How to Bathe a Pet Hedgehog

Bathing a hedgehog can be easy if you give them baths when they are young. Young hedgehogs can become accustomed to bathing more easily than older pets and may even enjoy swimming during bath time. A mild shampoo and a toothbrush will get your hedgehog clean right away. Read on to learn how to bathe a pet hedgehog.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baby shampoo
• Soft bristle toothbrush
• Towels

Know About Bathing Your Pet Hedgehog

1. Bathe your hedgehog whenever it gets dirty or about once every few months.

2. Know that some pet hedgehogs love to swim. You can provide slightly deeper water for your pet if they do seem to enjoy swimming.

3. Use tear-free shampoo when you give your pet hedgehog a bath. They have sensitive eyes.

Bathe Your Pet Hedgehog

4. Fill a large sink or your bathtub with two to three inches of lukewarm water.

5. Lather your hands up with a dollop of shampoo.

6. Apply shampoo to the underbelly of the hedgehog and rub.

7. Rub shampoo on your hedgehog's quills.

8. Scrub your hedgehog's quills and feet gently.

9. Rinse your hedgehog with fresh warm water.

10. Dry your hedgehog with a soft towel.

Groom Your Pet Hedgehog

11. Clip your pet's nails after a bath. When the nails are soft, you can trim them with precision.

12. Hold your hedgehog and allow one leg to drop over the edge of your hand. Have the other person hold your hedgehog's nails firmly.

13. Clip each of the nails on each foot.

14. Know that the nails on the front feet wear down quickly and won't need frequent trims.

Tips & Warnings

• Have another person help you trim your hedgehog's nails.
• You may need to have veterinarian's assistance if your hedgehog squirms.
• Be careful of the "quick" on each nail. If the toenail edge bleeds, use a touch of cornstarch to stop the bleeding.

Resources

• Bath Supplies Available on Petco.com
• More About Hedgehogs on Hedgehogworld.com
• International Hedgehog Association Website