Hedgehog Care Guide

Only one species of hedgehog is legal to keep as a pet in the UK, which is the African pygmy hedgehog. It’s illegal to own a wild hedgehog and remove it from its environment, as they don’t thrive in captivity and their population is already declining. 

Hedgehogs can make delightful pets for the right person, offering unique companionship with their curious and shy nature. They are particularly well suited for individuals who appreciate observing more than handling their pets, they require a gentle touch and patience to warm up to human interaction.  

Night owls will find their nocturnal habits fascinating, as they become most active and entertaining during the evening. Their need for a specific diet and environment, along with their sensitivity to temperature and noise, means they may not be the best fit for everyone, especially those looking for a low maintenance pet. Considering these factors is crucial in determining if a hedgehog is the right addition to your family. They may not need daily walks but it’s also a bigger challenge to find accurate information on their care and needs.  

Hedgehogs are native to a wide array of geographical locations with each species adapting to its habitat. The African pygmy hedgehog, one of the most common species kept as pets, originates from Central and East Africa, thrives in savannahs and steppes. European hedgehogs are found across Europe and parts of Asia, flourish in forest areas, meadows, and even suburban gardens. Meanwhile, the desert species is adapted to the arid environments of the Middle East and North Africa. Each species showcases their adaptability, thriving in environments ranging from dense woodlands and lush meadows to deserts. These diverse habitats impact what each species needs to thrive in captivity.

Among the variety of breeds, several stand out as favourites in the pet community, each with its distinct characteristics and charm. 

The African pygmy hedgehog is by far the most popular choice of pet among the species. This breed is smaller than its wild cousins, making it a suitable companion for indoor living. They possess a friendly disposition when socialised from a young age and have a coat of spines that are less intimidating than those of larger species. Their care requires a warm environment, as they are sensitive to cold, and a diet that includes insects, fruits, and specially formulated food. 

The European hedgehog is larger and less commonly kept as a pet due to its more extensive care requirements. They are known for their ability to adapt to cooler climates and are more active outside at night. They have a varied diet that includes insects, small vertebrates, and eggs but maintaining their habitat in captivity can be challenging, making them less ideal for novice pet parents. 

The long eared hedgehog stands out with its distinctive long ears, which are larger in proportion to its body compared to other breeds. Native to desert environments, this species is highly adapted to dry conditions, requiring less humidity in their captive habitat. They tend to be more solitary and can be skittish around humans, which, combined with their unique care needs, makes them a good choice for more experienced parents. 

Each of these breeds presents a unique set of characteristics, from the African pygmy's friendly nature and manageable size to the European hedgehog's larger habitat needs and the long-eared hedgehog's distinct appearance and environmental requirements. Prospective parents should consider these differences carefully to choose the breed that best fits their lifestyle and capability to provide care. 

In the UK, hedgehogs are considered exotic pets primarily due to their unique care requirements and the unfamiliarity of the general populace with these needs. Unlike traditional pets like dogs and cats, they require a specific environment that mimics their natural habitat to thrive. This includes a controlled climate to maintain their body temperature and specialised diets.

Their nocturnal nature means they are active during times when most traditional pets and their parents are asleep. They tend to demand a level of commitment and knowledge from their parents that goes beyond the norm for more commonplace pets. There is even still a lot of discourse around if they should be kept as pets at all, especially our native species. 

With proper care, pet hedgehogs can live between four and six years, sometimes even longer. Their lifespan is a commitment that potential parents should be prepared for. While they may not live as long as other pets like dogs and cats, they still require the same level of love and care throughout their lifespan. This includes regular vet visits, proper nutrition, and a suitable living environment. Meeting their needs will keep them happy and healthy for the span of their life. 

Caring for a pet hedgehog requires more than just love and good intentions. It demands a thorough understanding of their unique needs and lifestyle. From diet and housing to mental and physical health, understanding their needs is a key aspect of care to guarantee your prickly friend enjoys a content and fulfilling life. 

Hedgehogs require a spacious cage. It should be a minimum of four square feet of floor space to roam, explore, and exercise. An ideal enclosure is a large, flat bottomed cage with a solid surface to protect their delicate feet. Considering their sensitivity to temperature, the cage should be kept in a well-regulated environment, ideally between 21°F to 26°F, to prevent hibernation or heat stress.  

They thrive in quieter areas of the house, as too much noise and activity can cause stress. It's crucial to position their cage away from draughts and out of direct sunlight, ensuring a comfortable and safe habitat. A large indoor rabbit cage like the Savic Nero 4 De Luxe Small Animal Cage makes for a good home environment or a large aquarium is often popular as they can be kept with no lid or just a wire topper to make sure there’s plenty of air circulation.  

Inside their enclosure, hedgehogs need several things to live comfortably and healthy. A cosy sleeping area, such as a small, enclosed hut or igloo like the Super Pet Guinea Pig Igloo will offer them a sense of security and a place to retreat. For feeding, shallow, heavy food bowls are recommended to prevent tipping over. Access to clean, fresh water in a similar type of bowl or a drip bottle is a must. Toys like tunnels or soft fabric for exploring and burrowing can enrich their environment.  

