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The Ultimate Guide to Hedgehogs: Care, Husbandry, Health, Housing, Diet, and Training

Chadwick Powell

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Published in Hedgehogs Hedgehog For Care Husbandry Health Housing Diet And Training Hedgehogs Pets Owner S Manual

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Hedgehogs are fascinating and adorable creatures that make great pets. They are relatively low-maintenance, but they do have specific needs that must be met in order to thrive. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about caring for your hedgehog, from its husbandry and health to its housing, diet, and training.

Hedgehogs Hedgehog for care husbandry health housing diet and training Hedgehogs Pets Owner s Manual

Hedgehogs. Hedgehog book for care, husbandry, health, housing, diet and training. Hedgehogs Pets Owner’s Manual.

by Beverley Courtney

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	763 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	142 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

Husbandry

Hedgehogs are solitary animals that do not require a lot of space. A 2-foot by 4-foot enclosure is the minimum size for one hedgehog. The enclosure should be escape-proof and have solid sides to prevent drafts. The bottom of the enclosure should be lined with a soft material, such as fleece or shredded paper.

Hedgehogs need a hiding place to feel safe and secure. This can be a small box, a tunnel, or a pile of leaves. The hiding place should be dark and cozy.

Hedgehogs need access to a water bottle at all times. The water bottle should be placed in a corner of the enclosure where it will not be knocked over.

Hedgehogs need to be brushed regularly to remove loose fur and dirt. Brushing also helps to distribute the hedgehog's natural oils, which keeps its skin healthy.

Health

Hedgehogs are generally healthy animals, but they can be susceptible to certain health problems, such as:

Obesity
Dental disease
Skin problems
Respiratory problems
Neurological problems

It is important to take your hedgehog to the vet for regular checkups to ensure that it is healthy.

Housing

As mentioned above, hedgehogs need an enclosure that is at least 2 feet by 4 feet. The enclosure should be escape-proof and have solid sides to prevent drafts. The bottom of the enclosure should be lined with a soft material, such as fleece or shredded paper.

Hedgehogs need a hiding place to feel safe and secure. This can be a small box, a tunnel, or a pile of leaves. The hiding place should be dark and cozy.

Hedgehogs need access to a water bottle at all times. The water bottle should be placed in a corner of the enclosure where it will not be knocked over.

Hedgehogs need to be brushed regularly to remove loose fur and dirt. Brushing also helps to distribute the hedgehog's natural oils, which keeps its skin healthy.

Diet

Hedgehogs are insectivores, which means that they eat insects. In the wild, hedgehogs eat a variety of insects, such as beetles, crickets, mealworms, and earthworms. Captive hedgehogs can be fed a diet of commercial hedgehog food, which is available at most pet stores.

In addition to commercial hedgehog food, you can also feed your hedgehog occasional treats, such as:

Live insects
Cooked chicken
Cooked fish
Fruits
Vegetables

It is important to avoid feeding your hedgehog foods that are high in fat or sugar. These foods can lead to obesity and other health problems.

Training

Hedgehogs can be trained to do a variety of tricks, such as:

Come when called
Sit
Stay
Roll over
Play dead

Training a hedgehog requires patience and consistency. Start by training your hedgehog in short sessions, no more than 5 minutes at a time. Use positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, to reward your hedgehog for good behavior.

Hedgehogs are fascinating and adorable creatures that make great pets. They are relatively low-maintenance, but they do have specific needs that must be met in order to thrive. By following the tips in this guide, you can provide your hedgehog with the best possible care.

Hedgehogs. Hedgehog book for care, husbandry, health, housing, diet and training. Hedgehogs Pets Owner’s Manual.

by Beverley Courtney

4.3 out of 5