What Should You Feed A Hedgehog? (Real Research)

Protein: Protein is an important nutrient for hedgehogs, as it helps support the growth and maintenance of their muscles, skin, and fur. The best sources of protein for hedgehogs include commercial hedgehog food, mealworms, crickets, cooked eggs, cooked chicken or turkey, and some vegetables.

Fat: Fat provides hedgehogs with energy and helps keep their skin and fur healthy. It’s important to choose high-quality sources of fat, such as commercial hedgehog food and small insects, like mealworms or crickets, to ensure your hedgehog is receiving the right balance of nutrients.

Fiber: Fiber is important for hedgehogs as it helps support their digestive health. Some of the best sources of fiber for hedgehogs include commercial hedgehog food, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, strawberries, and leafy greens.

Vitamins and Minerals: Hedgehogs also need a variety of vitamins and minerals to support their overall health. These nutrients can be found in commercial hedgehog food, as well as a small amount of fresh fruits and vegetables, such as carrots and bell peppers.

When choosing food for your hedgehog, it’s important to look for a well-balanced diet that provides all of these essential nutrients. Additionally, it’s important to avoid over-feeding your hedgehog, as they are prone to becoming overweight, which can lead to other health issues.

By providing your hedgehog with a balanced diet that includes the essential nutrients it needs, you can ensure that your pet remains healthy and happy for years to come.

Commercial Hedgehog Food: Commercial hedgehog food is a great option for providing your pet with all of the essential nutrients it needs. It’s formulated specifically for hedgehogs and can provide a convenient and easy-to-use source of nutrition. Look for a high-quality commercial hedgehog food that includes a variety of ingredients, including protein, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Mealworms: Mealworms are a popular food choice for hedgehogs and are an excellent source of protein. They can be offered as a treat or used as a staple food, although it’s important to not over-feed mealworms, as they are high in fat.

Crickets: Crickets are another good source of protein for hedgehogs and can be offered as a treat. Make sure to choose a high-quality source of crickets and avoid any that have been treated with pesticides or other harmful chemicals.

Cooked Eggs: Cooked eggs, including scrambled eggs or hard-boiled eggs, are another good source of protein for hedgehogs. They can be offered as a treat or added to your hedgehog’s diet in small amounts.

Cooked Chicken or Turkey: Cooked chicken or turkey can be a good source of protein for hedgehogs, although it’s important to not offer these foods too frequently, as they can be high in fat. Offer small portions and make sure to remove any bones or skin before feeding to your pet.

Vegetables and Fruits: Fresh fruits and vegetables can be a great source of fiber and vitamins for hedgehogs. Offer small amounts of fruits, such as strawberries or blueberries, or vegetables, such as carrots or leafy greens, as a treat or as a small part of your hedgehog’s diet.

It’s important to remember that hedgehogs are prone to becoming overweight, so it’s important to avoid over-feeding them and to provide a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of different foods. By providing your hedgehog with a nutritious and varied diet, you can help ensure that it remains healthy and happy for years to come.

Dairy products
Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant, which means they can’t digest dairy products properly. Feeding them dairy products can result in digestive issues, such as diarrhea and stomach discomfort. So, it’s best to avoid dairy products altogether and stick to a hedgehog-friendly diet.

Avocados
Avocados contain persin, a toxic substance that can be harmful to hedgehogs. Eating even small amounts of avocado can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. So, it’s important to keep avocados away from your pet hedgehog.

Rhubarb
Rhubarb leaves contain oxalates, which are toxic to hedgehogs. Eating even small amounts of rhubarb leaves can cause kidney damage and other health problems. So, make sure to keep rhubarb leaves away from your pet hedgehog.

Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to hedgehogs. Eating even small amounts of chocolate can result in heart problems, seizures, and even death. So, it’s best to avoid giving chocolate to your pet hedgehog and stick to a hedgehog-friendly diet.

Garlic and onions
Garlic and onions contain compounds that can be harmful to hedgehogs. Eating even small amounts of garlic or onions can cause anemia, digestive issues, and other health problems. So, it’s best to avoid these foods altogether and stick to a hedgehog-friendly diet.

Raw potatoes
Raw potatoes contain solanine, which is toxic to hedgehogs. Eating raw potatoes can result in digestive issues, heart problems, and even death. So, it’s important to avoid feeding raw potatoes to your pet hedgehog and stick to a hedgehog-friendly diet.

As such, when feeding a hedgehog, it’s important to know what foods to avoid, as well as what foods are safe and nutritious. By avoiding these harmful foods and sticking to a hedgehog-friendly diet, you can keep your pet hedgehog healthy and happy for years to come.

Hedgehogs are unique creatures with distinct dietary needs, and it’s important to understand their feeding habits and portion sizes to provide them with the best nutrition. Here’s what you need to know about frequency of feeding, portion size, and variety in diet:

Frequency of feeding:

Hedgehogs are typically fed once or twice a day. Juvenile hedgehogs may require more frequent feedings, while adult hedgehogs may need fewer feedings. You should consult a veterinarian to determine the ideal feeding schedule for your hedgehog, as it can vary based on individual factors like age, weight, and activity level.

Portion size:

When it comes to portion size, a general guideline is to offer your hedgehog 2 to 4 tablespoons of food per day. Again, it’s best to consult a veterinarian to determine the exact portion size that’s appropriate for your hedgehog, as portion size can vary depending on factors such as age, weight, and activity level.

Variety in diet:

It’s important to provide your hedgehog with a varied diet to ensure they’re getting all of the essential nutrients they need. Offer a mix of commercial hedgehog food, insects, and small amounts of fruits and vegetables. Avoid offering the same foods every day and switch it up to provide a balanced diet. If you’re not sure what kind of variety to offer, consult a veterinarian for guidance.

So basically, understanding the frequency of feeding, portion size, and variety in diet is essential to providing your hedgehog with the best nutrition possible. By working with a veterinarian, you can ensure that your hedgehog is getting the proper amounts and types of food to keep them healthy and happy.

Water sources for hedgehogs include fresh water in a dish, a water bottle, or a misting bottle. It is important to change the water daily and clean the dish/bottle regularly to prevent bacterial buildup.

It is also recommended to provide multiple sources of water, as hedgehogs can be picky and may prefer one over the other. Some hedgehogs may prefer drinking from a dish, while others may prefer a bottle.

Signs of dehydration include sunken eyes, dry nose, and loose skin that doesn’t spring back quickly when pinched. If a hedgehog is dehydrated, it’s important to offer more water and seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

So ultimately, providing proper hydration for hedgehogs is essential for their overall health. Be sure to provide multiple sources of clean water, monitor for signs of dehydration, and seek veterinary care if necessary.

It’s crucial to be mindful of the foods to avoid when feeding hedgehogs as they can be harmful to their health and well-being. Some common items to avoid include:

– Dairy products
– Avocados
– Alcohol
– Chocolate
– Meat and fish
– High-fat foods
– Onions and garlic
– Sugary and processed foods

It’s important to provide hedgehogs with a balanced diet that includes high-quality, commercial hedgehog food, vegetables, and insects. Avoid giving them human food or table scraps, as it can negatively impact their health and disrupt their digestive system.

It’s also recommended to provide a source of protein and calcium through insects such as mealworms, crickets, and earthworms, as well as fresh produce such as blueberries, strawberries, and bananas. Avoid feeding your hedgehog dairy products, fatty or sugary foods, and raw meat or fish. A balanced diet is crucial for the overall health and well-being of your hedgehog.