Hedgehogs bathe in shallow, warm water using mild cleansers like unscented baby shampoo, oatmeal-based washes (such as Aveeno), or even just water, often with a soft toothbrush to clean quills and feet; the key is warm (not hot) water, gentle scrubbing, thorough rinsing, and complete drying to prevent chills, using a towel to "burrito" them dry.
Most tear-free baby shampoos are safe to use on your hedgehog. Our favorite is Aveeno oatmeal baby shampoo but other breeders prefer Johnson's and Johnson's lavender baby wash. Trial or sample sizes work well because a little bit will go a long way. Pet shampoos are generally safe for hedgehogs.
One of the best ways to support Hedgehogs is by offering them a regular supply of water. This handy hedgehog water bowl will allow you to do just that. Made from hi-fired, frost-resistant ceramic, the water bowl is finished in an attractive green and brown glazed finish. It's suitable for year-round use.
a drop of Dawn dish soap is okay too. Dry your hedgehog off with a towel when finished and keep warm. If you notice your hedgehog is itching and scratching excessively then add a teaspoon or so of Aveeno oatmeal bath powder (available at Target) to the bathwater.
Even for Madagascar hedgehog tenrecs, self care is so important. This little fellow is taking a dust bath and scent-anointing (rubbing the new scent into his spines). Keepers give our tenrecs novel scents and substrates as enrichment to encourage this natural behavior.
To wash your hedgehog, you can use Aveeno Baby Wash, Baby Shampoo, or a mild unscented liquid hand soap. Pour a dime size portion in your hands and lather it up, then gently rub it over the back, belly, and legs while avoiding the face and ears.
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.
Bathing Frequency
Many people get confused about how often they should bathe their hedgehogs. Your vet should be the ultimate authority here. That said, in general, about once a month is good. Don't bathe your pet too often: this could dry out his skin!
Cages should be emptied and cleaned at least once a week with soap and water. Bedding should be replaced weekly. Food and water bowls should be cleaned daily with soap and water. Your hedgehog's cage should be spot cleaned once a day to remove and feces, wet/soiled bedding, and leftover food.
Wash Hands Thoroughly: Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water right after touching, feeding, or caring for a hedgehog or cleaning its enclosure. Play Safely: Don't kiss or snuggle hedgehogs, because this can spread Salmonella germs to your face and mouth.
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.
What not to feed hedgehogs The following foods should be avoided when feeding hedgehogs:-
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.
Pet hedgehogs are one of several animals that can carry Salmonella and other diseases, even when the animals do not appear to be sick. People can be infected during routine care for their pet hedgehogs, which can shed bacteria that can contaminate cages, toys, bedding or household surfaces.
Hedgehogs poop a lot. According to experts, these animals poop all the time because they have a fast metabolism. Young hedgehogs seem to have no control over their bowels, and as such, they seemingly enjoy pooping wherever and whenever they find the opportunity.
Hedgehogs will not usually eat and sleep in the same place so it's best not to offer food inside the home (except perhaps to tempt them in initially). Once there is a resident, move food away from the box so as not to attract predators or rival hedgehogs to the site.
Strimmers and garden tools can kill and injure hedgehogs who choose to make their nests in long grass, hedges and compost heaps. Please check all areas before strimming, forking over or cutting down foliage to prevent injuries from occurring.
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.
So, do hedgehogs poop a lot? To put it plainly, yes! Like any other small animal, they do their business quite frequently throughout the day within their habitat. But unlike other animals, hedgehog waste tends to run slightly bigger.
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. Refresh daily, disposing of food if it's not been eaten.
What should I never feed a hedgehog? Foods that are toxic to hedgehogs...
Hedgehogs mainly eat creepy crawlies
The majority of their diet is made up of invertebrates (or creepy crawlies). We know what they eat from scientific studies that have analysed hedgehog poo or looked in the stomachs of hedgehogs killed on roads.