Hedgehogs are becoming increasingly popular as pets, but there are some things you should avoid feeding them. Many common foods are unsafe for hedgehogs and can make them sick. This article will list some of the most common unsafe foods for hedgehogs and explain why they are dangerous.
What Not to Feed Hedgehogs
While they are relatively easy to care for, there are certain things that you should not feed them. Hedgehogs are small, spiny mammals that are native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. They are often kept as pets in the United States.
One of the most important things to remember is that hedgehogs are carnivores. This means that they should not be fed a vegetarian or vegan diet. Hedgehogs need to eat meat in order to get the nutrients they need.
This includes things like chips, crackers, and cookies. Another thing to avoid feeding hedgehogs is any kind of processed food. These foods are not nutritious and can actually be harmful to hedgehogs.
Dairy can be hard for hedgehogs to digest and can cause stomach problems. Finally, you should also avoid giving hedgehogs any kind of dairy product.
If you remember these simple guidelines, you can help your hedgehog stay healthy and happy.
Why Are These Foods Unsafe to Feed Hedgehogs?
Second, some of these foods may contain harmful toxins or chemicals that can be dangerous to hedgehogs. First, some of these foods contain high levels of sugar or fat which can lead to obesity and other health problems in hedgehogs. Finally, some of these foods may be difficult for hedgehogs to digest properly, which can cause gastrointestinal problems. There are a few reasons why these foods are unsafe to feed hedgehogs.
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins are often given as treats to hedgehogs, but they can be dangerous. Symptoms of renal failure include lethargy, increased thirst, and decreased appetite. Grapes and raisins can cause renal failure in hedgehogs. If your hedgehog shows any of these symptoms, take them to the vet immediately.
Avocados
The reason for this is that avocados contain a chemical called persin, which is toxic to hedgehogs. Avocados are a fruit that is often found in households as a healthy snack option. Ingesting even a small amount of avocado can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and death in hedgehogs. If you have avocados in your home, it’s important to keep them away from your hedgehog. However, what many people don’t know is that avocados are actually harmful to hedgehogs.
Dried Fruits
If you must give your hedgehog a dried fruit, make sure to remove the skin and seeds first. Dried fruits are not safe for hedgehogs. Hedgehogs also have a hard time digesting the skin and seeds of dried fruits. The sugar content is too high and can cause digestive issues.
Milk and Dairy Products
If you must give your hedgehog dairy, do so in moderation and only give them lactose-free products. Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant and should not consume milk or dairy products. Dairy can cause digestive issues and dehydration in hedgehogs.
Potatoes
Potatoes are a common food item that many people feed their hedgehogs, but they are actually not safe for them to eat. If you suspect your hedgehog has eaten any potatoes, contact your veterinarian immediately. Potatoes contain solanine, which is a toxic compound that can make hedgehogs very sick.
Raw Meats
Raw meats can also contain parasites that can harm your hedgehog. They can contain harmful bacteria that can make your hedgehog sick. If you must feed your hedgehog raw meat, make sure to cook it thoroughly to kill any harmful bacteria or parasites. Raw meats are not safe for hedgehogs.
Processed Meats
They are small, spiny mammals with a diet that consists mainly of insects. However, there are a few things that they should not eat, processed meats being one of them. Hedgehogs are commonly found in the wild and as pets.
Processed meats are those that have been salted, cured, smoked, or otherwise treated to enhance their flavor or extend their shelf life. These meats can be dangerous for hedgehogs because they are high in sodium and fat, and can contain harmful chemicals.
In addition, avoid giving them any processed meats that contain chemicals, such as preservatives or flavorings. Too much sodium and fat can lead to obesity and other health problems. If you are feeding your hedgehog processed meats, be sure to do so in moderation.
Nuts
Hedgehogs are popular pets in many parts of the world and are known for their docile and friendly nature. Hedgehogs are small, spiny mammals that are native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. They are nocturnal animals and are known for their unique ability to roll into a tight ball when threatened.
Hedgehogs are omnivores, but their diet should be mostly made up of insects and other small invertebrates. While hedgehogs are generally considered to be low-maintenance pets, there are still some things to keep in mind when it comes to their diet. They also need a source of fresh water.
Nuts can be a choking hazard for hedgehogs and can also cause digestive problems. One food item that should be avoided is nuts. If you must give your hedgehog a nut, make sure it is chopped into small pieces and only given in moderation.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits may be tempting to feed your hedgehog, but they are actually unsafe for them to eat. The acid in citrus fruits can cause stomach upset and ulcers in hedgehogs. If you must feed your hedgehog citrus fruit, make sure to remove the seeds and pulp first.
Bread
Bread is high in carbohydrates and can cause digestive problems for hedgehogs. Bread is a common food item that is often fed to hedgehogs, but it is not a good idea to do so. It is also a common food item that can attract pests, such as ants and mice.
