How Much Does a Hedgehog Cost?

Last Updated on February 10, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

If you are considering getting a pet hedgehog, it is important to understand the costs involved before making the commitment. Hedgehogs may seem like low-maintenance pets, but they do require proper housing, food, and medical care.

This article will break down the expected expenses so you can budget accordingly for your new spiny friend.

Highlights

• Initial adoption and purchase fees often range from $100 to $250.
• Cage, supplies, and setup can cost $200 to $300 initially.
• Monthly costs for food, bedding, and care average $50 to $150.
• Annual veterinary fees are estimated at $75 to $150 for routine visits.
• Emergency vet funds of $500+ are strongly recommended.
• Exotic pet insurance can offset major healthcare costs.

How Much Does a Hedgehog Cost?

The cost to purchase or adopt a hedgehog ranges from $100 to $250 on average. Baby hedgehogs from breeders typically cost between $150 to $250. Adult hedgehogs adopted from rescues or shelters often cost less, from $100 to $175. Factors like age, color, and pedigree can influence the price.

According to Hedgehog World, the average price of a hedgehog is $100-$300. Additional initial costs for supplies such as food bowl, water bottle, burrowing place, exercise wheel, and heating pads & lamps.

Hedgehog Care 101 emphasizes the importance of considering the ongoing costs of hedgehog care, as the initial cost of a hedgehog is only 150-$300.

A-Z Animals states that the cost of a hedgehog can range from $100 to $300, depending on factors such as color and where you purchase them. It also provides an estimate of the annual cost of hedgehog care.

Hedgehog Heaven provides estimated prices for hedgehogs, with the average price for a baby being around $250-350. It also explains how the price is determined based on factors such as personality and coloration.

Purchasing from a reputable breeder usually costs more upfront but may save on potential vet bills later. Adopting a rescue hedgehog is often cheaper initially, but may require more care if the hog has any pre-existing conditions. Be sure to ask about the hedgehog’s background and health when adopting.

Either way, be prepared to pay the adoption or purchase fee, which is often non-negotiable. This covers the initial cost the breeder or rescue incurred for housing, feeding, and vet care.

Setting Up Your Hedgehog’s New Home

Once you bring your hedgehog home, you will need housing, bedding, and other essential supplies which can cost between $200 to $300.

The minimum recommended cage size for a hedgehog is 4 square feet, though bigger is always better. New cages this size range from $80 to $180. A used tank or cage can sometimes be found for less.

Good bedding options are paper based or aspen shavings, costing $10 to $20 for a large bag. Avoid scented, cedar, or pine shavings. A sturdy wheel suitable for a hedgehog runs $15 to $25. Food and water bowls, toys, and hides will be another $30 to $50.

You may also need heating elements like a ceramic heater ($20) or heating pad ($30) to keep the temperature between 72-80°F. Finally, have an emergency kit with vet wrap, disinfectant, syringes, and other first aid supplies handy, $50 to $75.

Ongoing Care Expenses

Caring for your hedgehog’s daily needs will require an ongoing budget for food, litter, and other supplies.

High-quality hedgehog food costs $15 to $25 per month. Recommended cat foods as supplemental mix-ins can add $5 to $10. Clean, fresh water is essential daily.

Bedding will need frequent changing, requiring $10 to $20 worth of new materials per month. Hedgehogs are generally clean animals, but the bedding can get soiled rapidly.

Provide new toys, chews, and treats to keep your hedgehog enriched. Allot $15 to $30 per month for replacing old toys and offering new stimulation.

You may also need additional heating, lighting, or housing accessories over time. Budget $20 to $50 monthly for utilities and replacement gear as your hedgehog grows. Having an emergency vet fund is highly recommended too.

Potential Veterinary Costs

Vet visits are a reality of pet ownership. Hedgehogs require annual checkups plus any illness or injury care.

A routine vet visit may cost $75 to $150 annually, including exam fees, tests, and preventatives. Emergency vet visits can be $200 or more, so have a fund available.

Common hedgehog health issues like respiratory infections, dental problems, or mites may require medications costing $50 to $250. Cancer and broken bones can cost $500+ to treat. Exotic pet insurance policies can offset major costs.

Other Potential Expenses

If you travel, you may need a pet sitter to care for your hedgehog which could cost $15 to $35 per day.

Some cities require exotic pet permits or licenses, typically $25 to $150 annually.

Also check out the cost of a hamster, fish, or teacup pig

Occasional grooming and nail trims are often wise, averaging $30 to $75 yearly.

Consider these extra costs in your hedgehog budget, though amounts will vary.

Budgeting for a Hedgehog

Caring for a hedgehog has upfront and recurring costs. Budget $400 to $800 for initial setup including the adoption fee, housing, and supplies. Then estimate $50 to $150 per month for food, litter, and health needs.

Have at least $500 set aside for unexpected vet bills too. Exotic pet insurance can help offset major costs if invested in early.

With proper care and precautions, hedgehogs can make affectionate, low-maintenance pets. Make sure your budget allows for their housing and veterinary needs before adopting. Being a responsible hedgehog owner means providing a high quality of life including proper diet, home, and healthcare.

Final Words

Hedgehogs can be fun, rewarding pets for those prepared for the expenses involved. With reasonable budgets and quality care, you can enjoy all the quills and cuddles they have to offer!

Hedgehog FAQs

Do hedgehogs make good pets?

Yes, when properly cared for, hedgehogs can make for good pets. They are quiet, low-odor, and don’t require walks or constant attention. Hedgehogs are solitary so they do well alone.

They can form bonds with owners and enjoy playtime when socialized properly. Key things to know are hedgehogs are nocturnal, need specific housing temperatures, and require an exotic-knowledgeable vet. Do plenty of research before adopting to ensure you can meet their care needs.

How long do hedgehogs live?

The average lifespan of a pet hedgehog is 3-7 years when housed indoors and cared for properly. Some have been known to live up to 10 years, but 5 years old is considered a senior hedgehog.

Providing excellent nutrition, housing, veterinary care, and handling can help maximize your hedgehog’s life expectancy. Genetics and accidental injuries may shorten some hedgehog’s lives. Regularly monitor your pet’s health and behavior as they age.

Are hedgehogs OK alone?

Yes, hedgehogs are solitary animals that do perfectly fine alone. They do not require companionship from other hedgehogs. In fact, multiple hedgehogs housed together may fight and injure one another.

Some hedgehogs tolerate supervised interaction with other pets, but their housing should be single occupancy. Daily quality time with their human owners providing proper handling and mental stimulation is enough socialization for solitary hedgehogs to thrive.

Just be sure to give your single hedgehog plenty of play and snuggle time each day.