Hedgehogs are adorable little lads who often love to play. As a side element, please imagine (or actually listen to) Green Hill Zone as you read this. As a pet parent, it’s vital that you not only provide nourishment both physically, but emotionally as well. Part of this is ensuring your little gal/guy has toys and fun habitat elements so they can live their healthiest life. Here’s our top picks for toys and enrichment items to boost the fun-meter in your hedgehog’s life!

1. Hedgehog Wheels:

• Spinner Wheels: This is why we mentioned Green Hill Zone – your hedgehog has gotta go fast! In all seriousness, wheels are great, and since they will do it at their leisure, a silent wheel will make those 3 a.m. sprints a lot more tolerable. Ensure a safe and quiet exercise experience for your hedgehog. Choose wheels with a solid surface to prevent any potential injury to delicate hedgehog feet.

2. Tunnels and Hideouts:

• Snuggle Sacks: These are straight up designed for hedgehogs. Soft and cozy, these fleece-lined sacks offer a warm retreat for your hedgehog to rest in or sleep. Look for options with an open-ended design for easy entry and exit, depending on how snuggly your little dude is.
• Pop-up Tunnels: Made with wires and cloth, and fairly cheap, these lightweight and collapsible tunnels provide an adventurous space for your hedgehog to explore, satisfying their natural instincts.

3. Chew Toys:

• Natural Wood Chews: Hedgehogs enjoy gnawing on safe, untreated wood. Wooden toys not only fulfill their instinct to chew but also aid in maintaining healthy teeth.
• Edible Treat Logs: Satisfy your hedgehog’s taste buds with treat logs made from safe, natural ingredients. Ensure they are specifically designed for small animals.

4. Interactive Feeding Toys:

• Puzzle Feeders: Stimulate your hedgehog’s mind by providing food in interactive puzzle feeders. This encourages natural foraging behaviors and keeps them mentally active.
• Snuffle Mats: Hide treats within the fabric strands of a snuffle mat, promoting sensory exploration and mental stimulation during mealtime.

5. Soft Toys & Mazes

• Soft Plush Toys: Choose soft, plush toys without small parts or loose threads. Hedgehogs may enjoy cuddling with or pushing around these gentle companions.
• PVC Pipe Mazes: Create a mini-maze using PVC pipes to add an exciting dimension to your hedgehog’s play area. Ensure the pipes are clean and free from any sharp edges.

6. Treats:

• Freeze-Dried Insects: Offer a variety of freeze-dried insects as occasional treats during training sessions. Ensure they are appropriate for hedgehogs and contribute to a balanced diet.
• Mealworms: A hedgehog favorite, mealworms can be used as tasty rewards for positive behavior during training.

Important Note: Always supervise playtime to ensure the safety of your hedgehog. Regularly inspect toys for any signs of wear or damage, and replace them as needed. Introduce new toys gradually to allow your hedgehog to become familiar with them. Consult with a veterinarian to ensure the treats and toys you choose are suitable for your hedgehog’s health and dietary needs.