Heart failure in a sugar glider

A Story from the Examination Room: Heart Failure in a Sugar Glider
By Dr. JJ (Jirasin Jintanapupisit, DVM)

A 1-year-old female sugar glider was brought in due to sudden onset of labored breathing. The owner rushed her to the clinic, and upon physical examination, the veterinarian found that the sugar glider was experiencing severe respiratory distress. She was immediately placed in an oxygen chamber for stabilization.

A chest X-ray was performed to investigate further and revealed the presence of fluid in the thoracic cavity and pulmonary alveoli. The heart silhouette appeared indistinct. A diuretic was administered to reduce the fluid accumulation. A follow-up chest X-ray showed that the fluid had resolved, and the heart's borders became clearer, revealing an enlarged heart. Cardiac ultrasound (echocardiography) was then conducted and showed abnormalities in the heart muscle's contractility.

Once the patient was stabilized, the veterinarian prescribed oral medications for ongoing treatment and scheduled a follow-up appointment to monitor progress.

Heart disease in sugar gliders has been reported in some cases. Common risk factors include aging, obesity, and nutritional imbalances. Most often, the issue lies in the cardiac muscle. In early stages, the condition may not present any visible symptoms. However, once the disease progresses to heart failure, fluid accumulation may occur in the lungs, chest cavity, and abdomen, leading to labored breathing, bluish mucous membranes, abdominal distension, body edema, collapse, and potentially sudden death.

Diagnosis involves a thorough history, physical examination, and chest X-rays to evaluate heart size and check for thoracic fluid accumulation. Echocardiography is used to assess heart function, and electrocardiography (ECG) may be performed to detect abnormal heart rhythms.

Treatment of heart disease in sugar gliders focuses on managing heart failure. Diuretics are used to reduce fluid buildup, and in cases of poor cardiac muscle contractility, positive inotropic agents may be prescribed. Nutritional support may also help strengthen heart muscle cells. For sugar gliders diagnosed with heart failure, close and continuous monitoring is essential to adjust medications appropriately.