Spicy Foods
In the wild, they eat a diet of insects, worms, and other small invertebrates. Hedgehogs are small, spiny mammals that are native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. When hedgehogs are kept as pets, their diet should be supplemented with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
Hedgehogs also have a difficult time digesting dairy products, so it is best to avoid giving them milk, cheese, or yogurt. While hedgehogs enjoy a variety of foods, there are some that should be avoided. Spicy foods, for example, can cause stomach upset and diarrhea.
When in doubt, consult with your veterinarian or a hedgehog-savvy pet store employee. If you’re not sure whether a food is safe for your hedgehog, it is always best to err on the side of caution.
Peanut Butter
Hedgehogs are small, spiny mammals that are native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. However, when hedgehogs are kept as pets, their diet is often supplemented with fruits, vegetables, and other foods. In the wild, they eat a diet of insects, earthworms, and other small invertebrates.
Peanut butter is high in fat and sugar, and can cause obesity and other health problems in hedgehogs. Peanut butter is a common ingredient in many commercial hedgehog foods, but it is actually very unhealthy for them. One food that should be avoided is peanut butter.
If you notice any problems, consult your veterinarian immediately. There are many other healthy foods that you can feed your hedgehog, so there is no need to take the risk of feeding them peanut butter. If you are feeding your hedgehog a diet that includes peanut butter, it is important to monitor their weight and health closely.
Peas
If you’re considering adding peas to your hedgehog’s diet, you may want to think twice. While peas are a good source of vitamins and minerals, they can also be harmful to hedgehogs. Here’s what you need to know about feeding peas to your hedgehog.
Peas contain a compound called saponin, which is toxic to hedgehogs. Peas also contain a high amount of phosphorus, which can lead to kidney damage. Saponin can cause gastrointestinal upset and even death in hedgehogs.
Avoid feeding peas to your hedgehog to keep them healthy and safe. If you’re looking for a healthy way to add vitamins and minerals to your hedgehog’s diet, try other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes.
Celery
Hedgehogs can not digest celery properly and it can cause them to become sick. Celery is a common vegetable that is often found in households. If you are feeding your hedgehog celery, make sure to remove the strings from the celery first. However, celery is not safe for hedgehogs and should be avoided.
Chocolate
Chocolate is one of the most popular sweets in the world. But did you know that it’s also one of the most dangerous foods for hedgehogs?
Even a small amount of chocolate can make a hedgehog very ill. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and seizures. Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which is toxic to hedgehogs.
If you suspect your hedgehog has eaten chocolate, it’s important to take them to the vet immediately. With prompt treatment, most hedgehogs will make a full recovery.
It’s not worth risking their health. So, next time you’re tempted to share your chocolate with your hedgehog, resist the urge!
What Are the Best Kind of Food to Give to Hedgehogs?
You can also give them fruits and vegetables, but make sure to avoid giving them any that are high in sugar, as this can cause health problems. These foods are high in protein and fat, which is essential for hedgehogs. There are a variety of foods that you can give to your hedgehog, but there are some that are better than others. The best kind of food to give to hedgehogs are insects, such as mealworms, crickets, and earthworms.
Insects
Here are some of the insects to avoid feeding your hedgehog: Hedgehogs are insectivores, so their diet consists mostly of insects. However, there are some insects that are unsafe for hedgehogs to eat.
It’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid feeding them to your hedgehog. Caterpillars: Some caterpillars can be poisonous if ingested.
Beetles: Some beetles contain a chemical that can be toxic to hedgehogs. Again, it’s best to avoid feeding them to your hedgehog.
If your hedgehog ingests a firefly, it could be fatal. Fireflies: Fireflies contain a chemical that is poisonous to hedgehogs.
Three types of insects that you should avoid feeding to your hedgehog. So, there you have it! Stick to feeding them safe insects, and your hedgehog will be happy and healthy.
Mealworms
It’s important to only feed mealworms to hedgehogs in moderation, and to make sure they are properly gutted and cooked before feeding. If a hedgehog eats too many mealworms, they can develop a condition called ‘mealworm impaction’, which can be fatal. Mealworms contain a high level of chitin, which is a hard substance that can block the hedgehog’s digestive system. Mealworms are a common food source for hedgehogs, but they can also be dangerous.
Crickets
First, crickets should be gut-loaded, meaning they should be fed a nutritious diet before being offered to your hedgehog. Second, crickets should be dusted with a calcium supplement to ensure your hedgehog gets the nutrients they need. Crickets are a common food source for hedgehogs, but there are a few things to keep in mind when feeding them to your pet. Finally, be sure to offer a variety of sizes of crickets to your hedgehog, as they will likely enjoy the challenge of catching larger prey.
