The following care information has been written by myself (Becca of Ouchmouse House) and is in my opinion accurate and in the best interests of APH safety and health.
Care guidelines vary depending where you live and who you talk to, there are many differing opinions on the best set ups, the best foods etc…
Our golden rules are:
- You must have a safe reliable heat source that can regulate a constant ambient temperature.
- You must feed a mix of top tier dry cat kibble foods to maintain variety and nutrition. (Our favourite are Applaws, Arden grange, James Well Beloved, Meowing heads, Science plan and Royal canin.)
- You absolutely must provide a daily element of live food such as dubai roaches, calcium dusted mealworm, crickets, wax worms etc…
- Fresh drinking water must always be available.
- Only bathe when absolutely necessary and do not use any soaps. (Strained oatmeal water or coconut oil is ideal).
- Keep nails trimmed but be careful to not cut the quick.
- Maintain a dust free and hygienic environment in your hedgehogs living space.
- Bond with your hedgehog, perservering with regular contact.
- Living area must be no smaller than 4.5 square feet.
- A solid surfaced running wheel no smaller in diameter than 11″ must be provided.
- Regular free roaming in a safe area is recommended.
- Ensure your vet is happy to treat APH.
- Hedgehogs are solitary and are housed generally alone except in the case of female groups which should not be attempted by new owners as it takes knowledge to establish good relationships.
- Always provide a hide like bed area for your hedgehog to sleep.
- Hedgehogs are nocturnal.
- Keep track of your hedgehogs weight and adjust food fat percentage accordingly. (Pear shaped and able to ball up fully is ideal).
- Ensure a good night/day dark/light cycle so as to regulate their internal clock.
- Regularly check your hedgehogs physical appearance to spot health issues early, especially toes, genitals, eyes, ears, teeth and skin.
Download our Housing care sheet
Download our Feeding care sheet