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How Much Is a Hedgehog? (Cost to Buy & Keep Hedgehogs)

Hedgehogs cost anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on the color, species, and breeder. Rare hedgehogs, like black or albino hedgehogs, are more expensive than standard hedgehogs.

Are you thinking of adding a hedgehog to your family? 

They’re adorable, but before you add one to your family, you have to understand what they cost to buy.

On top of that, there are certain accessories and supplies you need to buy.

In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of owning a hedgehog and everything you need to know about budgeting. 

From cages and food to vet bills and toys, you can learn about it here. 

How Much Does a Hedgehog Cost?

Hedgehogs typically cost between $100-300, depending on the type of hedgehog you buy, the coloring, where you buy it from, its age, and where you live.

Hedgehogs are small, spiny mammals that make great pets. They are relatively low-maintenance, and their unique appearance makes them a popular choice for people looking for an unusual pet. 

As for price, hedgehogs are inexpensive, compared to many other pets. Hedgehogs typically cost between $100 and $300.

Here are some examples of hedgehog prices.

Hedgehog typePrice
African Pygmy Hedgehog$100-500
Albino Hedgehog$250-350
Black Hedgehog$300-500
European Hedgehog$200-500

Apart from the initial purchase, there are also other things you have to buy.

They need a diet of high-quality hedgehog food mixed with cat food, and access to water. A well-balanced diet will help your hedgehog stay healthy and avoid problems like obesity.[1] 

Hedgehogs also need a cage and a place to hide in it. Make sure to provide them with a hiding box or log.

How Much Does a Hedgehog Cost

One-Time Cost for Hedgehogs

One-time costs for hedgehogs include buying the hedgehog itself, as well as the initial supplies including a cage, water bottles, food bowls, and cage accessories. This runs up to between $500 and $1500.

While hedgehogs are relatively low-maintenance, they do have some needs.

The one-time cost for a hedgehog includes the purchase price, as well as any initial medical costs and supply costs. 

ItemPrice
Hedgehog$100-500
Medical costs$100
Cage$100-300
Hideout$10-20
Total initial cost$300-900

The purchase price for a hedgehog can range from $100 to $500, depending on the breeder and the type of hedgehog. 

Initial medical costs can include a vet visit and vaccinations, which can cost around $100.

The cage costs anywhere from $100 to $3000, depending on the size of the cage, and the quality.

Hedgehogs also need a place to hide in their cage, so you will need to provide them with a hideout of some sort. The cost of a hideout can range from $10 to $20.

You can also build this yourself if you’re working on a budget.

Cost of Hedgehog Supplies

After you’ve bought your hedgehog and the initial other necessities, you have to purchase a variety of supplies. These are things you need to buy every month or year.

Hedgehog supplies include:

  • Food
  • Vet visits and medication
  • Food bowl and water bottle
  • Bedding
  • Treats
  • Toys
  • Housing maintenance

Food

What Do Pet Hedgehogs Eat

One of the most important things you need to consider for your pet is their food. 

A good diet for a hedgehog includes high-quality cat food and access to water. This helps them stay healthy and avoid problems like obesity. 

The cost of food for a hedgehog can range from $10 to $20 per month.

Running Veterinarian and Medication Cost

As with any pet, there will be times when you need to take your hedgehog to the vet. The cost of a vet visit ranges from $50 to $100. 

If your hedgehog needs frequent medication, the cost of this will add up. Hedgehogs are prone to a number of health problems, so it’s important to be prepared for this.[2]

Food Bowl and Water Bottle

Hedgehog Habitat

Hedgehogs need a place to eat and drink, so you will need to purchase a food bowl and water bottle. The cost of these items can range from $5 to $15 each.

Bedding

Hedgehogs like to burrow, so you will need to provide them with bedding material that they can burrow in. The best bedding material is either aspen shavings or recycled paper products. Avoid using cedar or pine shavings, as these can be harmful to your hedgehog. The cost of bedding can range from $10 to $15.

Treats

Hedgehogs enjoy treats, and the cost of these can range from $5 to $10. Treats can be fruits or invertebrates like insects.

Toys

Hedgehog Toys
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Hedgehogs are curious animals and they like to explore their environment. You should provide them with toys such as tunnels, balls, and climbing structures. Toys can range from $5 to $10.

Environment/Housing Maintenance

The cage should be cleaned on a weekly basis, and the bedding should be changed as needed. You will also need to regularly check the water bottle and the food bowl to make sure they are clean and full.

The average cost for setting up their cage can range from $5 to $50.

