BML diet for Sugar Gliders – Complete guide for newbie
BML Diet for Sugar Gliders is one of the most recommended feeding plans for ensuring the health and vitality of these adorable marsupials. Developed with a precise balance of nutrients, this diet has gained popularity among Sugar Glider owners worldwide.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the BML diet, from its benefits to preparation tips, so your Sugar Gliders can thrive on a wholesome and balanced meal plan.
1. What is Sugar Gliders BML diet?
1.1. Sugar Gliders BML diet Overview
The Sugar Gliders BML diet – Bourbon’s Modified Leadbeater’s Diet was developed as an adaptation of the original Leadbeater’s Diet, which was created in Australia for Leadbeater’s possums. This diet aimed to replicate the natural nutrition of marsupials in captivity, combining proteins, sugars, and essential nutrients.
Over time, the BML diet gained widespread recognition among pet owners and veterinarians for its ability to promote health and longevity in Sugar Gliders. Its proven effectiveness and ease of preparation have made it a gold standard for captive Sugar Glider care, with enthusiastic adoption across the U.S. and beyond.
1.2. The nutrients in the Sugar Gliders BML diet
The BML diet is formulated to provide a range of essential nutrients, including:
- Protein: For muscle growth and repair.
- Calcium: Crucial for strong bones and preventing Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD).
- Vitamins: Such as Vitamin D3 for calcium absorption and other essential vitamins for overall health.
- Sugars: Provides energy for their active lifestyle.
- Other nutrients: Includes various minerals and trace elements vital for bodily functions.
1.3. Benefit of the Sugar Gliders BML diet
The benefits of the Sugar Gliders BML diet are widely recognized:
- Nutritional Completeness: When prepared correctly, the BML diet offers a balanced mix of essential nutrients.
- Convenience: Freezing the mixture in ice cube trays allows for easy portioning and storage.
- Cost-effective: Making the BML diet at home can be more affordable than commercial diets.
- Variety: The recipe can be adapted to include a variety of ingredients, providing some dietary diversity.
- Promotes Health: Helps maintain a healthy weight, strong bones, and overall well-being in sugar gliders.
2. Sugar Gliders BML diet recipe
2.1. Ingredients
|
Ingredients |
Amount |
| Apple juice | 1/4 Cup |
| Honey (do not use raw or unfiltered) | 1/2 Cup |
| Egg (Hard boiled, scrambled or microwaved – no shell) | 1 Egg |
| Premixed Gerber Juice w/ Mixed Fruit Yogurt | 4 Ounces |
| Rep-Cal Herpivite Vitamin Supplement (Blue Label) | 1 Teaspoon |
| Rep-Cal Calcium Supplement Non-Phosphorous with Vitamin D3 (Pink Label) | 2 Teaspoons |
| Chicken Baby Food (With Broth or With Gravy) | 5 Ounces (about 2 jars) |
| Wheat Germ | 1/4 Cup |
| Dry Baby Cereal (mixed or oatmeal, but most sugar gliders prefer the rice with fruit flavors) | 1/2 Cup |
2.2. Instructions
Here are detailed instructions on preparing a BML diet for Sugar Gliders:
(1) Combine Initial Ingredients: Combine the honey, egg, and apple juice in a blender. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth.
(2) Incorporate Additional Nutrients: Turn off the blender and add the Gerber juice and the Rep-cal Herptivite Vitamin Supplement. Blend again until smooth, then turn off the blender.
(3) Final Blending with left ingredients: Add the Rep-cal Calcium Supplement, chicken baby food, wheat germ, and dry baby cereal to the mixture. Blend one last time until a smooth consistency is achieved.
(4) Fill the Ice Cube Tray and Freeze: Pour the blended mixture into standard ice cube trays, filling each compartment halfway. Place the trays in the freezer until the mixture is frozen solid.
(5) Thaw Before Serving: A few hours before your sugar glider’s feeding time (typically in the evening), place a single frozen BML cube in their food dish. This allows the cube to thaw slightly. Remember to remove any uneaten portion the following morning to prevent spoilage and unwanted pests.
3. Notes when applying the BML diet for Sugar Gliders
– Don’t overfeed: Remember that a full ice cube of BML is intended for two feedings. Offer your sugar glider 1 tablespoon of BML along with equal portions of fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables in the evening. You can use smaller ice cube trays if you find it easier to portion single servings.
>>> Read more: What vegetables can sugar gliders eat? Important notes when feeding Sugar Gliders vegetables
– Balanced nutrition is key: While BML offers a good nutritional base, it shouldn’t be the sole source of food. Always include fresh produce to provide a wider range of essential nutrients and keep your glider happy.
– Avoid modifying the BML recipe to ensure balanced nutrition.
The BML Diet for Sugar Gliders offers an exceptional way to provide a balanced, nutritious, and easy-to-follow feeding regimen for your pets. By carefully following preparation guidelines and maintaining consistency, you ensure your Sugar Gliders live a healthy and happy life. Don’t forget to consult with a veterinarian if you have questions about tailoring the diet to your pet’s specific needs.
