Dry cat food that’s high in protein and contains primarily chicken is a great alternative to commercial hedgehog food. Try giving your hedgehog canned dog or cat food that’s primarily chicken as a treat every now and then. Pick a food that’s below 15% fat, around 32 to 35% protein, and has no by-products. Provide about 1–2 tablespoon (15–30 ml) of dry food every day. The amount of food you give your hedgehog depends on their activity level, size, and age. Talk with your veterinarian to see what amount is best for your hedgehog.
Avoid giving your hedgehog grapes or raisins as they can be toxic. [3] X Research source Stay clear of feeding your hedgehog milk and bread as they can cause diarrhea. [4] X Research source
Pick up a live mealworm with a pair of tweezers and dangle it in front of your hedgehog to “hunt. ” Try freezing live insects on a baking sheet, so they’re easier to give to your hedgehog.
Check the water regularly throughout the day, filling it whenever it’s empty and changing it when it gets dirty. Wash the bottle or dish every other day to keep the water and container fresh.
Think about buying an enclosure with multiple levels. This way, your little friend will have plenty of places to explore and hide. Consider using an unlidded, large plastic bin for a cheaper enclosure option. [10] X Research source
Try using fleece blankets or fabric as substrate—just make sure there are no loose strings or tears. [13] X Research source Never put wood shavings in your hedgehog’s enclosure as it could cause cancer and respiratory illness. [14] X Research source Some hedgehog owners like to use commercial bedding products like Carefresh; however, experts advise against it as the particles of this material can easily get lodged in a hedgehog’s genitals and quills. [15] X Research source Change out bedding and clean the enclosure at least once a week to keep your hedgehog’s living space nice and tidy.
Exercise and rest are crucial for a hedgehog, so make sure there are toys and places to sleep. Tubing and piping are great places for hedgehogs to hide, sleep, and run around in. Purchase an exercise wheel with a solid base, not wired.
Fill a sink with about 1 in (2. 5 cm) of warm water. Place the hedgehog in the sink gently, being careful not to get their face or ears wet. Use a toothbrush to scrub the quills gently, and rub the underside of the belly with your fingertips. Take the hedgehog out of the water and dry them with a towel.
If the nail bleeds after trimming, you’ve cut off too much nail. If you have trouble trimming your hedgehog’s nails, talk to your veterinarian about scheduling regular nail trimming appointments.
Give them an oatmeal bath by filling a sock with old fashioned oats and placing it in their bath water[20] X Research source Let your hedgehog crawl around your hands rather than being snuggled or pet Monitor their behavior and leave them be if they’re irritable
Be confident while holding your hedgehog—they’ll feel that energy! Let your hedgehog sniff your hands, crawl in your lap, or chase a ball you roll across the floor.
Not eating or drinking for more than 2 days could be a sign of fatty liver disease or illness. [22] X Research source Dry, scaly skin around the quills could be from mites. Wheezing or crackly breathing could result from a respiratory infection. Soft stools could be from a parasite or illness. Lethargy or cool belly could be a sign of hibernation. [23] X Research source
If you’re not on the same night owl schedule as your hedgehog, consider placing their enclosure outside your bedroom. This way, your pet won’t wake you while they play during the night.
