Hedgehogs love treats and as a hedgehog owner, you’re probably always looking for new treats to keep your hedgehog both healthy and excited to see you.
Can Hedgehogs eat broccoli? Hedgehogs are able to eat leafy greens such as broccoli because they are packed with vitamins and minerals that help your hedgehog maintain health, strong bones, and an increase in health for their immune system.
Along with broccoli, hedgehogs may also enjoy eating other vegetables which include:
- Cucumber
- Lettuce
- Asparagus
- Bell pepper
All of these leafy vegetables will promote good health for your hedgehog and should be introduced to them in small amounts as to not overfeed them and still maintain a healthy and fun snack.
Health benefits of feeding broccoli to your hedgehog
Hedgehogs are creatures who love to explore new foods and treats. Broccoli is a great one that will even provide health benefits.
You can prepare broccoli for your hedgehog in different ways. Below are the different types of preparation for broccoli and the health benefits that may accompany them in small amounts.
Special note: Remember to feed your hedgehogs these treats in small amounts and pieces in order to avoid choking and prevent digestive issues!
| Prepared Broccoli | Health benefits |
| Steamed broccoli | Contains Vitamin K, C, Iron, and Potassium, along with fiber, which is great for the digestive system. |
| Raw broccoli | Boosts the immune system with vitamin C, provides anti-inflammatory properties and enhances antioxidants throughout the body. |
How to feed broccoli to your hedgehog?
Broccoli may come in many different forms and it can be difficult to determine which part of it to feed to your hedgehog.
It is important to introduce this new food to them in small amounts so they get used to it. This is also good to determine if they don’t like it or if it causes any adverse side effects.
Once it is determined that it is safe to eat and they enjoy it they can eat any part of the broccoli. The stems should be cut in very small chunks which will prevent choking and hard-to-digest pieces.
The tops, also known as the florets are also good to eat and should be fed in small chunks as well. This guideline should be followed whether it is raw or cooked.
Either way, this vegetable provides excellent health benefits but should be given in moderation so as to not overwhelm your hedgehog’s digestive system.
Fun broccoli treats for your hedgehog
Hedgehogs love to eat fruits and vegetables, plus they are healthy and nutritious for them! Below are some DIY recipes that are a perfect balance of nutrition and goodness that will make your hedgehog smile. Enjoy!
Special notes
- Dried fruits and vegetables should be avoided as they are often preserved with chemicals that may contain pesticides and unhealthy products that may cause illness for your hedgehog.
- This is the same for wild fruits and vegetables. There is a chance they contain harmful bugs and pesticides.
- It is important to feed and use only the freshest ingredients from the grocery stores that have been washed. Washing them requires running the product under cold water to make sure it’s clean and healthy for your hedgehog!
Green leaf delight
- 2 small-sized heads of broccoli (finely chopped)
- A small handful of spinach (finely chopped)
- Finely chopped pieces of asparagus (1-2 pieces)
- A small handful of arugula (finely chopped)
Once everything is finely chopped, mix into a bowl. After everything is combined, put in a small bowl and let your hedgehog feast.
Make sure this is a small bowl and a small number of greens so as to not overwhelm your hedgehog’s digestive system.
Broccoli surprise
- 3-4 small-sized head of broccoli (finely chopped)
- A small handful of romaine lettuce (finely chopped)
- Choice of protein (mealworm, cooked chicken, cooked ground beef) (amount depends on preference)
- Half of a green pepper (finely chopped)
Once everything is finely chopped, put in a blender with half a cup of water. This should create a puree-like texture. Once all combined and creamy, pour into ice cube trays and put them in the freezer until frozen.
When ready to serve cut into small chunks and let it thaw just enough so it can be safely fed to your hedgehog
Fruit delight
- ½ apple (finely chopped into chunks)
- ½ pear (finely chopped into chunks)
- ½ mango (finely chopped into chunks)
- ¼ banana (finely sliced into chunks)
Mix all ingredients into a bowl. Once thoroughly mixed, pour into a small bowl. Feed to your hedgehog for a fun and healthy fruit salad.
Be aware that this should be served in a very small amount, making sure the chunks are small enough to be safely eaten and digested.
Special note
This information is not a suitable replacement for medical advice. If you believe your hedgehog is displaying abnormal symptoms or is ill in any way it is important to take them to a veterinarian right away to get them the help and care they need to promote a long and healthy life!