Okay, here's a beginner's guide to hedgehog care! This guide covers the basics to get you started and ensure your prickly friend has a happy and healthy life. Remember, responsible pet ownership requires ongoing research and attention to your hedgehog's individual needs.

I. Is a Hedgehog Right for You?

Before you even think about getting a hedgehog, consider these factors:

• Legality: Hedgehogs are illegal in some areas (e.g., California, Hawaii, some cities). Check your local laws before acquiring one.


• Lifespan: Hedgehogs live 4-6 years on average. This is a multi-year commitment.


• Nocturnal: Hedgehogs are most active at night. They need a quiet, dark place to sleep during the day.


• Solitary: Hedgehogs are solitary animals and prefer to live alone. Housing multiple hedgehogs together can lead to fighting and injuries.


• Quilling: Young hedgehogs go through a process called "quilling" where they lose their baby quills and grow adult ones. This can be uncomfortable for them and they may be more irritable.


• Veterinary Care: Find a veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals before you get a hedgehog. Hedgehogs require specialized care, and not all vets are experienced with them. Be prepared for the potential cost of vet visits.


• Allergies: Some people are allergic to hedgehogs. Spend time with a hedgehog before getting one to see if you have a reaction.

• Cage:


• Size: The cage should be as large as possible. A minimum of 4 square feet (e.g., 2' x 2') is recommended, but bigger is always better. A larger cage allows for more enrichment and exercise.


• Material: Solid-bottom cages are essential to protect their feet. Wire cages can cause injuries. Plastic storage bins (sterilite bins) or cages specifically designed for small animals are good options.


• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation, especially if using a bin cage.


• Location: Place the cage in a quiet, low-traffic area away from direct sunlight, drafts, and extreme temperatures. The ideal temperature range is 72-80°F (22-27°C).


• Bedding:


• Recommended: Fleece liners, paper-based bedding (e.g., Carefresh), or aspen shavings (kiln-dried). Fleece liners need to be laundered regularly.


• Avoid: Cedar shavings (toxic), pine shavings (can be irritating), clay-based cat litter (dusty and can be ingested).


• Hiding Place:


• Provide a secure, dark hiding place, such as a ceramic house, a small cardboard box, a fleece pouch, or a PVC pipe. Hedgehogs need to feel safe and secure.


• Food and Water Bowls:


• Use heavy, shallow bowls that are difficult to tip over. Ceramic or stainless steel are good choices.


• Water can also be provided via a sipper bottle, but make sure your hedgehog knows how to use it and still provide a bowl in case the bottle malfunctions. Monitor their water intake.


• Exercise Wheel:


• A solid-surface, non-wire wheel is essential for exercise. Hedgehogs need to run! A 10-12 inch wheel is recommended.


• Ensure the wheel is easy to clean.


• Litter Box (Optional):


• Hedgehogs often choose a specific corner to eliminate. Placing a litter box (shallow tray) in that corner with paper-based litter can help with cage cleanliness.

• Diet: Hedgehogs are insectivores, but in captivity, they need a high-quality, balanced diet.


• Dry Cat Food: The base of their diet should be a high-quality, grain-free, dry cat food with:


• High protein (30-35%)


• Low fat (10-15%)


• High fiber (avoiding corn, wheat, and soy as main ingredients)


• Insects: Offer live or freeze-dried insects such as mealworms, crickets, and waxworms. These should be a supplemental treat, not the main diet. Be careful with waxworms, as they are high in fat.


• Fruits and Vegetables: Offer small amounts of cooked or raw fruits and vegetables as occasional treats. Good options include cooked sweet potato, peas, carrots, and small amounts of berries.


• Avoid: Grapes, raisins, chocolate, onions, garlic, avocado, nuts and seeds, and milk (hedgehogs are lactose intolerant).


• Feeding Schedule: Feed your hedgehog once a day, usually in the evening when they become active. The amount of food will vary depending on the hedgehog's size and activity level. Start with about 1-2 tablespoons of dry food and adjust as needed.


• Fresh Water: Always provide fresh, clean water.

• Approach: Be gentle and patient. Hedgehogs are naturally defensive and may hiss or ball up when frightened.


• Picking Up: Gently scoop the hedgehog up from underneath, supporting its body. You can use a towel or wear gloves if you're nervous about being pricked.


• Handling Frequency: Handle your hedgehog regularly (daily, if possible) to help it get used to you. Start with short handling sessions and gradually increase the time.


• Positive Reinforcement: Offer treats when your hedgehog is calm and relaxed during handling.


• Scent Familiarization: Place a worn t-shirt or a piece of cloth with your scent in the cage to help your hedgehog get used to your smell.


• Bathing: Hedgehogs don't need frequent baths. If your hedgehog gets soiled, you can give it a shallow bath in lukewarm water with a small amount of mild, unscented soap. Be sure to dry them thoroughly.

• Cage Cleaning: Clean the cage regularly, at least once a week. Remove soiled bedding and replace it with fresh bedding. Wash food and water bowls daily.


• Wheel Cleaning: Clean the exercise wheel daily, as it can get covered in feces.


• Nail Trimming: Hedgehog nails can grow long and sharp. Trim them regularly using small animal nail clippers or human nail clippers. Be careful not to cut the quick (the pink part of the nail), as this will cause bleeding. If you're unsure, ask your veterinarian to show you how.


• Signs of Illness: Be aware of the following signs of illness and consult a veterinarian immediately if you notice any of them:


• Loss of appetite


• Lethargy (sluggishness)


• Diarrhea or constipation


• Difficulty breathing


• Nasal discharge


• Skin problems (e.g., dryness, flakiness, redness)


• Quill loss (excessive)


• Limping


• Unusual behavior


• Common Health Issues:


• Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS): A progressive neurological disease.


• Cancer: Hedgehogs are prone to certain types of cancer.


• Respiratory Infections: Can be caused by drafts or poor ventilation.


• Mites: Can cause itching and quill loss.


• Dental Problems: Tartar buildup and gum disease are common.

• Toys: Provide a variety of toys to keep your hedgehog entertained. Good options include:


• Tunnels (PVC pipes, cardboard tubes)


• Balls (small, lightweight balls)


• Empty toilet paper rolls (cut open lengthwise to prevent them from getting stuck)


• Digging boxes (filled with shredded paper or fleece strips)


• Supervised Exploration: Allow your hedgehog to explore outside its cage in a safe, supervised area. Make sure the area is hedgehog-proofed and free of hazards.


• Foraging Opportunities: Scatter food around the cage to encourage foraging behavior. You can also hide mealworms in toys or under bedding.

• Reputable Breeder: The best option is to find a reputable breeder who breeds healthy hedgehogs with good temperaments. Ask the breeder about their breeding practices and health guarantees.


• Rescue Organization: Consider adopting a hedgehog from a rescue organization. This can be a great way to give a deserving animal a home.


• Avoid Pet Stores: Pet stores often source their hedgehogs from mills, where the animals may not be properly cared for.

• Research is Key: This guide is a starting point. Continue to research hedgehog care and learn about their specific needs.


• Consult a Veterinarian: Establish a relationship with a veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals.


• Be Patient: It takes time to bond with a hedgehog. Be patient and consistent with handling and care.


• Enjoy Your Prickly Friend! Hedgehogs can be wonderful pets, providing hours of entertainment and companionship.