Caring for a pet hedgehog can be rewarding but requires some specific knowledge. Here's a beginner-friendly guide to help you get started:

1. Choosing a Hedgehog

· Species: The African Pygmy Hedgehog is the most common pet species.

· Temperament: They can be shy or friendly depending on their upbringing and socialization.

2. Habitat Setup

· Cage Size: Minimum 2ft x 3ft (larger is better); no wire flooring.

· Bedding: Use paper-based bedding or fleece liners. Avoid cedar or pine shavings.

· Hideouts: Provide a hiding place like a small house or igloo.

· Temperature: Keep between 72–80°F (22–27°C) to prevent hibernation.

· Lighting: 12 hours of light daily helps maintain their internal clock.

3. Diet

· Main Food: High-quality dry cat food or commercial hedgehog food.

· Treats: Mealworms, crickets, fruits (like apples), and veggies in moderation.

· Water: Always available, preferably in a water bottle or a shallow dish.

4. Exercise & Enrichment

· Wheel: A solid-surface exercise wheel (no wire wheels).

· Playtime: Daily out-of-cage time in a safe, enclosed area.

· Toys: Tunnels, chew toys, and small balls.

5. Grooming & Health

· Nail Trimming: Regularly to prevent overgrowth.

· Bathing: Only when necessary; use warm water and a soft toothbrush.

· Vet Care: Find an exotic pet vet. Annual check-ups are recommended.

6. Handling Tips

· Be patient and gentle; let your hedgehog sniff you first.

· Handle regularly to build trust.

· Hedgehogs may curl up or hiss if scared—give them time.

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

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!