How much should I feed my African Pygmy Hedgehog?
An adult needs 1–2 tablespoons (15–30g) of a balanced diet each day, split into two meals.
Feeding by life stage
From hatch to 4weeks old, offer 3–4 small meals daily. Each meal should contain 0.5–1 teaspoon (≈2–4g) of finely chopped insects such as mealworms or crickets, plus a pinch of high‑protein cat kibble. At 4–6weeks begin mixing in a quarter of the adult portion and watch the weight gain; a healthy kit should add about 0.2lb (≈90g) per week.
From 4months onward, an adult hedgehog receives 1–2 tablespoons (15–30g) of mixed diet each day, divided into a morning and an evening feeding. Seniors (5years and older) often need 0.75–1.5 tablespoons (10–22g) because metabolism slows, and adding a tablespoon of water‑rich fruit helps prevent dehydration. Adjust portions by 10% if the animal gains or loses more than 5% of its body weight in two weeks.
Measuring and preparing the mix
Use a digital kitchen scale that reads to 1g for accuracy; 1 cup of dry cat kibble weighs about 120g, so a ¼‑cup (≈30g) portion satisfies the protein requirement. Blend the kibble with a tablespoon of canned pumpkin or plain yogurt to boost fiber and moisture, then let it sit 10minutes before serving.
Live insects should be frozen at –20°C for at least 24hours, then thawed at room temperature for 15minutes. Offer 5–10 small mealworms or 2–4 crickets per day, depending on the hedgehog’s size; a 6‑inch adult typically eats about 8g of insects weekly. Sprinkle a pinch of calcium‑vitamin D3 powder (≈0.5g) on the mix twice a week to prevent metabolic bone disease.
Water, treats, and transitions
Provide a shallow water dish that holds 4–6oz (120–180ml) and change it daily; a drip bottle can keep water fresh between changes. If the hedgehog prefers bottled water, keep the temperature between 65–70°F (18–21°C) to encourage drinking.
Treats should never exceed 5–10% of total intake, which translates to about 1 teaspoon (≈3g) of fruit bite or cooked egg per day. When switching brands of kibble or introducing a new insect, do it over 3–5 days: replace 20% of the old food each day to avoid digestive upset.
Common feeding mistakes
Overfeeding is the most frequent error; giving more than 2.5tbsp (≈35g) daily often leads to obesity, visible as a rounded belly and reduced activity. Underfeeding, especially in juveniles, shows up as a weight loss of more than 0.1lb (≈45g) in a week and a dull coat.
Watch the stool: firm, dark pellets indicate a balanced diet, while loose, watery droppings suggest excess moisture or a sudden diet change. If you notice a weight swing of ±5% within two weeks, re‑measure portions with a scale and adjust by 10% increments.
- Measure every meal with a scale, not by eye.
- Limit treats to ≤10% of total calories.
- Transition new foods over 3–5 days.
- Check weight weekly; aim for <5% change.
- Keep water fresh and at 65–70°F.
Keep reading about African Pygmy Hedgehog: African Pygmy Hedgehog care sheet
Related questions
How many calories does an adult hedgehog need each day?
An adult African Pygmy Hedgehog requires roughly 30–40kcal per day, which is supplied by 1–2tbsp (15–30g) of mixed diet.
Can I feed my hedgehog only cat kibble?
No. Cat kibble alone lacks the insect protein and calcium; supplement with at least 20% live insects and a weekly pinch of calcium‑D3 powder.
What sign shows my hedgehog is over‑fed?
A belly that hangs low, reduced nighttime activity, and a weight gain of more than 0.2lb (≈90g) over two weeks signal over‑feeding.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your african pygmy hedgehog is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.