Hedgehogs are small exotic pets that are becoming increasingly popular. Caring for a hedgehog is easy, but they have some special needs.
The hedgehog is an interesting, exotic pet that is becoming very popular. Hedgehogs are cute little furless creatures that are quite timid. According to "Exotic Pet Care" published by Wingers Publishing, hedgehogs are usually friendly. Some mature hedgehogs do not like to be held and will try to get away. Hedgehogs rarely bite, but they may curl up into a ball, puff out their quills, and hiss when frightened. "Exotic Pet Care" goes on to say, hedgehogs will sometimes behave strangely by salivating and foaming at the mouth. They may react this way when something new, such as an unfamiliar odor, is encountered. This behavior is quite normal and should not be a cause for concern.
The same article recommends housing a hedgehog in an enclosure that has a solid bottom and sides high enough to prevent escape. Aquariums and pet taxis make good enclosures. They can be lined with pine shavings or shredded newspaper. To help keep the cage clean for a longer period of time, droppings should be removed each day. The entire cage should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a week, depending on the type of bedding being used. If strong cleaners are used, be sure to thoroughly rinse the cage to avoid exposing the hedgehog to harmful fumes. "Exotic Pet Care" suggests equipping the cage with an exercise wheel designed especially for hedgehogs. Wire wheels are not safe for hedgehogs and should not be used. Since hedgehogs are timid creatures, you may want to provide a place to hide within the cage. A paper lunch sack works well, since it is disposable and easily replaced.
A hedgehog's diet should consist of food that is formulated especially for hedgehogs, according to "Exotic Pet Care". An adult hedgehog should be fed approximately 1 tablespoon of hedgehog food per day along with five or six meal worms and one or two crickets. Hedgehogs can also be fed a mixture of fruits and vegetables such as spinach, or lettuce, diced apple, carrot, banana, and raisins or grapes. This mixture should amount to approximately one and one half teaspoons. One quarter teaspoon of a crushed, feline multi-vitamin should be mixed in. "Exotic Pet Care" suggests using a water bottle with a drinking tube or a crock to provide a hedgehog's drinking water. The bottle or crock should be cleaned with hot, soapy water on a daily basis.
