What to Feed Your Hedgehog: The Ultimate Guide to Insects and Proteins

I remember the first time I brought home my hedgehog, Prickles. Those tiny, curious eyes and that little snuffly nose had me hooked from day one. But as a new hedgehog parent, I was clueless about what to feed her. I wanted to make sure she was getting the best nutrition possible, but the internet was full of conflicting advice. It was overwhelming, to say the least. That’s when I decided to dig deeper and really understand what makes a hedgehog’s diet tick. Turns out, insects and proteins are the cornerstone of their nutrition. They’re not just treats—they’re essential for keeping our spiky friends healthy, happy, and full of energy.

In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about the best insects and proteins for hedgehogs, so you can skip the confusion and get straight to feeding your little buddy the good stuff. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned hedgie owner, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive in!

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Why Insects and Proteins Are Hedgehog Superfoods

Hedgehogs are insectivores by nature. In the wild, they’d spend their nights foraging for bugs, worms, and the occasional small critter. Their bodies are built to thrive on diets rich in protein and low in fat. When we bring them into our homes, it’s our job to mimic that natural diet as closely as possible. A good mix of insects and proteins keeps their muscles strong, their quills shiny, and their energy levels high.

But not all proteins are created equal. Some are nutritional goldmines, while others can cause more harm than good. I learned this the hard way when Prickles started turning her nose up at certain foods and looking a little lackluster. After some trial and error (and a few vet visits), I figured out what works best. Spoiler: It’s all about variety and quality.

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The Best Insects for Your Hedgehog: A Bug Buffet

Insects are like candy to hedgehogs—they go wild for them. Beyond being a tasty treat, they’re packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. Here’s a rundown of the top picks that Prickles and I swear by:

Mealworms: The Classic Crowd-Pleaser

If there’s one insect that hedgehogs universally adore, it’s mealworms. I still remember the first time I dropped a mealworm into Prickles’ enclosure. She pounced on it like it was the last bug on earth. It was love at first bite.

• Why They’re Great: Mealworms offer around 20% protein and are low in fat, making them a perfect staple. They’re also rich in fiber, which aids digestion.
• How to Serve Them: You can offer them live or dried. Prickles prefers the live ones—watching her “hunt” them is pure entertainment. Just ensure they’re from a reputable source to avoid pesticides or contaminants.

Crickets: The Protein Powerhouse

Crickets are another favorite in our household. They’re a bit more work (those jumpy legs!), but the nutritional payoff is worth it.

• Why They’re Great: Crickets pack a serious protein punch—up to 60% when dried. They’re also loaded with calcium, which supports strong bones and quills.
• How to Serve Them: I usually buy them freeze-dried to avoid the hassle of keeping them alive. Prickles doesn’t mind; she gobbles them up either way.

Waxworms: The Occasional Treat

Waxworms are like the dessert of the insect world—rich, fatty, and oh-so-tempting. I’ll admit, I’ve spoiled Prickles with these a bit too much, but I’ve learned to keep them as a special treat.

• Why They’re Great: High in fat, they’re good for underweight hedgehogs or those needing an energy boost. For most, though, they’re best in moderation.
• How to Serve Them: Live or dried, but sparingly. I give Prickles one or two a week, usually as a reward for being extra cute (which is always).

Superworms: The Big Bite

Superworms are like mealworms’ bigger, beefier cousins. They’re a bit tougher, so they’re better suited for adult hedgehogs with strong jaws.

• Why They’re Great: They’re high in protein and have a balanced fat content. Their size makes them a satisfying snack.
• How to Serve Them: Live is best—Prickles loves the challenge. Just supervise, as superworms can bite back if not handled properly.

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Beyond Bugs: Other Protein Sources for Hedgehogs

While insects are the star of the show, they’re not the only way to meet your hedgehog’s protein needs. Here are some other options that have worked wonders for Prickles:

High-Quality Cat Food: The Convenient Staple

When I first got Prickles, I was surprised to learn that cat food could be a hedgehog’s main meal. But not just any cat food—it has to be the good stuff.

• Why It’s Great: Look for brands with at least 30% protein and less than 15% fat. The first ingredient should be real meat, like chicken or turkey.
• How to Serve It: I mix Prickles’ kibble with a bit of warm water to make it easier on her teeth. She’s not getting any younger, after all.

Cooked Chicken: The Homemade Hero

One day, I was prepping dinner and thought, “Why not share?” I boiled a small piece of chicken, shredded it, and offered it to Prickles. She devoured it in seconds.

• Why It’s Great: Chicken is lean, packed with protein, and easy to digest. It’s also a great way to bond—Prickles knows when I’m cooking and always hopes for a taste.
• How to Serve It: Plain, unseasoned, and finely chopped. No salt, no spices—just pure protein goodness.

Scrambled Eggs: The Breakfast of Champions

Who says breakfast is just for humans? Prickles loves a bit of scrambled egg now and then, and it’s a fantastic protein boost.

• Why It’s Great: Eggs are rich in protein and healthy fats, plus they’re simple to prepare.
• How to Serve It: Scramble them without oil or seasoning. I give Prickles a teaspoon-sized portion once a week.

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The Protein Pitfalls: What to Avoid

Not all proteins are hedgehog-friendly. Here are a few I’ve learned to steer clear of:

• Raw Meat: Too risky—bacteria like salmonella can wreak havoc on their tiny systems.
• Processed Meats: Things like ham or sausage are too salty and fatty.
• Dairy: Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant. I made the mistake of giving Prickles a tiny piece of cheese once. Let’s just say it didn’t end well for either of us.

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How to Create the Perfect Hedgehog Meal Plan

Now that you know the best insects and proteins, let’s talk about putting it all together. Here’s what a typical day looks like for Prickles:

• Evening Meal: A tablespoon of high-quality cat food, softened with water.
• Insect Snack: 2-3 mealworms or a couple of crickets.
• Weekly Treats: A small piece of cooked chicken or a bit of scrambled egg.

I also rotate her insects to keep things interesting. One week it’s mealworms, the next it’s crickets. Variety keeps her engaged and ensures she gets a range of nutrients.

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Quick Tips for Feeding Success

• Portion Control: Hedgehogs are small—1 to 2 tablespoons of food per day is plenty.
• Fresh Water: Always available, always clean. Prickles prefers a shallow dish over a bottle.
• Monitor Weight: Keep an eye on your hedgehog’s weight. If they’re looking plump, cut back on fatty treats.
• Observe Preferences: Every hedgehog is different. Prickles hates waxworms, but your hedgie might love them.

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Wrapping It Up: Feed Your Hedgehog Like a Pro

Feeding your hedgehog doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By focusing on high-quality insects and proteins, you’re giving them the best shot at a long, healthy life. Prickles is living proof—her coat is shinier, her energy is up, and she’s as spunky as ever. If you’re ever in doubt, just remember: stick to what they’d eat in the wild, and you can’t go wrong.

Got a favorite hedgehog snack I didn’t mention? I’d love to hear about it—I’m always looking for new ways to spoil Prickles. Here’s to happy, healthy hedgehogs