Related: Pet Hedgehog Cage Setup

Monthly Average Hedgehog Cost

The average monthly cost of owning a hedgehog is around $70. This includes the cost of food, bedding, toys, and vet care.

ItemMonthly cost
Food$10-20
Vet & Medical cost$20-30
Water Bottle$5*
Food Bowl$5*
Bedding$10-15
Treats$5-10
Toys$5-10
Maintenance$5-50
Total$70-$140

* Does not need to be replaced every month.

Different Factors That Can Affect A Hedgehog’s Cost

Several factors that affect the cost of a hedgehog, including the type of hedgehog, the breeder, and the location. Do your research before purchasing a hedgehog to make sure it’s right for you.

Type of Hedgehog

Challenges When Keeping an African Pygmy Hedgehog as a Pet

The most common type of hedgehog kept as pets is the African Pygmy hedgehog.

The price difference depends on the coloration: rarer colors (such as black or albino hedgehogs) are more expensive than standard colors.

Breeder

The breeder you purchase your hedgehog from can also affect the cost. Some breeders charge more for their hedgehogs than others. 

Some breeders offer discounts if you purchase more than one hedgehog.

Location

The location where you purchase your hedgehog also affects the cost. 

In general, hedgehogs purchased from pet stores will cost more than those purchased from breeders. This is because pet stores typically have higher overhead costs.

Hedgehog Cost On A Budget

Maintaining a hedgehog can be costly, but there are ways to save on maintenance costs. 

Here are four tips.

1. Choose the Right Type of Food

Choose the Right Type of Food for Hedgehog
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Hedgehogs are omnivores, so they can eat both plants and animals[3]. Their diet should be mostly composed of animal protein. 

Look for high-quality, protein-rich foods that are specifically designed for hedgehogs. These will be more expensive than generic pet foods, but they’re worth the investment.

2. Purchase an Exercise Wheel

Purchase an Exercise Wheel for Hedgehog
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Hedgehogs need a lot of exercise, so consider getting them a wheel. 

Wheels can be expensive, but they’ll save you money in the long run by preventing obesity-related health problems.

3. Get your hedgehog vaccinated. 

Getting your hedgehog vaccinated will protect it from diseases and save you money on vet bills down the road.

4. Insurance

Purchasing insurance will help cover the costs of unexpected medical bills.

5. Build the Cage and Accessories Yourself

If you want to save money while purchasing necessities, building them yourself is a great alternative to buying them. 

Most people can build a hedgehog cage themselves, and the hideouts can easily be made up of a simple wooden structure.

Conclusion

Hedgehogs cost between $100 and $500, depending on the type and coloration. On top of that, you have to spend at least $400 on accessories and supplies, such as a cage, food, and bedding.

Some of these costs can be brought down by building them yourself, such as the cage and cage hideouts.

FAQs

How Much Do Baby Hedgehogs Cost?

The cost of a baby hedgehog can range from $80 to $160. This price will depend on the breeder, the location, and the availability of the hedgehog. Some breeders may charge more for a baby hedgehog if it is rarer or has unique markings.

How Much Is an Albino Hedgehog Cost?

An albino hedgehog typically costs between $250 and $350. This higher price is due to the fact that albino hedgehogs are less common than other colors of hedgehogs. Albino hedgehogs also require special care, as they are more sensitive to light and heat than other hedgehogs.

What Is the Cheapest Hedgehog?

The cheapest hedgehog is salt and pepper or cinnamon hedgehogs. These hedgehogs typically cost between $80 and $160. The price depends on the breeder, the location, and the availability of the hedgehog. Some breeders charge more for a baby hedgehog if it is rarer or has unique markings.

What Is the Average African Pygmy Hedgehog Price?

The average African pygmy hedgehog price is between $100 and $300. Pygmy hedgehogs are native to Africa and are one of the most popular pets in the United States. They are small, easily handled, and have a docile personality. Pygmy hedgehogs require a diet of specially-formulated food, fresh vegetables, and water. They also need a clean, safe, and comfortable environment.

Should You Get Several Hedgehogs On A Single Purchase?

Hedgehogs are solitary creatures and can live perfectly fine on their own. They prefer living alone, as they don’t have to share their living space with others. This is their natural behavior. They can live in groups if they’re brought up together, but it’s generally not recommended.

About Misfit Animals Staff

The Misfit Animals staff consists of animal lovers, pet enthusiasts, veterinarians, zoologists, and other animal experts. Our goal is to provide people with information on proper animal care.

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