Hedgehog care — AEMV guide distilled
Two hedgehog species reach the pet trade: the African (white-bellied) hedgehog — the most common in the United States — and the European hedgehog. Free-ranging animals prefer insects, spiders, slugs and worms over plant matter. Captive lifespan is 4–7 years.
Housing & environment
- Use a smooth-walled, solid-bottom, escape-proof enclosure; aquariums of 20 gallons or larger are acceptable.
- Maintain the optimum temperature of 75–85°F (24–30°C) and prevent chilling — most homes need a heated area. Provide climbing/hiding accessories and a solid-bottom exercise wheel.
- Bedding: newspaper or recycled material several inches deep, kept dry. Avoid pine, cedar and corn cob.
Diet & nutrition
Hedgehogs are omnivorous, high in protein and low in fat — high-fat foods hurt health and longevity, so ad-lib feeding of adults should be discouraged; feed once daily in the late afternoon/evening. A sample adult daily diet: 2–3 tbsp low-fat, high-protein chicken/meat-based cat food; 1–2 tbsp mixed fresh vegetables; 3–5 insects 3–4 times weekly. Fresh water always; weigh at least monthly.
Behavior & veterinary care
Hedgehogs are nocturnal. The African pygmy is essentially non-domesticated and can be extremely timid — handle daily to keep tame. They may "anoint" (hypersalivate and foam onto themselves) at new odors. Take your hedgehog to an exotic mammal veterinarian for a bi-annual exam; routine dental cleanings reduce periodontal disease.
Common disorders
AEMV lists (for African Pygmy): cancer (especially over 3 years); dental disease; dermatitis (mange mites, ringworm); enteritis (including Salmonellosis); fatty liver; gastrointestinal parasites; obesity; ocular injuries; Pneumonia; and Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (progressive demyelinating paralysis).
Sources
aemv_care_guide_hedgehog— AEMV Exotics Companion Care Series (hedgehog): African/white-bellied most common US; lifespan 4–7 yr; housing 75–85°F, 20-gal+ aquarium, solid-bottom wheel, avoid pine/cedar/corn cob; omnivorous high-protein/low-fat, discourage ad lib, sample diet 2–3 tbsp cat food + veg + insects; nocturnal, anointing; bi-annual exam; disorder list incl. Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome.