Hedgehogs are becoming increasingly popular as pets, but can they be kept indoors? Here’s what you need to know about keeping a hedgehog as a pet.
Can hedgehogs be kept as indoor pets?
Hedgehogs make pretty great pets – they’re very clean and generally low maintenance! Plus, they’re cute as can be. Although some people choose to keep them outside in an appropriate enclosure, an increasing number of people are choosing to keep these quilled creatures indoors.
If you have the right setup, including a secure cage that’s large enough for them to roam and play, attractive hide spots, litter boxes, food bowls, and plenty of toys, it can work out just fine. Also, don’t forget about the noise factor: hedgehogs aren’t too noisy but it is something to consider for apartment living!
What type of living space do hedgehogs need indoors?
Hedgehogs are the perfect pets for small city apartments! With the right type of living space, even the smallest indoor spaces can accommodate a happy and healthy pet hedgehog. A 10-20 gallon terrarium with a secure lid makes an ideal living space. It’s important to line the enclosure with two inches of soft bedding material like aspen bedding, paper towels, or shredded recycled paper. If your hedgehog has access to running water and is kept in a draft-free area, you might even be able to forgo a bulky aquarium heater.
Hedgehogs also enjoy plenty of hiding places within their enclosure so make sure to fill it with at least a few hideaways from toilet paper tubes or safe cardboard boxes. With just the essentials, you’ll have your pet hedgehog prepared for living comfortably indoors in no time!
What kind of bedding and accessories should be used for an indoor hedgehog habitat?
Creating an indoor habitat for your pet hedgehog should be a fun and enjoyable experience. Bed and accessories should be comfortable, functional, and easy to maintain. The perfect bedding setup includes absorbent substrates like aspen wood chips or wood fiber pellets, along with a warm hide made from soft cloth material or felt.
To make the habitat even comfier for your little friend, include plush pillows or burrowing cubes made especially for hedgehogs. Don’t forget to accessorize with chews and feeders that encourage chewing and climbing! With a few simple pieces of bedding and accessories, you can create a comfortable home for your pet hedgehog.
What do indoor hedgehogs eat, and how often should they be fed?
Hedgehogs are amazing little creatures that are becoming more and more popular as domestic pets due to their unique personality and hypoallergenic qualities. It’s important to understand what a pet hedgehog should be fed in terms of diet, and how frequently. Generally, a balanced diet for an indoor hedgehog includes canned food, raw fruits and vegetables, cooked eggs, and mealworms.
The canned food should be formulated specifically for hedgehogs and may be supplemented with appropriate amounts of other foods. They should be fed once or twice daily; the exact amount will depend on the size of your little friend. Make sure to pay attention to just how much your fuzzy individual consumes to maintain their proper weight. All in all, ensuring your hedgehog is eating properly can help lead them toward a long and happy life!
Do indoor hedgehogs need exercise and playtime, and how much?
Hedgehogs are surprisingly energetic pets, and providing them with enough playtime is essential for keeping them active and healthy. They are nocturnal creatures, which means the best time for playing is in the evening or during the night when they usually wake up. Allow your hedgehog around four to five hours of playtime every day, and offer them creative ways to exercise.
Giving them access to high ledges or ramps can provide a great opportunity to add climbing into their daily routine. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you could even set up a DIY playground in your house!
Are there any specific health concerns to watch out for when keeping a hedgehog indoors?
Keeping a hedgehog indoors can be a fun and rewarding experience. While it certainly has its benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential health risks that come along with it. As with any pet, providing proper care and nutrition is key – however, when it comes to a hedgehog living in your home, there are a few things to consider to minimize risk.
Respiratory illnesses and obesity can develop from inadequate ventilation, too much exercise, and an unhealthy diet. Additionally, hedgehogs may suffer from dehydration if water bowls aren’t kept full enough and skin irritations can occur due to diet or low humidity levels. Be sure to research the particular health concerns associated with keeping a hedgehog indoors and consult with your vet if your pet is experiencing any issues.
Final Thoughts
Hedgehogs make great indoor pets. They are low maintenance, quiet, and easy to care for. If you’re looking for a new pet and have been considering a hedgehog, we hope this article has helped you decide whether or not they would be a good fit for your home. Thanks for reading!
