by Kaitlyn Shepanski

Created on: December 22, 2011   Last Updated: February 22, 2012

To some people, owning an animal other than a dog or cat seems like a real conundrum. The simple process of feeding a hedgehog is a mystery to most people and they’re often surprised to learn that what a hedgehog eats can be strikingly similar to what you feed your pet cat, right down to the brand. Here I’ll give a little background info, debunk some of the myths surrounding the hedgie’s diet and recommend some foods for your own pet hedgehog.

Hedgehogs in their natural setting are insectivores; they feed on insects, and at times plants. However in captivity they can be classified more as omnivores. The main suggested staple of a hedgehog’s diet is something that satisfies all its nutritional needs and will act as a filler so your animal won’t feel hungry. Cat food just so happens to do that. Like rabbits and horses, hedgehogs need this filler so they don’t feel chronically hungry even when their nutritional needs are being met. Although different brands can be used so long as they provide adequate nutrients, Purina One: Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Cat or Kitten Food is the most popular choice and one recommended by many breeders. The only other thing to make sure of with this food is corn or cornmeal is NOT one of the first three ingredients. If corn is the first, second, or third ingredient, chances are it won’t have enough protein for your hedgie. For a more specialized feed you can research the exact requirements for hedgehogs and mix your own food out of several types. This is a choice many owners make.

Some owners and breeders also suggest adding wet cat food to your hedgehog’s diet as well. It should probably be used as a treat; wet food will have a lot more protein than the dry food. Keep in mind while generally not very smelly, wet food can cause your hedgehog’s poop to become more messy and fragrant, to put it nicely.

The fact that they’re omnivores doesn’t change everything; many hedgehogs still enjoy a crunchy mealworm or cricket now and again. Care should be given, as too many treats will cause weight gain as it will with any animal. Mealworms are the most popular choice and come in freeze dried, wet, and live forms. If you’re squeamish of bugs I would suggest the freeze dried variety, they aren’t slimy and are not unpleasant to touch. Not altogether pleasant, but not too bad.

Hedgehogs enjoy numerous other treats and actually require fresh foods in their diet. Like

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