Answer: Yes, hedgehogs can be litter trained. They tend to designate a corner of their cage to use as a bathroom. You can place a litter box in this spot with unscented, safe bedding, and many hedgehogs will use it.
Can hedgehogs be kept in pairs?
Answer: It’s generally not recommended to keep two hedgehogs together, as they are solitary animals. They can become territorial, and fights may occur. If you want multiple hedgehogs, it’s best to house them separately to prevent stress or injury.
Do hedgehogs hibernate?
Answer: Wild hedgehogs hibernate during the winter months, but hedgehogs in captivity typically do not hibernate. However, they may go into a state of dormancy if they are kept in an environment that is too cold. Make sure your pet hedgehog’s living space is kept at a stable, warm temperature.
Do hedgehogs need a lot of exercise?
Answer: Yes, hedgehogs are active and require regular exercise. A running wheel is essential to their physical health. Make sure the wheel is appropriately sized to avoid injury, and provide time outside of the cage for supervised exploration if possible.
What is “hedgehog obesity,” and how can I prevent it?
Answer: Hedgehog obesity is a common health problem caused by overfeeding or a lack of exercise. To prevent this, provide a balanced diet and avoid giving too many high-calorie treats. Ensure they get plenty of exercise through a running wheel and regular playtime.
Hedgehog Myths
Myth: Hedgehogs are nocturnal and only active at night.
Truth: While hedgehogs are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night, they are also crepuscular, which means they can be active at dawn or dusk. They often adjust their activity patterns based on their environment, and some may even become more active during the day if they feel safe and comfortable.
Myth: Hedgehogs are low-maintenance and don’t need much care.
Truth: Hedgehogs require regular care and attention. They need a proper diet, clean bedding, temperature control, regular exercise, and regular handling to stay healthy and happy. They are not as “hands-off” as some other pets like fish or hamsters.
Myth: Hedgehogs can live on a diet of only dry cat food.
Truth: While dry cat food can be a part of a hedgehog’s diet, it should not be the only food they eat. Hedgehogs are omnivores and need a varied diet and specially formulated hedgehog food. Feeding only dry cat food can lead to nutritional imbalances and health problems like obesity.
Myth: Hedgehogs are smelly and need frequent baths.
Truth: Hedgehogs themselves are not inherently smelly, but their cages can become dirty quickly if not cleaned regularly. Hedgehogs only need baths when they get particularly dirty or have skin issues. Overbathing can strip their natural oils and cause skin problems.