A running wheel is essential for their exercise; ensure it is a solid surface and large enough to accommodate their size without arching their back. The larger the wheel like the Super Pet Silent Spinner Hamster Wheel Large, the better although as they grow you need to keep an eye to make sure it’s still well suited to them. 

Choosing the right bedding for hedgehogs is pivotal for their comfort and health. Fabric liners, paper based bedding, or aspen shavings are excellent choices, providing a soft and absorbent layer that is gentle on their feet and safe if ingested. Avoid cedar or pine shavings, as their strong aromas and dust can cause respiratory issues.  

The bedding should be at least two inches deep to allow for ample burrowing and nest building, ensuring these nocturnal creatures can engage in their natural behaviours while feeling secure in their environment. Bedding like the Carefresh White Ultra Small Pet Bedding will provide a comfortable and safe material to dig around in while protecting them from respiratory illness from inhaling dust.  

A balanced diet is crucial for their health, comprising primarily of high quality dry food, rich in protein and low in fat. While it’s still often recommended to feed cat food to pet hedgehogs, you can find healthy and balanced diets made specifically for them like Spikes Dinner Dry Hedgehog Food. Their food should be supplemented with small portions of fruits and vegetables to ensure a varied diet.  

Suitable treats include cooked meats without seasoning, meat based, baby foods, and insects like crickets or mealworms, providing enrichment and mimicking their natural foraging behaviour. Moderation is key when it comes to treats to prevent obesity and other health issues. Always provide fresh, clean water and avoid milk, nuts, and avocado, which can be harmful to them. 

Keeping your hedgehog's cage clean is essential for preventing disease and ensuring a pleasant living environment. The cage should undergo a thorough cleaning at least once a week, including changing the bedding and washing the food and water dishes. Daily spot checks are recommended to remove soiled bedding and uneaten food. When cleaning, always use pet friendly, non toxic cleaning products to avoid exposing your hedgehog to harmful chemicals.  

Regular veterinary checks are paramount for maintaining a hedgehog's health and identifying any potential issues early. A yearly check-up can monitor their overall health, weight, and dental condition. They also require periodic nail trimming to prevent overgrowth, which can lead to discomfort and mobility issues. If you're unsure about the trimming process, consult your veterinarian for guidance or have them perform the trimming during a visit. 

Bathing a hedgehog should be done sparingly, only when they become particularly dirty. Use a shallow bath with lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush to gently clean their quills and feet. Avoid getting water in their ears and eyes, and always use a gentle shampoo like Johnson's Manuka Honey Shampoo. Bath time can be stressful, so ensure it's done quickly and followed by thoroughly drying them to prevent a chill. Regular grooming and veterinary care contribute significantly to their overall well being so make sure you find a vet that really knows the species.  

Hedgehogs are generally solitary animals, they will generally prefer to live alone. Housing two males together can lead to aggression, and even females may not always cohabitate peacefully. With appropriate space and environmental enrichment, some females may live together harmoniously. It all comes down to individual temperament and socialisation.  

Regarding human interaction, they can learn to enjoy handling and affection with patience and gentle care. Regular, calm interactions can help build trust, making them more receptive to cuddles and socialisation. It's important to respect their boundaries and recognise signs of stress or discomfort. With time, your prickly buddy can form a strong bond with you but some shy individuals may never seek out affection. It’s about taking it at their own pace and making sure to care for their comfort.  

When attempting to pick up a hedgehog, it's crucial to approach them calmly to minimise stress. Gently scoop them from underneath, supporting their body with both hands to make them feel secure. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle them. Initially, they may curl into a ball as a defensive response.  

Patience is key so allow them to uncurl at their own pace. To foster enjoyment in handling, start with short, positive sessions, gradually increasing the duration as they become more comfortable. Integrating treats and talking to them softly can also help to associate handling with positive experiences. Regular, stress free interactions will teach them to trust you and may lead to them seeking out your company, and enjoying the warmth and comfort of your hands. 

Hedgehogs can carry salmonella, so it's essential to wash your hands after handling them or cleaning their enclosure. Their quills can prick if they feel threatened but they don’t pose much of a threat to humans. They don’t tend to be predisposed to biting but can if they become spooked so always take things slow and at their own pace. 

They require a dedicated, understanding parent willing to meet their specific care needs. Consider your lifestyle, household environment, and ability to provide a forever home before taking one on. 

Caring for a pet hedgehog presents unique challenges but equal rewards with their quirky personalities and endearing habits. By providing the right diet, housing, and attention, they can thrive under your care, offering years of companionship. With the right preparation and mindset, the addition of a hedgehog to your home can be a delightful experience filled with learning and love. For all of your hedgehog essentials, visit us in store and online!