Hedgehog 101: Everything You Need to Know Before Adopting

So, you’re thinking about adopting a hedgehog? These spiky little companions are undeniably adorable, but they require specific care, commitment, and a thorough understanding of their needs to thrive. Hedgehogs are exotic pets, meaning they have specialized housing, diet, and medical needs that differ from traditional pets like dogs and cats.

Before you welcome one into your home, let’s dive into everything you need to know to ensure you’re fully prepared for responsible hedgehog ownership.

1. Hedgehogs Are Exotic Pets—Not Low-Maintenance Ones

A common misconception is that hedgehogs are easy, low-maintenance pets that require little care beyond food and water. In reality, they need:

A proper temperature-controlled habitat
A specialized diet
Daily handling and socialization
Routine exotic vet care

Unlike cats and dogs, hedgehogs hide their illnesses very well, making regular vet visits essential to catch issues early. Owning a hedgehog is a long-term commitment—they typically live between 3-7 years with proper care.

Important: Hedgehogs are nocturnal, meaning they will be asleep during the day and only become active in the evening. If you’re looking for a pet that is awake when you are, a hedgehog may not be the right fit.

2. Hedgehog Housing: Creating the Perfect Habitat

Hedgehogs need a spacious and safe enclosure that mimics their natural behaviors. Here’s what their ideal setup should include:

Enclosure: A minimum of 4 square feet of floor space (a modified guinea pig cage or large plastic storage bin works well).
Bedding: Fleece liners or paper-based bedding—avoid wood shavings, as they can contain harmful oils.
Temperature Control: Hedgehogs are prone to hibernation attempts, which are dangerous and often fatal. Their environment must be kept between 74-78°F, using a ceramic heat emitter (CHE) with a thermostat. Heating pads alone are not enough and can cause burns.
Hiding Spots: Hedgehogs are prey animals and require a safe hideaway such as a fleece pouch, igloo, or wooden hide.
Exercise Wheel: A solid-surface 12-inch wheel is essential for exercise. Avoid wire wheels, as they can cause foot injuries.

Important: Wire-bottom cages and exercise balls are not safe for hedgehogs and should never be used.

3. Diet: What Do Hedgehogs Eat?

Hedgehogs are insectivores, meaning their diet must be high in protein and low in fat. A poor diet can lead to obesity, fatty liver disease, and malnutrition. Here’s what a balanced hedgehog diet should look like:

High-quality kibble: A mix of high-protein, low-fat cat food or hedgehog-specific food (avoid cheap, low-quality brands).
Live or dried insects: Mealworms, crickets, and dubia roaches provide essential nutrients and encourage natural foraging behavior.
Fruits & veggies (in moderation): Small portions of fruits like bananas, apples, or berries and vegetables like squash or sweet potatoes are okay.

Avoid: Dairy, nuts, seeds, raw meat, onions, garlic, chocolate, processed foods, and sugary treats.

4. Handling and Bonding: Do Hedgehogs Like to Cuddle?

Hedgehogs have individual personalities—some are social and curious, while others are more reserved or defensive. Bonding with your hedgehog takes time and patience.

Here are some key tips for initial bonding:

Daily handling: Gently scoop them up from underneath rather than grabbing from above. Never force a hedgehog to uncurl—this can cause stress and fear.
Use a bonding pouch: Carry them around in a fleece pouch so they get used to your scent.
Be patient: Some hedgehogs will initially huff, puff, or ball up—but with consistent handling, they will become comfortable.
Evening interaction: Hedgehogs are nocturnal, so the best time to bond is in the evening.

5. Common Health Issues in Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs are prone to several health problems, and finding a certified exotic vet is absolutely essential to their care. Some of the most common hedgehog health concerns include:

Obesity: Hedgehogs love to eat and need regular exercise to avoid becoming overweight.
Mites: If a hedgehog is scratching excessively or losing quills, mites could be the culprit. Treatment requires a vet visit.
Dental Disease (Long-Eared Hedgehogs Especially): Tartar buildup, tooth infections, and oral tumors are common in older hedgehogs. Regular vet exams help catch problems early.
Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS): A progressive neurological disorder similar to ALS in humans. While there is no cure, supportive care can improve a hedgehog’s quality of life.
Reproductive Cancer: Female hedgehogs are prone to uterine tumors. If you adopt a female, discuss spaying options with your exotic vet.
Zoonotic Diseases (Salmonella): Hedgehogs can carry salmonella, so always wash your hands after handling them and clean their enclosure regularly.

6. Is It Legal to Own a Hedgehog in Your State?

Before adopting a hedgehog, check your local laws. In some places, hedgehogs are illegal to own due to concerns about invasive species or disease transmission.

🔴 Hedgehogs are illegal in:

California
Georgia
Hawaii
Washington, D.C.

🟡 Restrictions exist in:

New York City (illegal in the five boroughs)
Pennsylvania (requires a permit)

If you live in one of these areas, you cannot legally own a hedgehog unless laws change. Always check your state and local regulations before bringing a hedgehog home!

7. Where to Get a Hedgehog: Adopt, Don’t Shop!

If you’re ready to bring a hedgehog into your life, consider adopting from a rescue instead of buying from a pet store. Many hedgehogs in rescues need loving homes, and adopting helps reduce unethical breeding practices.

Find a rescue near you:

HedgehogWelfare.org – This site maintains an up-to-date national list of all certified rescue organizations in the U.S.

If Choosing a Breeder:

If you prefer to purchase from a breeder, make sure they are USDA-certified and meeting all legal requirements.

Ask to see their certification and avoid breeders who:

Do not provide health records
Refuse to let you see the parents (or provide records of them)
House animals in unsanitary conditions

Final Thoughts: Is a Hedgehog Right for You?

Hedgehogs are wonderful, fascinating pets, but they aren’t the best fit for everyone. They require specialized care, a proper setup, and an experienced exotic vet. If you’re excited about the commitment, learning about their unique behaviors, and providing lifelong care, a hedgehog could be the perfect pet for you!

If you have any questions about hedgehog care or adoption, feel free to reach out—we’d love to help you start your hedgehog journey!