Top Rated Hedgehog Food for 2021 – A Comprehensive Comparison
If you are in a hurry and, as a result, lack the time to do extensive research on food for hedgehogs, we’ve got you covered. Because we know how tricky it is to navigate through the huge amount of information the internet can provide on this topic, we took it upon ourselves to do the legwork for you. After carefully assessing the market, Dr. Fox has concluded that the Spike’s Delite Hedgehog is the product you should settle for due to the fact that it is a healthy and dependable product. Moreover, this pet food can be fed to both baby and adult hedgehogs. If the Spike’s Delite Hedgehog is out of stock, give the Tasty Worms Freeze a good look, as it is an alternative worth taking into account.
Comparison table
This product has been formulated to be used as the primary source of nourishment for hedgehogs. Moreover, it contains fish proteins and chicken, which is a reason why these pets like it. The item is suitable for hedgehogs that are in their reproductive stage.
The product is considered a bit pricey by some purchasers. However, its many repeat buyers like it because of its high-quality.
This food is not only healthy but also very tasty. Therefore, this is a safe buy if you own a picky eater. What is more, the product comes in a sizeable bag.
Although this product contains frozen worms, it does not emit a bad smell. On top of that, the food does not need to be rehydrated. As a plus, this model is rich in protein, fat, and fibers. Therefore, your pet’s nutritional needs will undoubtedly be met. Also, it is well liked by hedgehogs.
Some buyers consider that buying live worms is a better choice. Still, this food is more complex from a nutritional point of view.
The model has received great reviews from former buyers. Even more so, this product can be safely stored near the cage of the pet without having to deal with a foul odor.
If you are in search of a product that is not very dry, this is the item for you. This food was manufactured in such a way so that the pets that you are feeding it to get healthy and complete nutrition. What is more, this type of food is particularly easy to chew by older pets.
Although the model has received numerous positive reviews, there have been buyers that pointed out that this food is expensive.
This product has been made in the UK, and it is said to cater to the needs of a hedgehog. Additionally, this food is tasty and well-liked by most hedgies that have tired it.
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Also To Consider
8 Best Hedgehog Foods (Reviews) in 2021
As the results of the research we have carried out indicate, the products showcased below are items that should be taken into consideration by all shoppers looking for the best food for a hedgehog, for sale. Hence, keep on reading and pick the product that you consider to be suitable for your hedgie’s needs.
- 1. Spike’s Delite Hedgehog Premium
- 2. Tasty Worms Freeze Dried Mealworms
- 3. Spikes Semi Moist Hedgehog Food
- 4. Royal Canin Kitten Dry Food
- 5. Hill’s Cat Food Kitten Food Chicken Dry Mix
- 6. Halo Natural Dry Cat Food
- 7. Blue Buffalo Indoor Hairball & Weight Control Natural Dry Cat Food
- 8. Chicken Soup for the Soul Adult Cat Food
- Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
1. Spike’s Delite Hedgehog Premium
A favorite among users, the Spike’s Delite Hedgehog is one of the products that you should definitely consider if you are looking for the best hedgehog food on the market.
Because it follows a line of tradition, the manufacturer, Suncoast Sugar Gliders, developed a reliable and nutritive recipe that is ideal for hedgehogs. Therefore, this product is said to have the right combination of minerals and vitamins so that it supplies specific nutrition for your hedgehog.
As a result, you can feed the formula to young growing pet, as well as to adult hedgehogs. Due to the fact that it contains chicken, whole soy, and fish protein, the product is tasty and your spiky friend will most definitely like it. Even more so, current reviews and comments show that Spike’s Delite Hedgehog is a favorite among hedgies.
Additionally, the product comes in a bag that is quite sizeable (1.5 pounds). So, you can rest assured that you won’t run out of food for your little friend anytime soon.
Pros
The product is ideal to use with both small hedgehogs and adults. So, you won’t have to think about buying a new product for when your little one is all grown up.
Its nutritive formula is great for adult pets that are in their reproductive stage.
It comes in a 1.5 pound bag, a plus for most buyers.
As users point out, the product is very much liked by the majority of animals.
Cons
Some users consider this product a bit expensive. However, the same users say that given its quality in comparison to other alternatives, the Spike’s Delite Hedgehog is a safe bet.
