Can hedgehogs eat cheese?
Quick Answer
No
Cheese is not recommended for hedgehogs. It is high in fat and can lead to obesity and other health issues. Additionally, many hedgehogs are lactose intolerant, which can cause digestive problems.
What Is It?
Cheese is a dairy product, derived from milk and produced in wide ranges of flavors, textures and forms. It contains high levels of fat and lactose.
Why It Can Be Risky
Feeding cheese to hedgehogs can pose several risks:
- Obesity: Cheese is high in fat, which can lead to weight gain and obesity in hedgehogs.
- Digestive problems: Many hedgehogs are lactose intolerant, and consuming cheese can cause diarrhea, bloating and other digestive issues.
- Nutritional imbalance: Cheese does not provide the necessary nutrients that hedgehogs need for a balanced diet.
Safe Alternatives
- Insects: Hedgehogs are insectivores and their diet should primarily consist of insects.
- Fruits and vegetables: Small amounts of fruits and vegetables can also be included in their diet.
- Specialized hedgehog food: There are commercial foods available that are specially formulated for hedgehogs.