Evanger’s Nutritional Tips: Hedgehogs

by Ian Germann

With a propensity for obesity, it’s important that hedgehog owners know how to best meet the nutritional needs of their prickly pal(s). Luckily for hedgehog owners, there’s a wide selection of healthy treats to pick from. Fruits such as apples, pears and bananas and vegetables like peas, corn and carrots are all great choices. Insects like earwigs, maggots and beetles are a favorite snack of hedgehogs, also being a great source of chitin. Chitin plays a key role in the hedgehogs’ natural diet, playing a role in their digestion similar to that of fiber in humans. 

While some food and treats can be given throughout the day, it’s important to remember that hedgehogs are nocturnal animals, and thus most active at night. This means that a majority of their food should be fed in the evening hours to coincide with the times they’re most active. Hedgehog owners should also aim to avoid feeding acidic food such as oranges, lemons, raisins and grapes as consuming them may lead to ulcers, mouth sores and more.

Hedgehogs need a diet that’s high in protein and low in fat content. With no grains, fillers, wheat, soy, artificial colors or preservatives, Evanger’s food for Ferrets & Exotic Pets has maximum meat content and added nutrients formulated meet the nutritional needs of not only hedgehogs, but ferrets, large lizards and other obligate carnivores as well.

Ian Germann

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