Are you looking for a cute and unusual pet that is easy to care for? A hedgehog might be a perfect match for you. These quilled cuties are rapidly growing in popularity as household pets. Caring for a hedgie is a bit different than taking care of a dog or cat, however, so you’ll want to do some research before making a final decision. In this article from your Collingswood vet, you’ll read about caring for a pet hedgehog.
Cage
Hedgehogs need plenty of room to play, so make sure your pet’s cage isn’t too small. At least four square feet of floor space is needed, as a bare minimum. Make sure that the cage has a solid bottom, as wire flooring can hurt Hedgie’s little feet. You’ll want to place the cage in a spot that is out of direct sunlight, away from drafts, and out of the reach of other pets. These little cuties are often nocturnal, so if you don’t want to be kept up at night, you probably don’t want the cage in the bedroom.
Accessories
Once you have the cage, you’ll need to add bedding, a litter box, food and water dishes, and at least one hidey-hole. Hedgie’s cage should be between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. A good idea is to put an under-tank pad or heating pad in one spot, so your hedgehog can go there when he’s chilly. Your little pet will also need plenty of toys! We also recommend getting a large exercise wheel made out of a solid material.
Diet
Protein is very important to your hedgehog’s health. You can feed your pet hedgehog food, but dry cat food will also do just fine. Supplement this with fruits and veggies, mealworms, crickets, and cooked meat. Unless your little buddy is obese, you can leave food out at all times.
Temperament
Hedgehogs must be properly socialized and handled regularly to be friendly and sociable. Some hedgies are quite amiable and enjoy being held, while others are more aloof. Just like people, or any other animal, your little pal will have good days and bad days. Sooner or later, you’ll end up getting poked! Baby hedgehogs that are quilling tend to be a bit grumpy, though this usually passes.
Please contact us, your Collingswood vet clinic, with any questions about caring for hedgehogs! We are here to help!
