Supply Checklist Before Taking Your New Hedgehog Home
Bringing home a new hedgehog is an exciting experience! Before your pet arrives, it’s important to make sure you have everything ready to keep them safe, comfortable, and happy. Below is a helpful checklist of essential supplies, along with a few recommendations from Exotic Nutrition to get you started.
Cage
Hedgehogs need plenty of space to explore. We recommend a minimum of 4 square feet of floor space (24″ x 24″), though bigger is always better. Look for cages with solid floors and proper ventilation.
Our Two-Level Mansion Cage and Sahara Cage are great options designed with hedgehog safety and comfort in mind.
Hut / Hideaway
Hedgehogs love having a cozy place to sleep and feel secure. Provide a hideout or pouch where they can curl up during the day.
Try our Hedgie Pouch, Cozy Pouch, or Wood Hideout for a comfortable sleeping space.
Bedding / Cage Liners
Choose safe, absorbent, and easy-to-clean bedding. Carefresh Complete Bedding or a Fleece Tray Liner are both excellent options. Avoid loose threads or unsafe materials that can tangle around toes.
Heating
Hedgehogs thrive in warm environments — ideally between 74–78°F. If your room falls below 72°F, use a Heating Set or ceramic heat emitter to keep your pet comfortable. Always monitor the temperature with a reliable thermometer.
Exercise Wheel
A wheel is a must-have! Hedgehogs are active at night and need exercise to stay healthy. Choose a solid-surface wheel like the Silent Runner Wheel— it’s quiet, sturdy, and designed for small pets.
Food & Treats
Provide a balanced, high-protein, low-fat diet. Our Hedgehog Starter Pack includes nutritious food and treats perfect for new owners. Keep healthy treats on hand to add enrichment and help with bonding.
Food & Water Dishes
Use wide, heavy bowls that won’t tip over, or consider a Hanging Water Bottle to keep water clean and fresh. Be sure to refill and clean daily.
Cage Accessories & Toys
Tunnels, chew toys, and climbing accessories make your hedgehog’s habitat more engaging. Items like the Wood Hideout and extra fleece bedding provide enrichment and security.
Cleaning Supplies
Keeping your hedgehog’s home clean helps prevent odor and illness. Our Kage Kleen is a safe, pet-friendly cleaner perfect for daily maintenance. Clean wheels and surfaces regularly for a fresh habitat.
Vitamins & Supplements
A supplement such as Hedgehog Booster can help fill nutritional gaps and support a strong immune system, especially if your hedgehog’s diet isn’t primarily made up of fortified pellets.
Other Essentials
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Nail trimmer – for regular grooming
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Travel carrier – for vet visits or travel
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Exotic veterinarian contact – locate a qualified vet before bringing your hedgehog home
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Optional extras: odor removers, bonding pouches, and soft lighting systems
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Notice: Exotic Nutrition cannot provide specific care guidelines on an individual basis. Please consult a veterinarian or experienced breeder.
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