We love hedgehogs! At Companion Animal Hospital in Suwannee County, FL, our veterinarians often remind families that hedgehogs may be tiny, but they require big care. These nocturnal insectivores need specialized housing, a carefully balanced diet, and routine veterinary visits. With the right knowledge, you can meet all your hedgehog care needs and enjoy years with your spiky companion. If you’ve been searching for a vet near me in Suwannee County who understands exotic pets, our veterinary clinic is here for you.
In this blog, we’ll explore hedgehog diet tips, safe housing for hedgehogs, and the essentials of exotic pet hedgehog care.
Housing for Hedgehogs
Enclosure
- At least 4 square feet per hedgehog, ideally larger
- Solid flooring to protect delicate feet
- Escape-proof walls or lids
Temperature
- Optimal: 72–80°F
- Too cold can trigger hibernation attempts, which are dangerous for pet hedgehogs
- Use ceramic heaters or heating pads; avoid unsafe heat lamps
Bedding
- Paper-based bedding or fleece liners are safest
- Clean weekly with daily spot cleaning
Enrichment
- Exercise wheel (solid, not wire)
- Hides, tunnels, and climbing toys
- Regular rotation of enrichment to prevent boredom
Hedgehog Diet Tips
Core Diet
- High-protein, low-fat hedgehog or quality cat kibble
- Supplement with gut-loaded insects (mealworms, crickets, dubia roaches)
- Fresh veggies and occasional fruit
Foods to Avoid
- Grapes, raisins, avocado, chocolate, onions, nuts, and processed foods
Feeding Schedule
- Offer food in the evening, since hedgehogs are nocturnal
- Monitor weight—obesity is one of the most common health issues we treat
Exotic Pet Hedgehog Care: Health and Grooming
Common Health Problems
- Obesity: Lack of exercise and excess treats
- Dental disease: Poor diets without proper kibble texture
- Skin mites: Cause quill loss and itching
- Respiratory infections: From drafts or poor hygiene
- Cancer: Sadly common in older hedgehogs
Grooming Basics
- Trim nails regularly—overgrown nails affect mobility
- Baths are rarely needed; foot soaks may help if bedding sticks
- Brushing gently with a soft toothbrush can remove debris
Handling and Bonding
Hedgehogs roll into balls when nervous, but with gentle handling, they learn to relax. Tips include:
- Scoop from underneath—never grab from above
- Handle during quiet evening hours when they’re naturally active
- Use bonding pouches or small blankets for comfort
- Be patient—trust builds slowly over time
Fun Facts About Hedgehogs
- A group of hedgehogs is called a “prickle.”
- Hedgehogs can run several miles a night on their wheels.
- They self-anoint with frothy saliva when exposed to new scents.
- Despite their quills, hedgehogs are very social with trusted humans.
Want to learn more? PetMD has a blog on hedgehog care, which you can find here. Spruce Pets also has an article on hedgehogs. Read it here. We also did a prior post on hedgehogs, which you can find here.
FAQ: Hedgehog Care Basics
Do hedgehogs need companions?
No. Most prefer solitary living and can become stressed with cage mates.
How often should I clean their enclosure?
Spot-clean daily and deep-clean weekly.
Can hedgehogs eat insects daily?
Yes, but balance is key. Insects should supplement, not replace, a complete diet.
How long do hedgehogs live?
Typically 4–6 years, sometimes up to 8 with excellent care.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Suwannee County Vets
Looking for a vet near me who understands hedgehog care? At Companion Animal Hospital in Suwannee County, FL, our veterinarians can help with hedgehog diet tips, safe housing for hedgehogs, and overall exotic pet hedgehog care. Call us today to schedule a wellness visit for your spiky pal.
Visit our Service page here for more information on our Live Oak, FL animal clinic and the pets we treat.
This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult your veterinarian for individualized advice, diagnosis, or treatment for your hedgehog.
