Exotic pets are commonplace in this day and age. Keeping hedgehogs as pets has become more and more common since they were first adopted as household pets in the 1980s. People are constantly looking for weird and wonderful animals to keep as pets and this sometimes results in the mistreatment of animals.

Hedgehogs, like any other exotic pet, require special treatment and a special type of owner who is willing to learn about their needs and provide for them in a way which best suits their lifestyles.


Things you need to know before adopting a pet hedgehog:

• Diet

Hedgehogs in the wild have a diet which mainly consists of insects and they will also eat whatever looks tasty and easy to catch. Domesticated hedgehogs, however, are mainly fed a high protein, low-fat cat food as a base food. Treats are given occasionally, these consist of meal worms and crickets (they are high in fat, so not too many), and fruit also makes for a tasty indulgence. Hedgehogs are very small, so they may battle with weight gain, make sure you don't over-feed your pet hedgehog. IMPORTANT: Hedgehogs should never be fed avocados, onions, grapes or raisins, chocolate, any raw meat or egg yolks, or any canned or processed food.

• Home

Hedgehogs need plenty of running space in their cage and the floor of this cage should be solid (bars are dangerous as their feet get stuck between them and they become injured). Multi-level cages work as a substitute for space, but hedgehogs have poor eye-sight so ramps and levels should be walled to prevent any falls. For the bed, use a non-fraying fabric (frays tend to get wrapped around limbs resulting in amputation) or recycled newspapers. Avoid wood bedding as the oils cause respiratory problems in hedgehogs. There should also be an exercise wheel (with a solid floor and no cross bars).

• Environment

Hedgehogs require a warm environment. In the wild they are used to hibernating when it becomes colder. Domesticated hedgehogs, however, tend to lack the ability to do so effectively and this often results in fatalities. If your hedgehog does try to hibernate, it can be reversed if caught quickly (within a week). The temperature should remain above 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius).

It is important to keep this information in mind when considering acquiring a pet hedgehog. Do your research and be sure to provide the best possible home for your exotic pet.

from (animaltv)

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