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Metabolic bone disease in feathertail gliders

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Definition Signs Causes Diagnosis Treatment Prevention Complications When to see a vet Prognosis FAQ Sources Affected species

What is it?

Metabolic bone disease, also called nutritional osteodystrophy, is a common disorder in feathertail gliders (small insectivorous marsupials) kept in captivity. It results from an imbalance between calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D in the diet. The bones become fragile, deform, and can fracture easily. This disease primarily affects animals fed exclusively on insects that are not supplemented with calcium.

Commonly observed signs

These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.

Related signs — each one links to its page:

Lameness Difficulty standing up Stiffness Pain Stunted growth Refusing to move Fatigue Loss of appetite Tremors Paralysis

Early signs are often subtle: the feathertail glider becomes less active, eats slightly less, and appears stiff when moving.

As the disease progresses, lameness may develop, reluctance to climb or jump, visible deformation of the limbs or jaw, and sometimes fractures occurring without apparent trauma (pathological fractures).

In advanced cases, the animal may experience tremors, difficulty standing, or even partial paralysis of the hind limbs. A young animal in its growth phase may show delayed skeletal development.

When to consult without delay

This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.

Causes and risk factors

The main cause is an unbalanced diet: excess phosphorus and calcium deficiency, often linked to a diet consisting solely of unsupplemented insects (crickets, mealworms). Lack of exposure to an appropriate ultraviolet B (UVB) light source also limits vitamin D synthesis, which is necessary for calcium absorption. This deficit causes calcium to be released from the bones to maintain normal blood levels, which progressively weakens the skeleton.

Captive feathertail gliders fed a limited diet based on non-enriched insects are most at risk. Fast-growing young animals and females that are pregnant or nursing have higher calcium requirements and are therefore more vulnerable. The absence of appropriate UVB lighting in the terrarium or indoor enclosure is a major risk factor.

Diagnosis and care

Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.

Your veterinarian will review your dunnart's feeding history, perform a careful physical examination of the skeleton (looking for deformities and pain on palpation), and take radiographs if possible to assess bone density and detect any fractures. A blood test can help evaluate calcium and phosphorus levels, though collecting samples from such a small animal is challenging.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on gradually correcting the diet with calcium and vitamin D supplementation suited to the species, under strict veterinary supervision because excess calcium can also be harmful. Exposure to UVB lighting can be provided or adjusted. Complete rest and environmental modifications (low surfaces, avoiding jumps) reduce fracture risk during recovery. In cases of fracture, immobilization or surgical treatment adapted to the animal's size may be considered.

Treatment depends on the cause and the animal's condition: it must be determined by a veterinarian. No self-medication.

Prevention

Prevention relies on a varied and balanced diet, with prey enriched in calcium (calcium powder dusted onto insects) and a calcium-to-phosphorus ratio appropriate for the species. Proper UVB lighting in the enclosure promotes natural vitamin D synthesis. Regular veterinary monitoring, particularly for growing young and breeding females, allows early detection of any nutritional imbalance.

Possible complications

Repeated pathological fractures, permanent bone deformities, hind limb paralysis, and irreversible growth delay in young animals are the main complications. In severe cases, the animal's life may be at risk if it can no longer eat or move normally.

When to see a veterinarian

The dunnart is limping or refusing to move normally.\nDeformities of the feet, spine, or jaw appear.\nThe animal seems weak, trembles, or has difficulty standing.\nA fracture is suspected after a minor movement.\nA young animal is not growing normally despite apparently adequate feeding.

Prognosis

The prognosis depends on the disease stage at diagnosis. If caught early with prompt correction of diet and environment, recovery can be good, though some bone deformities may remain permanent. In advanced forms with multiple fractures or paralysis, the prognosis is more guarded.

Frequently asked questions

Why do dunnarts fed exclusively on insects develop this disease?

Insects such as crickets or mealworms are naturally rich in phosphorus but poor in calcium. Without supplementation, this imbalance causes the body to draw calcium from the bones, which gradually weaken.

Is UVB lighting really essential for a feathertail glider?

Yes, appropriate UVB lighting helps the animal produce its own vitamin D, which is essential for absorbing dietary calcium. Without this light, even a proper diet may not be sufficient.

Can you give calcium to a dunnart without veterinary advice?

No, it's better to seek advice before taking any supplements. An excess of calcium can also cause problems, particularly kidney issues, so a dosage tailored by a professional is preferable.

Is this disease reversible?

If detected early and nutrition is corrected quickly, a significant portion of bone fragility can improve. However, some deformations that are already established may remain permanent.

References

AVMA — American Veterinary Medical Association

Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 02 September 2026

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AT A GLANCE

AgentOther

SpeciesDunnart

VaccineNo

Transmissible to humansNo

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