Pet hedgehogs thrive best on a diet high in proteins, low in fats and rich in chitin. Unlike their wild relatives, pygmy hedgehogs to not hibernate and do not expand a lot of energy. They are greedy eaters and prone to obesity, so owners need to mindfully regulate feedings.
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The African Pygmy hedgehog is the most popular species of hedgehogs kept as pets. We use pet and pygmy hedgehog in this piece interchangeably.
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food. Can hedgehogs partake in the Thanksgiving feast, specifically the turkey? What about our spiky friends, the hedgehogs?
The answer is yes, hedgehogs can eat turkey, but with some important caveats. Here’s what you need to know about feeding turkey to your hedgehog:
Types of Turkey:
- Cooked, unseasoned turkey: This is the best option for hedgehogs. Choose white meat, as it’s lower in fat than dark meat. Remove the skin and any bones before offering it to your hedgehog.
- Raw turkey: While raw turkey is not inherently harmful to hedgehogs, it’s not recommended. Raw meat can harbor bacteria that can make your hedgehog sick.
- Seasoned turkey: Avoid giving your hedgehog turkey that has been seasoned with salt, pepper, herbs, or other spices. These can be harmful to your hedgehog’s digestive system.
- Processed turkey products: Avoid processed turkey products like deli meat, hot dogs, and sausages. These are high in sodium and preservatives, which are not good for hedgehogs.
Amount of Turkey:
- Hedgehogs are insectivores, meaning their diet primarily consists of insects. Turkey should be considered a treat, not a staple food.
- A small piece of cooked, unseasoned turkey (about the size of a dice) is sufficient as an occasional treat.
- Overfeeding turkey can lead to digestive upset and other health problems.
Other Thanksgiving Treats:
- Plain mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes without butter, salt, or other seasonings can be a safe treat for hedgehogs.
- Unsweetened pumpkin puree: A small amount of unsweetened pumpkin puree can be a healthy treat for hedgehogs.
- Plain green beans: Cooked, plain green beans can be a good source of fiber for hedgehogs.
Foods to Avoid:
- Stuffing: Stuffing is often high in fat and spices, which are not good for hedgehogs.
- Cranberry sauce: Cranberry sauce is high in sugar, which can be harmful to hedgehogs.
- Gravy: Gravy is high in fat and salt, which can be harmful to hedgehogs.
- Pie: Pies are high in sugar and fat, which are not good for hedgehogs.
Additional Tips:
- Always supervise your hedgehog when they are eating turkey or any other treat.
- If you are unsure about whether a particular food is safe for your hedgehog, consult with your veterinarian.
- Introduce new foods slowly to avoid digestive upset.
- A varied diet is important for hedgehogs. In addition to turkey and other treats, make sure your hedgehog has access to a high-quality hedgehog food and plenty of fresh water.
You can safely share Thanksgiving goodies with your hedgehog and make sure they have a joyful and healthy holiday season by adhering to these guidelines.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your spiky friend!
Can pygmy hedgehogs eat grapes?
Hedgehogs cannot eat grapes and raisins as they are toxic to them. If your hedgie digests grapes by accident, seek immediate veterinary assistance.
What do hedgehogs eat in the wild?
Mainly insects and small animals such as:
- Worms
- Caterpillars
- Millipedes
- Snails
- Mealworms
- Earthworms
- Slugs
- Ground beetles
- Baby mice
- Small animals
- Some fruit and veg
This is similar to what you would feed a hedgehog of the African pygmy variety, but it differs a little because these creatures don’t require as much energy. In the wild, hedgehogs have to forage for food. As a domesticated species, African Pygmy Hedgehogs don’t have to.
Given that wild hedgehogs are voracious eaters and prone to obesity, many of the insects that make up their diet should only be given as treats.
Because they don’t hibernate like wild hedgehogs do and because they don’t grow as big, domesticated African pygmy hedgehogs require less fat in their diet.
What Do HEDGEHOGS EAT? Full Hedgehog Diet!
FAQ
Can hedgehogs eat meat?
What should you not feed hedgehogs?
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BAD food for hedgehogs
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Reason
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Cheaper cat/dog food brands
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Poor calcium:phosphorus ratio Chemical additives High sugar content
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Dairy (cow’s milk and cheese)
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Lactose intolerance
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Raisins, sultanas, currants, berries
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High sugar content
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Bread
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Hedgehogs cannot digest this well
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Can hedgehogs eat chicken?