From New Guinea, Australia or Indonesian
rain forests comes this small nocturnal tree dwelling Marsupial that is
related to Kangaroos and Opossums. They are highly social and live
in groups, so as with Ferrets and Prairie Dogs a second "buddy"
is advisable.
These docile creatures are fun to watch
and handle, but require large cages, a hide box for sleeping/security and
lots of branches for their tree dwelling nature. They are prone to
malnutrition often causing rear end paralysis, parasites, pneumonia and
malocclusion, so consult an experienced exotic veterinarian prior to any
problems.
They live 10 to 15 years and require a
diet of fresh chopped fruit and vegetables, a vitamin/mineral supplement
(Nekton Lori is best) and fresh gut loaded insects such as Crickets,
Mealworms and Waxworms.
If you're not prepared for the daily
upkeep on these, don't get one!
The above is a reprint of an article
written by Jack Landess, D.V.M., as a public service. Reprint
permission was obtained from the Florida
Pet Pages.
