The Importance of Quality Water for Your Hedgehog

 

The Importance of Quality Water for Your Hedgehog

Ensuring the quality of your hedgehog's water is crucial for their health and well-being. To prevent harmful bacteria from growing, it’s essential to wash and refill your hedgehog’s water dish or bottle daily.

Is Tap Water Safe for My Hedgehog?

You might assume that tap water is safe, but it’s best to provide your hedgehog with filtered water. Many municipal water sources treat their water with chlorine to eliminate bacteria, which can be harmful to small animals over time. Studies indicate that chlorine may lead to health issues in hedgehogs and other pets. Additionally, tap water can contain heavy metals and contaminants that could disrupt your hedgehog's sensitive digestive system. Filtered water is the safest choice, as it’s free from these harmful toxins.

Check Your Local Water Quality

Curious about the water quality in your area? You can look up the contaminants in your local water supply by entering your zip code here. For instance, in Austin, TX, there are 12 contaminants that exceed EWG Health Guidelines!

Are Brita or Fridge Filters Sufficient?

Many people rely on popular carbon-based pitcher filters, like Brita, but these often fail to remove harmful chemicals. Instead, consider investing in a filtration system specifically designed to eliminate impurities from your water.

Counter-Top and Under-the-Sink Water Filters

Two excellent options for water filtration are AquaTru and Berkey. I personally use the countertop AquaTru and love it! They also offer an under-the-sink version. Just keep in mind that reverse osmosis systems remove beneficial minerals from the water, so you’ll need to add those back in. I recommend using Perfect Minerals from AquaTru for this purpose.

Legal Water Limits and Safety Concerns

It's essential to remember that just because something is legally permissible doesn’t mean it’s safe. Many water regulations haven't been updated since the 1980s, and tap water in major cities can contain chemicals and pharmaceuticals harmful to both humans and pets.

Only the Best Water for Your Tiny Friend!

Consider how small your hedgehog is compared to you. If you’re dedicated to providing the best care for your pet, make the switch to filtered water. Not only is it a safer choice, but it also tastes better than tap water, encouraging your hedgehog to drink more and stay happy and hydrated!