There have been cases where buyers noticed that their pet did not like the product from the beginning. Yet, as the reviews show, the number of such cases is really small.
2. Tasty Worms Freeze Dried Mealworms
Tasty Worms Freeze is another alternative that is worth taking into account by those looking for the best for their pets. As users claim, this product is well priced and of great quality. Although the fact that the product contains frozen worms might be troubling to some, it is good to know that the worms do not have a particular, distinct smell. Thus you can keep them in close proximity to the pet’s cage, without any worry.
What is more, the manufacturer argues that although the worms are dry, they are more nutritionally dense than live mealworms. Consequently, your animal will be able to enjoy the quality of the product, without you having to feed it worms that are still alive.
Furthermore, it is said that the freeze drying process used in the making of the product retains more nutrients than when the ingredients are simply dried in an oven.
Pros
The dried mealworms are a great alternative to live mealworms, especially during the hot days of summer when the smell is more difficult to contain.
The fact that the mealworms are dried and placed in airtight bags means that you can safely store them for later use.
You don’t need to rehydrate them for your pet, as it will most likely like them the way they come shipped.
They are composed out of 53% protein, 28% fat, 6% fiber, 5% moisture, a `recipe` that is optimal for these kinds of pets.
Cons
Some buyers said that they prefer to buy the live alternative. However, if compared, the dried mealworms are nutritionally more complex thanks to the fact that they lack moisture.
There have been users that said that the price is a bit high. Still, if you weigh the qualities of the product with that of the live alternative, the Tasty Worms Freeze has a great price for value ratio.
3. Spikes Semi Moist Hedgehog Food
Last but not least, we could not end this list without mentioning Spike’s Hedgehog Food. As some users have noticed, this product is a safe option that is neither too dry nor too moist. Hence, you can easily combine it with other different types of food in order to provide your pet with the best meal possible.
According to the manufacturer, the product is particularly tasty, the reason why hedgehogs enjoy it. Moreover, the fact that the food was specifically made for hedgehogs means that the pet owners can rest assured knowing that their spiky friends will get all the nutrients needed in the form of tasty food.
As a plus, this particular brand of hedgehog food is produced in the U.K. and has been approved by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society. As stated on the packaging, the product includes meat and animal derivatives, cereals, various sugars, oils and fats, yeasts and minerals.
Pros
Because it is custom made for hedgehogs, the pets love it. Therefore, you don’t have to worry whether or not your hedgie will like it.
Due to the fact that this food is semi-moist and easy to chew, animals are bound to have no trouble eating it.
Although it originates from the U.K., the product is shipped quickly.
It has been deemed appropriate by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, a qualification that confirms the fact that this is a high-quality product.
Cons
There have been users that remarked that this product is a little expensive by comparison to other alternatives. In spite of that, the same users believed that the product is worth the extra money.
If your hedgehog is used to eat cat food, it might take it a while to get used to the taste of this new food. As a way to make the transition easier, you could start combining the two.
4. Royal Canin Kitten Dry Food
The product is available in three different package sizes, ranging from 3.5 pounds to 15 pounds. If you’re feeding your hedgehog this type of food for the first time, we suggest opting for the smallest package to see how it adjusts.
The Royal Canin Feline Health Nutrition for kittens is perfect for baby hedgehogs less than six months old. The unique formula will develop the immune system and will provide all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for a healthy growth.
The innovative combination of proteins and minerals offers the right amount of energy so your little pet can start exploring from its earliest stages of life.
The kibble’s small texture is easy to chew and won’t cause health problems to the tiny mouths of hedgehogs. Keep in mind that a good cat food for hedgehogs must contain at least 30% animal protein and 15% fat to ensure the healthy development of the eyes and brain, as well as a strong immune system.
Pros
The food contains a unique blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your pet’s healthy growth.
It is enriched with prebiotics to promote the good development of the digestive system.
It is a powerful source of digestible animal proteins, just what your baby hedgehog needs in its first stages of life.
The small-sized and soft textured kibbles are easy to chew and digest, which won’t cause any harm to your pet’s small mouth.
The product is also a rich source of vitamins A, B6, C, D3, and E, everything your pet requires for strong bones, healthy teeth, and a good vision, considering that hedgehogs are notorious for their poor eyesight.
