Health
Nail Clippers
Nail clippers for human babies work well for hedgehogs, cat nail clippers may also work. They need to have their nails trimmed every 2-4 weeks depending on the hedgehog. Overgrown nails cause the toes to twist and if neglect long enough the nails can curve and grow until they pierce the foot pad.
It can be difficult to clip their nails, so scruffing or even a vet visit may be necessary. The discomfort of scruffing or the momentary pain of clipping a nail too short is much less painful than the foot deformities and wounds from overgrown nails. |
Baths
Hedgehogs need a small bath to wash their feet almost daily because they run through their waste as they run on their wheel. Giving your hedgehog a foot bath in an inch or so of water when you first take them out will clean their feet also encourage them to use the restroom so that less mess ends up on you!
Many tear-free baby shampoos or cat shampoos are safe for hedgehogs. They can be prone to dry skin so limit soap baths to 1-2 times a month. To help with dry skin you can add a bit of coconut oil to a plain water bath.
Hedgehogs should not stink or have a strong smell. If your hedgehog stinks you need try a different shampoo or wash them more often.
Many tear-free baby shampoos or cat shampoos are safe for hedgehogs. They can be prone to dry skin so limit soap baths to 1-2 times a month. To help with dry skin you can add a bit of coconut oil to a plain water bath.
Hedgehogs should not stink or have a strong smell. If your hedgehog stinks you need try a different shampoo or wash them more often.
Hand Washing
Animals can carry germs and diseases such as salmonella and ringworm. To prevent illness, anyone that handles the hedgehog or it's supplies should wash their hands afterwards. Keep your hedgehog and its supplies away from food areas like the kitchen and dining room. Children should be given extra help with hand washing.
Vet Fund
Accidents can happen. It's important to have a vet fund set aside so that you are able to seek treatment and prevent suffering if your pet becomes sick or injured.
Veterinarian
You can see a list of vets in your area on the Hedgehog Welfare Society website.