Canned Snails
The snail shells can be sharp and hurt the hedgehog’s digestive system. Canned snails are often fed to hedgehogs as a treat, but this is not a good idea. In addition, canned snails often contain a lot of salt, which can be harmful to hedgehogs.
Waxworms
Waxworms are the larvae of the Greater Wax Moth, and are often used as live bait or as food for reptiles and amphibians. However, they can also be harmful to hedgehogs.
Waxworms contain a high amount of fat and cholesterol, which can lead to obesity and heart problems in hedgehogs. They also contain a substance called chitin, which can cause digestive problems.
If you must feed waxworms to your hedgehog, do so in moderation and only as a occasional treat.
Fruits
Hedgehogs also enjoy eating fruits and vegetables, and they will often raid gardens in search of a tasty treat. Hedgehogs are small, spiny mammals that are native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. These nocturnal creatures are known for their love of insects, which they eat in large quantities.
While most fruits and vegetables are safe for hedgehogs to eat, there are a few that should be avoided. Finally, avocados should be avoided as they contain a toxin that can be fatal to hedgehogs. These include grapes, raisins, and currants, as they can cause kidney damage. Other fruits and vegetables to avoid include onions, garlic, and chives, as they can irritate the hedgehog’s stomach.
These will provide your hedgehog with the nutrients they need without putting their health at risk. If you’re looking to share a tasty treat with your hedgehog, stick to safe fruits and vegetables like apples, bananas, carrots, and spinach.
Vegetables
These greens are high in nutrients that are essential for hedgehogs, such as calcium and vitamin C. Hedgehogs are mostly carnivorous animals, so their diet should consist mostly of meat. The best vegetables for hedgehogs are dark, leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collards. However, they can also benefit from eating a small amount of vegetables.
These vegetables are high in carbohydrates and can cause digestive problems in hedgehogs. Hedgehogs should not eat any vegetables that are high in oxalates, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. These vegetables can cause kidney stones and other health problems in hedgehogs. Other vegetables that should be avoided include beans, peas, and corn.
Meat
They also eat the occasional fruit or vegetable. Hedgehogs are carnivores, so their diet consists mostly of meat. In the wild, they eat small insects, worms, and other invertebrates.
While hedgehogs can technically eat meat, it is not the best food for them. Meat is high in fat and protein, which can lead to obesity and other health problems in hedgehogs. It is also difficult for them to digest.
If you must feed your hedgehog meat, make sure it is lean and cooked thoroughly. Avoid feeding them processed meats, as these are high in salt and other unhealthy additives.
Cat Kibble, Dog Kibble, and Hedgehog Kibble
There are a variety of kibble options on the market for different pets, but not all kibble is created equal. And then there’s hedgehog kibble, which is a whole different story. Some kibble is better for cats, while other kibble is better for dogs.
They have a very different digestive system than other animals, so they require a special diet. Hedgehogs are small, insectivorous animals that are native to Africa, Europe, and Asia. Hedgehog kibble is made with this in mind, and it is specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of hedgehogs.
Second, choose a kibble that is high in protein and low in fat. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing hedgehog kibble. First, make sure that the kibble is made with high-quality ingredients. And finally, make sure that the kibble is small enough for your hedgehog to eat easily.
If you’re not sure which hedgehog kibble is right for your pet, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you choose a kibble that will meet your hedgehog’s specific dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are some of the most common unsafe foods that hedgehogs should avoid?
The most common unsafe foods that hedgehogs should avoid are milk and dairy products, as well as any kind of meat that is not cooked properly. Hedgehogs should also avoid any kind of processed food, as well as any kind of food that contains a lot of sugar.
2. Why are these foods unsafe for hedgehogs?
These foods are unsafe for hedgehogs because they can cause digestive problems, as well as other health problems. Milk and dairy products can cause diarrhea, while meat that is not cooked properly can cause stomach upsets. Processed food can contain harmful chemicals, and food that is high in sugar can cause obesity.
3. What are some of the symptoms that a hedgehog may experience if they eat unsafe foods?
Some of the symptoms that a hedgehog may experience if they eat unsafe foods include vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upsets. If a hedgehog eats a lot of sugar, they may also become obese.
4. What should you do if you think your hedgehog has eaten unsafe foods?
If you think your hedgehog has eaten unsafe foods, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible. The vet will be able to give them the proper treatment and make sure that they are healthy.
5. Can hedgehogs eat fruits and vegetables?
Hedgehogs can eat fruits and vegetables, but they should only eat a small amount. Fruits and vegetables should not make up more than 10% of their diet.
Final thoughts
Hedgehogs are unique and lovely creatures that can make great pets. However, it’s important to know what not to feed them, as some foods can be dangerous or even deadly to them. Avoid feeding hedgehogs chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, raw meat or fish, or any kind of processed food. Stick to feeding them fresh fruits and vegetables, cooked meat or fish, and specially made hedgehog food to keep them healthy and safe.