Cons
The food is rich in carbohydrates and empty calories. It contains meat by-products which are not a valuable source of proteins, especially for baby animals.
Keep in mind that serving this type of diet daily to your hedgehog could easily lead to overweight and obesity problems, especially if it doesn’t even benefit from specific exercising wheels for hedgehogs in the cage.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($53.93)
5. Hill’s Cat Food Kitten Food Chicken Dry Mix
The product is specifically formulated for kittens but could prove a reliable source of proteins for baby hedgehogs as well.
Dry chicken is the number one ingredient in this food, a reliable source of animal proteins that will help your pet enjoy a healthy growth. It is enriched with natural DHA to support optimal brain development.
Thanks to the clinically approved unique blend of antioxidants, your pet will benefit from a strong immune system and will stay away from health problems.
What we liked about this Hill’s Science food is that it is made of natural ingredients, and is enriched with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids for a complete care. There are no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, meaning it can be safely fed to pets of all ages, including baby hedgehogs.
It is a trustworthy source of vitamins A, B12, C, D3, and E, as well as zinc, biotin, and folic acid.
Pros
The product is specifically formulated for kittens but can be safely fed to hedgehogs as well.
It is made with real chicken as the number one ingredient, ensuring a rich source of proteins that your hedgehog will require to grow strong and healthy.
The unique combination of antioxidants is mandatory for the immune system.
The kibbles in this food are small and easy to digest, promoting the health of the digestive system as well.
It doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives, colors or flavors, so you can rest assured it won’t cause any allergic reactions.
Cons
Some customers claimed there was a change in the formula and that their pets were not pleased with the new taste.
If you intend feeding your hedgehog this product, we suggest purchasing the smallest package available to avoid spending money on a food your pet might not like.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($23.99)
6. Halo Natural Dry Cat Food
This product is specifically formulated to meet the needs of adult cats but could also prove a great option for adult hedgehogs.
It contains the right amount of proteins and carbohydrates to ensure the optimum level of energy. It is available in two delicious flavors – wild salmon and whitefish or chicken and chicken liver, so make sure to find the right one for your hedgie.
The food is also sold in packages of various sizes, ranging from 3 pounds to 11.5 pounds, but we suggest purchasing the smallest package first.
Real chicken meat or fish represent the number one ingredient in this product, and there are no meat by-products or chicken meals included. Therefore, your hedgie will only receive the highest quality ingredients to ensure a happy, healthy and active life.
The added vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids will strengthen the bones and teeth and they will also offer a shiny coat.
This item is made of natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
Pros
It provides a balanced nutrition for all life stages.
The kibbles are small and easy to digest even by hedgehogs.
Made with real meat as the number one ingredient, the food will provide a balanced and nutritious diet for your pet, be it a cat or a hedgehog.
Thanks to the added vitamins, minerals, and Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, your pet will benefit from a complete diet that will strengthen its immune system.
It is made only using high-quality ingredients, and there aren’t any meat by-products or meals. The food doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or preservatives either, so it can be safely fed even to the most pretentious pets.
Cons
Just like with many other products, some customers claimed there was a change in the recipe that caused certain health issues, including diarrhea. If you’re feeding your hedgie this product for the first time, we suggest you monitor its behavior and contact a veterinarian if you notice anything suspicious.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($26.18)
7. Blue Buffalo Indoor Hairball & Weight Control Natural Dry Cat Food
What we liked the most about the food is the variety of flavors it comes with. You can choose from the simple chicken recipe to the chicken and brown rice recipe or the one specifically designed for pets with sensitive stomachs.
It is made with real chicken as the number one ingredient, providing a reliable source of proteins. It includes an excellent selection of whole grains and veggies for a complete and balanced diet with vitamins, minerals, and natural antioxidants.
The food promotes a healthy digestive system, will strengthen the bones and will also provide a luscious coat.
There are no chicken or poultry by-product meals, meaning the food is easily digestible by your cat or hedgehog.
Formulated for adult pets, the product is carefully created to provide the maximum level of energy without empty calories or carbs that can lead to overweight or obesity problems. Apart from this food, don’t forget to also offer your hedgehog insects, fresh fruits, and veggies.
Pros
This item contains real chicken as the number one ingredient, providing a reliable source of proteins for your hedgehog. Keep in mind that animal proteins are the only ones digested by hedgehogs, and they are essential for a healthy growth and a strong immune system.
