How to Care for a Hedgehog

A hedgehog is a small spiny mammal in the order Erinaceomorpha. There are 16 species, but only 4 are commonly kept as pets with the White-bellied Hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) being the most popular. They are unusual pets but are becoming more popular, and hedgehogs are easy to care for. The following steps will help you take care of your hedgehog.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Select the proper container in which to keep the hedgehog. Pet stores sell containers specific to this purpose, but almost anything will do as long as it is at least 20 gallons in size and has a solid floor with an area of at least 2 square feet.

2. Maintain the container temperature above 68 degrees, using a reptile heating pad if needed. Only heat part of the cage so the hedgehog can cool off, too.

3. Keep a 1- to 2-inch layer of bedding. Sawdust from pine, aspen or almost any other non-aromatic tree (not cedar) should work well. Keep a smaller container such as a shoebox for the hedgehog to hide in and a larger exercise wheel (11 inches in diameter) with a solid surface. Include some rubber or plastic toys for the hedgehog to chew on.

4. Feed your hedgehog a varied diet high in protein and fiber but low in fat. Hedgehogs are omnivores and no single food source will meet their requirements. A diet centered around cat food is a good place to start, but be careful not to overfeed your hedgehog. Hedgehogs only need 70 to 100 calories per day and will eat much more than this if given the opportunity.

5. Let your hedgehog get used to you (especially your scent) before trying to pick it up. Hedgehogs are safe to handle but they may curl up or puff air at you at first. Hedgehogs should normally be kept separately, but some individuals prefer companionship.

Resources

• Learn more about hedgehogs at Fairfaxhedgehogs.