Can hedgehogs eat chocolate?
Quick Answer
No
Chocolate is toxic to hedgehogs and can cause serious health problems.
How to Tell
If a hedgehog has consumed chocolate, signs to look out for include vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, panting, restlessness, and seizures.
Why It Can Be Risky
Feeding chocolate to hedgehogs can lead to several health risks.
- Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance that hedgehogs cannot metabolize effectively, leading to theobromine poisoning.
- Symptoms of theobromine poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and seizures.
- In severe cases, it can be fatal.
Safe Alternatives
Safe alternatives to chocolate for hedgehogs include fruits like apples and pears, vegetables like carrots and broccoli, and insects like mealworms and crickets.