Sugar Gliders- Removing joeys after weaning?

Question
QUESTION: I removed joeys from mom and dad's cage at 8 weeks o.o.p. two days later mom is now looking like she has lumps forming. Joeys are eating and pooping on their own and seem to be just fine.Can mom be carrying joeys so soon after weaning? Or are there any other concerns that I should be watching mom for? I vaguely remember reading about a milk problem moms can get if joeys are pulled before she is ready. Any ideas?

ANSWER: Dear Elena:

Yes, the mother could have joeys in pouch this soon and even sooner.  She can be pregnant and have joeys in pouch at the same time.  

It should be fine if you pulled the joeys at eight weeks and they are eating and drinking on their own.  This is the standard accepted age to safely pull joeys.  

You want to make sure the mother has extra protein and if you feel she needs supplementing, a teaspoon of vanilla ensure with her food won't hurt.

Laurie

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I've never heard of giving gliders vanilla. Do you give them imitation or real? Ensure her food won't hurt, I don't understand. How does vanilla help? Thank you for easing my uneasiness about mom and joeys. I will continue to keep a close eye on all of them. Well just because I can ; ) Thanks again!

Answer
Dear Elena:

I'm sorry if I was not clear.  It is not the vanilla that has anything to do with it.  It is the Ensure.  Ensure is a dietary supplement you can find at most grocery stores.  Vanilla Ensure Plus is a liquid diet supplement that is safe for sugar gliders and gives them a little bit of extra for sick, pregnant or lactating gliders.  You can also give them the strawberry flavor, but do not give them the chocolate flavor.

Best,

Laurie