Hedgehogs are becoming increasingly popular as pets, and it’s no wonder why!
They’re a low-maintenance pet that doesn’t require too much space, plus they’re incredibly cute!
But, before you bring home your very own hedgehog, there are some things you should know.
Read on to learn more about what makes hedgehogs great pets and how to care for them.
What Makes Hedgehogs Great Pets?
Hedgehogs make great pets because they don’t require a lot of space or maintenance.
Unlike cats and dogs, hedgehogs are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, food, and exercise requirements.
Plus, they’re quite tidy creatures who will keep their living space clean if given the opportunity.
And did we mention how adorable they are?
With their wide eyes and snouty noses, hedgehogs are hard not to love!
Caring for Your Hedgehog
When caring for your hedgehog, it’s important to create an environment that is comfortable for them.
You’ll need a cage or tank that is large enough for them to move around in with plenty of room for a sleeping area, toys, and other items like tunnels or bridges.
It also needs to be well-ventilated but not drafty; heat lamps may also be necessary depending on the temperature in your home or apartment.
The bedding should be made out of paper-based material such as shredded paper bedding rather than wood shavings which can irritate the hedgehog’s skin.
You’ll also want to provide hiding places, so they feel secure enough to sleep during the day and explore at night when they’re most active.
How To Set Up A Hedgehog Habitat
Setting up a hedgehog habitat is truly fun and rewarding!
To get started, you will need plenty of hiding spots as well as toys to keep your creature occupied.
Put substrate in the bottom of the cage and make sure it consists of something like Aspen bedding, newspaper pellets, or paper towel rolls.
Then decorate with some fun decorations such as cardboard houses, paper towel tubes, and empty toilet paper rolls.
Next up comes the food bowl and water bottle – yes, hedgehogs require fresh water every day!
Finally, consider providing some interactive activities like tunnels made out of old cups or even chewable items like apple slices for your little friend to enjoy.
Setting up a perfect habitat for your hedgehog guarantees hours of delight for both you and your pet – so go ahead and make it happen!
Diet
When it comes to feeding your new pet hedgehog, you’ll want to provide a diet consisting mainly of insects such as mealworms, crickets, or wax worms as well as some fruits and vegetables like apples or carrots (just make sure these snacks aren’t too big!).
Avoid feeding your pet anything with sugar or artificial sweeteners since this can cause health problems in small animals like hedgehogs.
Lastly, make sure the water bowl is always filled with fresh water each day so your little friend stays hydrated!
With regular care and attention from its owner, a pet hedgehog can live up to 8 years old!
Just remember that hedgies enjoy the company of humans just like other pets, so be sure to spend quality time with them now and then!
Are Hedgehogs Good Pets For Children?
When considering whether to bring a pet into your home, you can’t go wrong with the lovable hedgehog!
Children that are responsible and patient enough to look after one of these spiky critters will reap many rewards.
Hedgehogs require a lot of care and attention but have the potential to become very attached to their human companions.
They can display signs of affection such as hopping around when you enter the room or making chirping noises when they’re excited.
As long as proper precautions are taken, having a hedgehog as a family pet can help children learn valuable lessons in compassionate animal ownership while providing great entertainment.
Introducing A Hedgehog Into Your Home
Introducing a hedgehog into a home can be one of the most rewarding experiences one can have as a pet owner.
The first step is to create a safe, warm, and environmentally sound habitat for your little companion with plenty of exercise space as well as areas to explore and relax.
It’s then time to pick out the perfect bedding and accessories like hideouts and play items.
Once the perfect cozy corner has been made, it’s time to give your new friend some tender loving nothing-hedgehogs-love-more-than-a-good-cuddle care.
Making sure that their food and water are changed regularly, they are kept at the right temperature, and that they get plenty of attention during active hours will go a long way in making them feel like part of the family.
And once settled in, you’ll quickly find yourself in love with these curious little creatures!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an easy-to-care-for pet that doesn’t take up too much space but still provides plenty of affection, then look no further than a pet hedgehog!
With proper care and attention from their owner, these small mammals can live up to 8 years old — making them an excellent choice for long-term companionship in any home!
So if you’re ready for a fun new addition to your life then consider bringing home one of these spiky friends today!