History and general information
Nocternal
Do hedgehog cages need to have a solid floor or wire floor
Solid floor
What are Hedgehogs (herbavore, omnivore, insectivose or carnivores)
they are mainly insectivores, but may eat small frogs or snakes.
can hedgehogs get mites?
yes
When do female hedgehogs (sows) reach maturity
8 weeks of age
How many spines do hedgehogs have and what are they made of?
5,000-7,000 spines that are made of keratin
What do Hedgehog cages need
Litter pan/box, nesting box, exercise wheel, water bottle.
Do hedgehogs eat during the day or at night
At night (nocturnal)
What causes eye infections
When sand, dirt or other foreign material gets in the eye
At what age should you breed a female?
6 months
There are how many recognized colors?
The International Hedgehog Association recognizes 92 colors
What are hedgehog cages typically made out of?
Plastic, fiberglass, and glass. Sometimes wood is used but it is harder to clean.
If you need to change their diet should it be done fast or slow
It should be a very gradual change
What causes most diseases
Poor hygienic conditions
What controls a females estrous cycle
temperature, daylight hours, and food supply.
Number of hedgehog species
14 species
What floor covering should not be used
Sawdust, it can cause respiratory problems.
What needs to be included in a hedgehogs diet
Proteins, fats, minerals, vitamins, and fiber.
What things to you have to manage (brushing etc)
you have to trim their toenails,and you can clean their spines with a toothbrush
Litter size
1-7, but 3 is average
What states are hedgehogs illegal in? (7)
Georgia, California, Pennsylvania, Alabama, Maine, Vermont, and Hawaii. (there are some restrictions in other states but they are not listed here
What is the minimum floor space
2 square feet
What can be given to hedgehogs as treats?
earthworms, wax worms, and crickets
How often should fresh bedding be provided
How long is gestation?
35 days