Hedgehog Accessories: Must-Have Gear for Your Prickly Pet

Hedgehog Accessories: Must-Have Gear for Your Prickly Pet

Bringing a hedgehog into your life is such a rewarding experience. They’re quirky, cute, and full of personality. But just like any pet, hedgehogs need a variety of accessories to ensure they are happy, healthy, and well-stimulated. If you're new to hedgehog ownership or looking to upgrade your pet’s living environment, here's a list of must-have gear that will make your hedgehog’s life cozy and enriching.

1. Proper Enclosure and Habitat Setup

A spacious, safe, and comfortable enclosure is essential for any hedgehog. A good enclosure will allow for movement and space to explore. The recommended size is at least 2 feet by 3 feet, though bigger is always better! Choose a cage with solid flooring to prevent your hedgie from hurting their tiny feet.

Essential items for the enclosure:

• Hideaways and Tunnels: Hedgehogs love to burrow and hide, so make sure to provide plenty of cozy spots like igloos, tunnels, or fleece hideouts. These accessories give them a sense of security and allow them to indulge in their natural behavior.
• Fleece Liners or Bedding: Soft fleece liners are a great alternative to loose bedding like aspen or paper bedding. Fleece is reusable, easy to clean, and comfortable for your hedgehog.

2. The Right Heating Setup

Hedgehogs are sensitive to temperature changes and need a controlled environment to avoid entering hibernation, which can be dangerous for them. Hedgehog enclosures should always stay between 72-80°F (22-27°C). To maintain this range, you’ll need:

• Ceramic Heat Emitters (CHE): These provide consistent warmth without producing light, which is ideal for nighttime when your hedgehog is most active. Pair the CHE with a thermostat to regulate the temperature.
• Thermometer and Hygrometer: Monitoring the temperature and humidity in your hedgehog’s enclosure is crucial for their well-being. Make sure the humidity level stays between 30-50% to prevent respiratory issues.

3. Exercise Wheel

A hedgehog without a wheel is like a fish without water! These little guys need plenty of exercise, and a solid, well-made wheel is key to their physical health.

• Solid-Surface Wheel: Choose a wheel with a solid running surface to avoid any injuries to their feet. Hedgehogs need wheels that are 10-12 inches in diameter to ensure they have plenty of room to run without curving their backs.

4. Litter Box and Litter

Believe it or not, hedgehogs can be litter-trained! Adding a litter box to their enclosure helps with cleanliness and makes maintenance easier. Some hedgehogs naturally use their wheels as litter areas, but you can also place a small litter box in the corner of their cage.

• Non-Clumping Litter: Use paper-based, non-clumping litter to avoid any respiratory or health issues that might arise from dustier or chemically treated litters.

5. Enrichment Toys

Hedgehogs are curious creatures and need mental stimulation to keep boredom at bay. Including toys and enrichment activities is essential for their well-being.

• Tunnels and Tubes: Hedgehogs love crawling through tunnels, so adding various sizes of tubes (like PVC pipes) can provide endless fun.
• Balls and Interactive Toys: Light plastic balls or crinkle toys that are safe for small animals can engage your hedgehog in play. Just be sure to supervise and avoid anything that could become a choking hazard.
• Foraging Toys: Hedgehogs love to forage, so providing foraging mats or puzzle toys where you can hide treats will encourage their natural hunting instincts.

6. Food and Water Dishes

The right food and water setup is essential for keeping your hedgehog well-nourished and hydrated. Choose shallow, tip-proof dishes for both food and water.

• Ceramic or Stainless Steel Bowls: These are ideal because they are sturdy and easy to clean. Avoid plastic dishes as they can be chewed or tipped over.

7. Water Bottle or Bowl?

This is a debated topic among hedgehog owners, but both water bottles and bowls can work well depending on your hedgie’s preference. Some owners find that bowls are more natural for their hedgehogs to drink from, while others prefer bottles for ease of cleaning and reduced risk of contamination.

8. Grooming Tools

Hedgehogs need some basic grooming to stay healthy and comfortable.

• Soft-Bristled Brush: Hedgehogs can get food or bedding stuck in their quills, so a soft brush will help keep them clean.
• Nail Clippers: Regular nail trimming is necessary to prevent overgrown nails, which can be uncomfortable for your hedgehog.

9. Digging Bin

Hedgehogs love to dig! A digging bin filled with sterilized dirt, fleece strips, or small, safe toys allows your hedgie to indulge in one of their favorite natural behaviors.

• DIY Digging Bin: You can easily create one by filling a shallow plastic container with non-toxic materials for your hedgehog to root around in. Adding small, hidden treats can turn it into a foraging activity as well.

10. Travel Carrier

A travel carrier is a must-have for vet visits or transporting your hedgehog safely. Choose a small, ventilated carrier that provides a comfortable and secure environment for short trips.

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Final Thoughts

Providing your hedgehog with the right accessories and gear is essential for their happiness and well-being. From a cozy hideaway to an exciting foraging activity, these accessories will keep your hedgehog physically and mentally stimulated while creating a safe, comfortable environment. If you’re just getting started or looking to enhance your hedgie’s space, these essentials will help you set up the perfect home for your prickly pet!

 Written by Heather, from Quills and Cuddles at Setareh Hedgehogs.🦔💖

For more hedgehog care tips, fun stories, and updates, be sure to check out our website at Setareh Hedgehogs. Don't forget to follow along on Instagram @setarehhedgehogs to see more adorable hedgie moments. We can’t wait to share the quill-filled fun with you!