, leading to serious health issues.