Yes, you should bathe your hedgehog, but not too often (around once a month is common) because frequent bathing dries out their skin, leading to issues like flaky skin or "poopy boots" (feces stuck to feet). Use warm water (like a baby's), gentle baby shampoo, and a soft toothbrush for scrubbing, keeping soap out of their face and ears. Always rinse thoroughly and dry them completely afterward to prevent chills.
Bathing Your Hedgehog: A Splash of Clean
Hedgehogs don't need frequent baths—too much washing can dry out their skin. Stick to occasional baths when your hedgehog gets dirty , has feces stuck to their feet or starts to smell (yes, that happens).
It is necessary to fully bathe your hedgehog at least once a month. I have heard of some hedgehog owners who bathe their hedgehog weekly and some who bathe monthly.
Hedgehogs don't love bath time, but it's important to give them a bath every now and then to keep them clean and healthy. Here are a few tips to make bath time easier: Use a shallow container filled with warm water. Hedgehogs don't like deep water, so a small tub or basin is ideal.
Hedgehogs will need to be bathed about every 2 to 4 weeks or when he/she looks dirty. Fill your sink with lukewarm water so your hedgehog can't touch the bottom. Keep your hand under him/her to be sure he/she is safe. Use your other hand to pour water over the quills to get them wet.
You will know your hedgehog is ready for a bath when it looks dirty, has dry skin, “poopy boots” (dirty feet from, well, you know!), or anointed spots of dried “stuff”. Hedgehogs do not groom or clean themselves like some animals.
This decline is partly due to a loss of natural habitat, which provides both shelter and food for hedgehogs. Fencing, pesticides, garden hazards (like ponds, strimmers and netting) and development and construction also have an impact. And of course, cars are a major threat to hedgehogs, killing thousands each year.
Hedgehogs are known to be very communicative when it comes to their needs, and often make a low purring sound when they are happy or content.
What not to feed hedgehogs The following foods should be avoided when feeding hedgehogs:-
* Be sure that you have rinsed all the soap off, then wrap your pet in a towel and gently pat them dry. Since the quills make it very difficult to get your hedgehog completely dry, be sure that they have a warm absorbent snuggle sack to crawl into. Never take your pet outside after a bath; not even on a warm day.
Hedgehogs require daily handling in order to socialize them. It is best to handle your hedgehog with bare hands instead of blankets or gloves so they will be better acclimated to your touch. If your hedgehog has its spines erect, use your hands as scoops on either side and gently scoop him up from the bottom.
Most hedgehog owners only provide a traditional bath to clean a dirty pet hedgehog but in addition to the fun of a dust bath there may be some benefits. HedgeMom posted on Hedgehog Central that she has many hedgehogs that seek out and play in spilled chinchilla dust.
Not all hedgehogs instantly use the litter pan but don't give up because with a little coaching on your part it may be persuaded. Place droppings inside the pan to help clue in the hedgehog where it should go. Litter box training hedgehogs is very similar to cats.
Leave out food and water
Leaving food and fresh water out in the garden each night will encourage visiting hedgehogs to return regularly. Try tinned meaty cat or dog food and crushed cat or dog biscuits. Place the food and water in shallow bowls so they can access them easily.
Toxic foods for hedgehogs include chocolate, caffeine, dairy products, and certain fruits like grapes and citrus. It's essential to avoid these items to ensure your hedgehog's health and well-being. Always consult your veterinarian for specific dietary advice.
The British Hedgehog Society recommends that in captivity adults should be fed a meat- based tinned dog or cat food mixed with unsweetened cereal (Weetabix, oats or bran). Complete dry cat biscuits are good for the teeth.
Only solid bottom cages are suitable for hedgehogs, any wire bottom cages could trap their legs or rip off toenails. Provide a soft bedding free of dust, such as recycled paper pellets or if you use wood shavings use only kiln dried pine or aspen. Do not use cedar shavings as they could irritate your hedgehog's lungs.
The more the attachment develops between you and your hedgehog, the more you will grow to love and enjoy your pet. Some hedgehogs will bond to their owners for life (HHC). Bonding does require effort, persistence, and an understanding of hedgehogs.
If your hedgehog is unusually still in the evening—sleeping in short, restless bursts, waking and dozing repeatedly, or staying sluggish when they would normally explore—it can be a sign of unhappiness or even illness.
Just like any other pet, hedgehogs love treats. Waxworms are a favorite with these guys. You can also offer Hedgie some cooked chicken, turkey, or egg. Low fat/high protein wet cat or dog food is also fine, as is the occasional pinky mouse.
No, hedgehogs will only sleep in a nest during the day, so any hedgehog lying out on the lawn will be very poorly and will need to be picked up and taken to your nearest wildlife hospital as soon as possible.
Negative Aspects of Owning a Hedgehog
However, when compared to ferrets, monkeys, dogs, cats and squirrels; hedgehogs don't score quite so high on the critter IQ test. Hedgehogs can easily learn to recognize their owners and things that are “food” related, but as far as tricks are concerned, don't be surprised if you don't have much success.