Metabolic Bone Disease
What is it?
Metabolic bone disease (MBD) develops when a sugar glider's diet has too little calcium, too much phosphorus, or not enough vitamin D. The body pulls calcium from the bones, leaving them weak and prone to fracture. It is usually caused by fruit- or insect-heavy diets without proper supplementation.
What signs should I watch for?
Signs to watch for include weakness or trouble climbing and gliding, hind-leg weakness or paralysis, tremors or seizures, swollen or bowed limbs, and fractures from minor falls.
How is it diagnosed and treated?
Diagnosis is based on diet history, exam, X-rays, and blood tests. Treatment includes calcium supplementation, correcting the diet, cage rest, and supportive care.
Can it be prevented, and what's the outlook?
- Feeding a balanced, veterinarian-recommended diet prevents MBD.
- Many gliders improve with early treatment.
Reviewed by the Adler Veterinary Hospital veterinary team, October 2026.
Gliders on fruit- or insect-heavy diets
Who's at risk:
Weakness, hind-leg paralysis, tremors or seizures, fractures
Main signs:
See a vet within a day or two
Urgency:
When to call a vet right away
- Tremors or seizures
- Hind-leg weakness or paralysis
- A possible broken bone after a minor fall
Not sure whether it can wait? Call us anyway. Our team can help you decide.
Source:
Related conditions
Trauma
Hind-Limb Paralysis
Malnutrition & Obesity