Of course, hedgehogs in captivity also need daily food and water. This is very important for hedgehogs, because if they get less food and the days get shorter, you could inadvertently encourage a hibernation attempt. In addition, their organs are very sensitive and after 48 hours of no food, fatty liver can occur. Both problems can lead to premature death, so proper care is very important!
Food
A hedgehog is allowed about 2 tablespoons of kibble every day. Insects can also be fed daily, but pay attention to the weight of the hedgehog. If the hedgehog becomes too fat, feed less chunks. Meat and insects are a very important food source for the hedgehog. Or go for insects and meat with less fat and protein. Wax moths and similar insects with high fat contents should not be fed more often than once a week. Fruit and vegetables in very small quantities, hedgehogs can only digest cellulose poorly. Preferably no more than once a week and only vegetables and fruit from the food list. In any case, clean the food bowls every week, more often is of course also allowed.
Water
Hedgehogs need fresh water every day. Because they occur naturally in areas where it is often dry for long periods, they already extract a lot of water from the meat and possibly vegetables and fruit. So they don't drink a lot, but what they drink must of course be clean. It is therefore really important to change the water every day, after that time bacteria have more chance to grow. So clean the water bowl equally well every day.
Types of bowls
It is best to buy food and water bowls made of stone materials. These bins are quite heavy and are more difficult to throw by the hedgehog when they dig in the ground cover. Hedgehogs have a knack for knocking over the bins if they are light enough to do so. Some metal containers with a raised edge for extra strength are also suitable. Make sure that the rubber does not protrude too far and that they cannot get it in.
