Hedgehogs are an adorable and unique type of animal, making them a popular pet choice for many households. When considering whether to adopt a hedgehog, it is important to understand the basics of their care and how long they live.
In this article, we will explore the lifespan of hedgehogs and the factors that can affect it.
We will also discuss some tips for keeping your hedgehog healthy and happy for as long as possible.
How long do hedgehogs live as pets?
Hedgehogs typically live 4-6 years in captivity, but some may live as long as 8-10 years. They live longer in captivity than in the wild because they are better protected from predators and have access to more consistent care and nutrition.
The oldest recorded hedgehog lifespan was 14 years and 10 months old when it passed away.
How long do African pygmy hedgehogs live?
African pygmy hedgehogs typically live for 4-7 years, although with proper care and nutrition, some individuals can live up to 10 years. They live longer than other small pets such as hamsters, gerbils, and mice. So they can be a better pet for children as they can enjoy the pet for a longer period of time.
How can you prolong the life of a pet hedgehog?
These are some sensible tips for ensuring that your pet hedgehog lives as long a life as possible:
- Provide a healthy diet: Feed your hedgehog a balanced diet of specially formulated hedgehog food, fresh vegetables, and small amounts of lean, cooked meats.
- Provide a clean habitat: Clean your hedgehog’s cage regularly and replace the bedding frequently.
- Regularly groom your hedgehog: Use a soft brush to brush your hedgehog’s quills, and trim their nails as needed.
- Provide a safe environment: Hedgehogs are easily scared, so make sure their habitat is quiet and free from loud noises and sudden movements.
- Provide plenty of exercise: Hedgehogs are active animals, so make sure they have plenty of room to explore and play.
- Protect against parasites: Have your vet check your hedgehog regularly for parasites and other health problems.
- Keep your hedgehog warm: Hedgehogs are sensitive to temperatures, so make sure their habitat is kept at a comfortable temperature.
Are hedgehogs hard to keep alive?
No, hedgehogs are relatively easy to keep alive, as long as they are provided with the proper environment, diet, and care.
They need a large cage with a substrate such as aspen shavings, and a wheel for exercise. They also need a proper diet, which should include a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, protein sources such as mealworms, and a quality hedgehog food.
They should also have access to a shallow water dish.
Lastly, they need their nails trimmed regularly, and they should be taken to the vet for regular checkups.
What do pet hedgehogs die from?
Pet hedgehogs can die from a variety of causes, including dehydration, poor nutrition, injuries, infections, parasites, and accidental poisoning. Overheating or cold temperatures can also be fatal.
Will hedgehogs live longer if they hibernate?
No, hibernation does not necessarily help hedgehogs live longer. In fact, hibernation can be dangerous for hedgehogs as they are vulnerable to dehydration, hypothermia and fungal infections.
Wild hedgehogs often have no option except to hibernate in order to try and survive the cold weather and lack of food.
Pet hedgehogs should never be allowed to hibernate as it can be deadly.
How long do hedgehogs live in the wild?
Hedgehogs usually live for between two and four years in the wild.
Hedgehogs have short lifespans because they are a prey species, meaning they are hunted by other animals.
This means they are constantly under threat of predation, which makes it difficult for them to survive long-term. In addition, they have a wide range of predators, from birds of prey to foxes and badgers.
They are also vulnerable to humans, as they are often hunted for “sport” and are eaten baked on clay or kept as pets.
Furthermore, hedgehogs are prone to certain diseases and parasites, which can shorten their lifespans.
As someone who grew up in a country where wild hedgehogs were quite common, sadly another thing that kills many hedgehogs is being run over by cars. I used to frequently see squashed hedgehogs in the road.
In Conclusion
Hedgehogs are fascinating animals with a wide variety of species and a long lifespan. While their life expectancy varies from species to species, the average hedgehog can live up to five years with proper care and diet.
If you are considering a pet hedgehog, it is important to research the particular species you are interested in so you can provide the best possible care and environment for your pet. With the right care, your hedgehog can live a long and happy life.
I have been fascinated by wild hedgehogs since I was a boy as they used to come into my parent’s garden every night. In later years I found two very small hedgehogs in late November two years running and fostered them through the winter indoors before releasing them in the spring.
