Hedgehogs: The Ultimate Guide to Care, Costs, and Health

Are you considering getting a hedgehog as a pet? These adorable little spiky creatures make great companions and can provide endless joy. However, before bringing a hedgehog into your home, it's important to understand their general information, costs, care requirements, and health needs. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about hedgehogs, from purchasing to supplies, food, and maintaining their overall well-being.

General Info

Hedgehogs are small animals characterized by their spines, which are actually specialized hairs. There are several species of hedgehogs, but the African Pygmy hedgehog is the most common one kept as a pet. These creatures are native to parts of Africa, Europe, and Asia. Hedgehogs are typically nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They have an average lifespan of 4-6 years, although some can live up to 8-10 years with proper care.

Purchasing a Hedgehog

Before purchasing a hedgehog, it's crucial to do your research and find a reputable breeder or rescue organization. Hedgehogs are not commonly found in pet stores, and it's essential to ensure that the hedgehog you're getting is healthy and well-socialized. The price of a hedgehog can vary depending on the breeder and the hedgehog's coloration, usually ranging from $100 to $300.

Hedgehogs as Pets: Hedgehogs General Info, Purchasing, Care, Cost, Keeping, Health, Supplies, Food, Breeding and More Included! The Ultimate Guide for Hedgehogs

by Lolly Brown(Kindle Edition)

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Care Requirements

Hedgehogs require a carefully designed living environment to thrive. They need a spacious cage with appropriate bedding, such as fleece or paper-based bedding, to provide comfort and absorb their waste. A hedgehog wheel is a must-have item for their physical exercise, as they love to run. It's important to maintain a consistent temperature between 72-80°F (22-27°C),as hedgehogs are sensitive to extreme temperatures.

Handling your hedgehog regularly will help them become accustomed to your presence and establish a bond with you. However, it's important to note that hedgehogs are solitary animals and may not enjoy constant handling like some other pets. Providing hiding spots and toys in their enclosure will allow them to retain their natural behaviors and provide mental stimulation.

Cost of Owning a Hedgehog

Aside from the initial purchase price, there are several ongoing costs associated with owning a hedgehog. These include food, bedding, toys, cage cleaning supplies, and regular veterinary check-ups. Hedgehogs are insectivores, and their diet primarily consists of specialized hedgehog food supplemented with occasional treats like fruits and vegetables. On average, expect to spend around $20-$30 per month on food and supplies for your hedgehog.

Maintaining Hedgehog Health

Like any pet, hedgehogs require regular veterinary check-ups to ensure they are in good health. Finding an exotics vet experienced with hedgehogs is crucial, as they have unique medical needs. Regularly inspect their spines, ears, eyes, teeth, and nails for any signs of abnormalities or injury. Hedgehogs are prone to dental issues, obesity, and respiratory infections, so maintaining a healthy diet, providing ample exercise, and monitoring their weight regularly is important.

Essential Supplies for Hedgehogs

When it comes to supplies, here is a list of essential items to consider for your hedgehog:

• Spacious cage or enclosure
• Fleece or paper-based bedding
• Water bottle or bowl
• Food dish
• Hedgehog wheel
• Hiding spots and toys
• Heating pad or lamp to maintain a consistent temperature
• Cage cleaning supplies
• Travel carrier

Nutritional Needs of Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs require a balanced and nutritious diet to thrive. A high-quality hedgehog food, commercially available, should make up the majority of their diet. This food contains essential nutrients and vitamins specifically tailored for hedgehogs. Additionally, small amounts of fruits, vegetables, and insects can be offered as treats or supplementation. It's important to avoid foods that are toxic to hedgehogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions.

Bringing a hedgehog into your home can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to be well-prepared and informed about their care, costs, and health needs. By providing a suitable living environment, a balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and plenty of love and attention, you can ensure a happy and fulfilling life for your spiky companion. Remember to do thorough research, consult with experts, and always prioritize the well-being of your hedgehog.

Hedgehogs as Pets: Hedgehogs General Info, Purchasing, Care, Cost, Keeping, Health, Supplies, Food, Breeding and More Included! The Ultimate Guide for Hedgehogs

by Lolly Brown(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2626 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	120 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

It’s an amusing little critter with many curiosities and oddities that make them all the more adorable. They are tiny enough to fit in your hand when they are small and if you are the sort who stays up most nights then a hedgehog may be the pet for you.

Hedgehogs wouldn’t be what you would consider as the typical family pet, and have some special traits, characteristics and habits which do not make them suitable for some owner situations. So, it is vital to be aware and ready for some of these characteristics even before you think about purchasing a hedgehog.

Find out everything you need to know about the hedgehog in this handy book and get to learn about its origins, behaviors, physical characteristics and also get to learn how to feed and care for them.

Hedgehogs General Info, Purchasing, Care, Cost, Keeping, Health, Supplies, Food, Breeding and More Included!