For a hedgehog house, use natural materials like dry leaves, hay, or straw for outdoor boxes, as hedgehogs burrow and build nests from these, while for indoor pet hedgehogs, fleece liners, shredded paper bedding (not dusty), or kiln-dried aspen/pine shavings are great choices, avoiding cedar. The key is soft, dust-free material that allows for burrowing, whether you're providing for a wild hedgehog or a pet.
Hedgehogs like to burrow so the more bedding the better for them. Recycled paper bedding and towels or blankets are often used inside the enclosure.
I have switched to soft barley straw as I have seen this recommended by more hedgehog rescues. It is important to point out that other straws are far too spiky and hard. This can injure our UK hogs. Hay, on the other hand, is softer and preferred by others, but it can quickly go damp and mouldy in our wet winters.
IN THE WILD
Efficient winter nests are essential if hedgehogs are to survive hibernation. In autumn they begin to collect dry leaves, grass, bracken, reeds etc. and use these materials for building their own nests at the bottom of hedgerows, fallen logs or piles of brushwood.
Hedgehogs appreciate a soft bedding material like hay or shredded newspaper for warmth. A hinged lid makes it easy to clean and check on your spiky visitors.
You can also put bedding inside the box to give them a head start, such as leaves, straw or hay.
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.
Make your hedgehog home
Whether you make your own or buy one, fill the chamber of your hedgehog home with a layer of dead, dry leaves.
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.
A recycled newspaper bedding (Carefresh or similar product) should be used as a substrate for your hedgehog. Make the bedding several inches thick as hedgehogs like to burrow. The bedding should be replaced at least weekly, and changed more often as needed.
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.
Our observations show that nesting Mums often leave their young ones to rest elsewhere. That rest is often through the first and last part of the night but can also be in the day time. Routinely we expect to see hedgehogs come out in the evening around 9.30pm and go back to bed by 5am.
As pets, hedgehogs can recognize and remember their owners' scent and voice, making them a loyal and affectionate companion. They can also quickly learn routines and habits, such as when it's time to eat or play.
Hedgehogs enjoy rooting around in bedding. A two to three inch thick layer of bedding is recommended for many types of pelleted litter and shavings. Only the soiled portions of the litter need to be removed on a regular basis.
Bedding / Cage Liners
Choose safe, absorbent, and easy-to-clean bedding. Carefresh Complete Bedding or a Fleece Tray Liner are both excellent options. Avoid loose threads or unsafe materials that can tangle around toes.
Put some shredded newspaper and dry straw inside to start the nest. Cover the box with some roofing felt or pond liner. This will keep it dry and extend its life. Finally cover the box with leaves, compost, soil or branches to provide insulation and improve the overall appearance.
Hedgehogs often comfort their owners with cuddles, licks, and offer their paws or cuddly bellies for rubs. Their defences completely drop if they are able to form a close connection with their hedgie parents.
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.
Although hedgehogs do bite, their tiny teeth are unlikely to cause you very much pain. The force of a hedgehog bite is typically linked to what your pet is feeling. An angry hedgehog could cause a bite that hurts a bit.
Best Toys for Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs typically hibernate from autumn to spring (October - March), but this can vary depending on the temperature and food available.
Live insects can be fed three to four times per week. Each serving should consist of one cricket or large mealworm or two to three medium sized mealworms. If you elect not to feed live, dry insect food can make up 15 to 25% of your hedgehog's daily meal.
Insects are a favorite for hedgehogs. You can offer live bugs, which will also give your tiny buddy the chance to 'hunt' his dinner. Frozen ones are fine as well. Mealworms, wax worms, silk worms and crickets are all good options.
Negative Aspects of Owning a Hedgehog
Dairy products such as milk and cheese should also be avoided. Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant, and consuming dairy can cause diarrhoea and illness. Similarly, avoid sweet treats like raisins, sultanas, and dried berries, which can lead to tooth decay and digestive issues due to their high sugar content.