to make sure your hedgehog is healthy, we recommend
ANNUAL EXAMS.
During these visits, a Broomfield Veterinary Hospital veterinarian will examine your pet and address any questions you have.
or call us at (303) 466-1764.
Here at Broomfield Veterinary Hospital, we want your spiky, tiny-pawed friend to be healthy throughout their life, just as much as you do. That’s why we recommend that you bring them in for a comprehensive wellness exam at least once a year. This exam includes a check of your hedgehog’s weight, ears, eyes nose, mouth, skin, and abdomen.
If you’ve noticed any abnormalities, such as those below, be sure to let us know, as they could be signs of an illness:
- Weight loss or gain
- Lethargy
- Loose or reduced stool or reduced or bloody urine
- Labored breathing or panting
- Nasal or eye discharge
- Coughing
- Paralysis
Caring for Your Hedgehog at Home
In addition to the annual wellness exam, the team at Broomfield Veterinary Hospital recommends that you remember a few key factors about giving your hedgehog the best care at home, including:
Diet
When it comes to hedgehog care, it’s essential to address concerns about obesity. While hedgehogs are insectivores and do enjoy mealworms and crickets, it’s important to understand that these should be provided as treats in moderation. A recommended guideline is to offer 1-2 insects per day to prevent overfeeding. The primary diet of a captive hedgehog should consist of a high-quality, low-fat, and high-protein hedgehog formulated diet. One reputable brand that meets these criteria is Mazuri.
Feeding hedgehogs with cat food, which was once a common practice, is now considered outdated. We recommend removing cat food from their diet and focusing on a balanced and nutritionally complete hedgehog formulated diet for their overall well-being.
Housing
Your hedgehog’s enclosure should be at least 2’ x 3’ with high walls and a lid to prevent escape. You can choose between a glass aquarium or smooth-sided plastic or wire cage. Make sure their bedding is soft and absorbent. It’s also important to provide hiding places and a solid exercise wheel for play and exercise.
Temperature
Unlike other small mammals, hedgehogs can go into a hibernation state if the temperature around them is too hot or too cold. Keep your hedgehog’s enclosure at around 80°F at all times, if possible.
Behavior
Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals that use their spikes as a defense mechanism. If they feel threatened, they will instinctually curl up in a ball to protect themselves against the source of danger.
We’ll be happy to discuss these topics with you more in detail at your next visit.
