What Can Hedgehogs Eat?
Hedgehogs are becoming increasingly popular as pets, and it’s important to provide them with the right diet. Knowing what they can and cannot eat is important for the health and wellbeing of your pet hedgehog.
The Basics Of A Hedgehog Diet
The best diet for your hedgehog consists of:
- High-quality, commercially available hedgehog food
- Small amounts of cooked meats such as beef, chicken, and turkey
- Fruits, vegetables, and certain nuts
- Insects such as mealworms and crickets
Commercial hedgehog foods are designed to give your pet hedgehog all the nutrients it needs to stay healthy. These foods should make up the majority of their diet.
Fruits and Vegetables for Hedgehogs
Fruits and vegetables can be a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber for your hedgehog. Fruits and vegetables that are okay for your pet hedgehog to eat include:
- Apples (no seeds)
- Berries
- Carrots
- Mushrooms
- Peaches
- Sweet potatoes
Be sure to remove any pits, seeds, or stems before feeding any fruits and vegetables to your hedgehog.
Protein For Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs also need to get some protein in their diet. Protein options that you can give your pet hedgehog include:
- Cooked beef, chicken, and turkey
- Insects such as mealworms, crickets, and waxworms
- Eggs
- Fruits1
- Nuts
Be sure to always cook meats thoroughly before feeding it to your pet hedgehog. And only feed your pet a few insects and nuts each day, as they can be high in fat and calories.
Foods To Avoid
Certain foods can be toxic to your hedgehog, and should be avoided. These include:
- Avocados
- Chocolate
- Yogurt
- Onions
- Caffeinated drinks
- Sugar
It’s also important to avoid feeding your pet hedgehog dog or cat food. While these foods may be high in protein, they are often not formulated to meet the specific nutritional needs of a hedgehog.
Conclusion
With a balanced diet of high-quality commercial food, fruits, vegetables, and proteins, you can keep your pet hedgehog healthy and happy. Be sure to research any food you are considering feeding your hedgehog and always avoid any foods that are known to be toxic.
1 Fruits such as bananas, strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are all safe for hedgehogs to eat, though not recommended in large amounts.