It is available in a variety of delicious flavors, including chicken, salmon, and turkey so you can feed your friend a new tasty product each day.
There is also a weight control formula specifically designed for adult pets that struggle with overweight or obesity.
The product is made of high-quality ingredients, including whole grains and delicious veggies for a complete and balanced diet.
Cons
The sensitive stomach mix may not be a good choice for pets that struggle with digestive systems, according to some of the customers. If you plan on changing your hedgehog’s diet, it would be best to talk to a veterinarian.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($21.98)
8. Chicken Soup for the Soul Adult Cat Food
What animal doesn’t enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal? This exclusive product from Chicken Soup for the Soul is slow cooked to maintain all the natural flavors and the properties of the high-quality ingredients.
It is enriched with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to promote a healthy and shiny coat. It also contains a unique mix of poultry, fish, fruits, veggies, and grain to ensure the complete and balanced nutrition that your cat or hedgehog requires.
We recommend serving your pet a variety of dry and wet foods, including small insects and fresh fruits and veggies. Don’t forget that your hedgehog’s diet must rely on proteins and fats to ensure a healthy development and a long and happy life.
Some of the ingredients include chicken, chicken liver and chicken broth, salmon, turkey broth, duck, whole grain brown rice, dried egg products, and a unique selection of veggies and fruits – apples, peas, carrots, and cranberries.
Pros
The product provides a complete and balanced nutrition for your adult cat or hedgehog. It includes high-quality animal protein sources to ensure strong bones. Enriched with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, this food will also promote a shiny coat.
Since hedgehogs are mainly nocturnal animals, the nutrients contained in the carrots will promote a good vision.
This item is slow cooked to preserve all the natural flavors and the nutritious values of the ingredients used.
It can be fed alone or as part of a balanced and healthy diet that must also include small insects, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Cons
Offering multiple sources of animal proteins may cause digestive problems to your hedgehog in the long term.
Also, not all the ingredients contained in this pate are beneficial to your pet. Cassia gum and xanthan gum are common food additives and thickening agents.
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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
Still wondering what features you should bear in mind while searching for food for your hedgie? If so, this short but complete buying guide should provide you with the needed information so that you end up buying a great quality product.
Is the model suitable or not?
If you thought that finding a hedgehog house was a difficult task, you did not know what you had coming. One of the most important aspects that all pet owners have to deal with when it comes to taking care of their pet is settling for the right type of food.
Because hedgehogs are animals that should be supplied with a high protein, low-fat diet, it is best if you settle for a product that is able to ensure that your pet receives the right nutrients.
Likewise, always keep in mind that, because hedgehogs are first of all insectivores, it would be best if you were able to buy a product that contains insects such as mealworms. Our advice to you is that you order a product that contains worms that have been frozen and dried, as they have a denser consistency than the live alternative.
Dry or moist food
Owing to the fact that hedgehogs are known to eat not only insects but also vegetables, it might sometimes be difficult to decide what type of food to buy, moist or dry. As specialists indicate, it is important that the primary source of protein in your spiky friend’s diet comes from dry food, especially the type that includes chicken or another type of meat.
However, moist food is also important in the pet’s regime, as it is easier to eat. If, after a change in diet, you notice that your pet is gaining weight, it is a good idea to think about investing in a brand new wheel for hedgehog.
Focus on the well-being of the pet
As we also mentioned when talking about bedding for hedgehogs, the comfort and safety of the pet are the most important aspects that you should have in mind. Consequently, it is crucial that you find a product that is healthy and reliable.
Besides, it would be a good idea to buy a type of food that is well liked by the pet. There are, as reviews and users’ comments show, specific pet food formulas that are better received by hedgehogs than others.
For this reason, it would be best if you spent some time reading comments and reviews left by the current users of the product you like best. By doing so, you’ll be able to get a better grip on the way in which the animals act when first introduced to the chosen product.
Similarly, always try to make sure that your pet has a balanced diet that includes both insect/meat and vegetables. Nevertheless, before you introduce a new type of meal in your pet’s `menu`, be sure to check whether or not that specific food is safe for the hedgehog to eat.
Bibliography:
2) Hedgehog Diet and Housing Needs
3) Useful information about hedgehogs
4) What should I feed a hedgehog?
