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New sugar glider gagging, wheezing and jerking in short episodes

What they asked

Hello, I recently purchased a five-month-old female sugar glider. Since bringing her home, she has been having repeated short episodes where she opens her mouth two or three times, makes a faint wheezing sound, and her body jerks or contracts as though she’s gagging. She also occasionally clicks and whines while resting. Between episodes, she is active, climbing, exploring, drinking water and eating small amounts. The pet shop suggested separation anxiety, but I’m concerned about a respiratory or other medical problem.

Dylan Wilson, DVM Verified VetKY license 293504

I would definitely recommend a vet visit if you are observing open mouth breathing and wheezing. Moving is very stressful to a sugar glider, especially if they are by themselves and will show underlying conditions worsen.

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