Welcome to the world of pet hedgehogs! As an owner, you may be wondering what these spiky little creatures eat and how much should they have. Hedgehogs are a unique species that require a specific diet in order to stay healthy and happy. In this article, we will discuss the different types of food that pet hedgehogs can enjoy as well as their feeding habits and nutritional needs. We hope you find this information useful for providing your hedgehog with the best nutrition possible.
What Do Pet Hedgehogs Eat?
Pet hedgehogs can enjoy a variety of foods and treats. A nutritionally balanced diet should consist of:
- High-quality commercial hedgehog food: Commercial hedgehog food is specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of pet hedgehogs. Look for products that contain fresh, high-quality ingredients and are free from fillers or artificial preservatives.
- Insects: Hedgehogs naturally eat insects such as crickets, mealworms, waxworms, and earthworms. Insects provide essential nutrients like calcium and protein that help keep your pet healthy.
- Fruits & Vegetables: Small amounts of fruits and vegetables like berries, apples, carrots, spinach, etc., can be offered as occasional treats. These should not constitute more than 10% of your hedgie’s diet.
The Best Foods to Feed Your Hedgehog
Hedgehogs are omnivores, meaning that they eat both plants and animals. As such, it is important to feed them a variety of foods in order to provide them with all of the essential nutrients they need for good health. Here are some of the best foods for your hedgehog:
Vegetables:
- Carrots
- Peas
- Bell peppers
- Cucumbers
Hedgehog Diet: What Foods do Hedgehogs Enjoy Eating?
The diet of a hedgehog varies depending on the species and individual. Generally, they enjoy eating insects, fruits, vegetables, and commercially available hedgehog food. To ensure your pet has a healthy diet, it is important to offer variety.
Insects
Insects make up the majority of most wild hedgehog diets. Popular choices include crickets, mealworms, wax worms and earthworms. Insects are an excellent source of protein for your pet hedgehog.
Fruits & Vegetables
A small amount of fresh fruits or vegetables can be offered as treats or snacks in addition to their main diet. Some popular choices include apple slices (without seeds), blueberries, carrots (cooked or raw) and spinach.
Commercially Available Hedgehog Food
- Premium Dry Cat Food: Dry cat food formulated specifically for hedgehogs is readily available at pet stores and online retailers.
- Pellets: These ready-to-eat pellets are fortified with vitamins and minerals that provide complete nutrition for your pet’s daily needs.
- Wet Canned Food: Canned wet foods designed specifically for hedgehogs can also be found at pet stores. They typically contain more moisture than dry foods so they can help keep your pet hydrated.
It is always best to consult with a veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet or adding any new foods. This will help ensure that your hedgehog receives all the proper nutrients necessary for good health.
Fruits and Vegetables That Wild Hedgehogs Can Enjoy
Wild hedgehogs, like their domesticated counterparts, are omnivores that enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables. While there are some food items to avoid, such as fruit pits or onions, most fruits and veggies can be enjoyed in moderation.
Safe Fruits
- Apples: Offer small pieces of apple without the core or seeds for your pet hedgehog.
- Bananas: Peel and offer small slices of banana for your pet hedgehog.
- Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries—all these make great snacks!
- Cantaloupe: Remove the skin first before offering cantaloupe to your pet hedgehog.
- Grapes: Small grapes cut into halves or quarters make a great treat!
- Watermelon: Cut off a piece of watermelon flesh with no seeds and offer it in small amounts.
Safe Vegetables
- Carrots: Shredded carrots make an excellent snack for wild hedgehogs.
- Celery: Cut celery stalks into manageable pieces before offering them to wild hedgehogs.
- Lettuce: Dark, leafy greens like lettuce are a great choice for wild hedgehogs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pet hedgehogs should be fed a balanced diet of high-quality commercial cat and dog food supplemented with mealworms, crickets, fruits, and vegetables. A variety of foods can help ensure that your pet hedgehog stays healthy and active. However, avoid giving your hedgehog too many treats or sugary snacks since this can cause health issues. With the right diet plan in place and regular veterinary checkups, your pet hedgehog will live a long and happy life!
