Pet hedgehogs are insectivores that need a high-protein, moderate-fat diet. This guide covers the best staple food, safe insect and treat additions, portion sizes to prevent obesity, and the everyday foods that are toxic or harmful so you can feed with confidence.
Feed a pet African pygmy hedgehog a high-protein, low-to-moderate fat diet built around a quality staple kibble, topped with a few insects and occasional lean cooked meat or a little vegetable. Avoid milk, chocolate, grapes, avocado, and sugary or fatty human foods. Fresh water should always be available.
Pet hedgehogs are insectivores that need a high-protein, moderate-fat diet.
Hedgehogs are insectivores by nature, so their diet should be protein-rich and relatively low in fat. In captivity, live insects alone are not balanced, so most keepers build meals around a good staple kibble and add insects as a natural, enriching topper.
A high-quality kibble is the foundation. Look for a food with around 30-35% protein and under about 15% fat, with a named meat as the first ingredient. Many keepers use a premium high-protein cat kibble or a purpose-made hedgehog food. Avoid cheap foods loaded with grains, fillers, or sugars.
A quality high-protein kibble forms the base, with insects and a little lean cooked meat as toppers.
Live or dried insects such as mealworms, crickets, and dubia roaches are excellent enrichment and protein. Offer them in small amounts because fatty insects like waxworms are treats only. Small pieces of plain cooked chicken or egg, and tiny amounts of certain vegetables, can add variety. Introduce anything new gradually.
Keep grapes, chocolate, avocado, dairy and sugary or fatty human foods away from hedgehogs.
Some everyday foods are harmful or toxic. Never feed chocolate, grapes or raisins, avocado, onion or garlic, or anything salty, sugary, or fried. Skip cow's milk and most dairy, as hedgehogs are lactose intolerant. Hard nuts, seeds, and sticky foods can also cause choking or get stuck in the mouth.
Most adult hedgehogs do well on about one to two tablespoons of kibble each night, adjusted to keep a healthy shape. A wheel for exercise plus controlled treats prevents the obesity that is so common in pets. Weigh your hedgehog weekly on a kitchen scale to catch changes early.
Can hedgehogs drink milk?
No. Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant and milk causes digestive upset. Offer fresh water instead.
Can I feed only mealworms?
No. An all-mealworm diet is too fatty and unbalanced. Use insects as a topper over a proper staple.
What fruit or veg is safe?
Tiny amounts of certain cooked or soft vegetables and low-sugar fruit can be occasional treats, but avoid grapes, citrus, and anything sugary. Keep produce to a small part of the diet.
How do I know if my hedgehog is overweight?
If it cannot curl fully into a ball and has visible fat rolls, it is likely overweight. Ask your vet to confirm and adjust portions.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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