Can Hedgehogs Eat Celery? - Hedgehog Harmony

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A hedgehog cannot eat celery.

Celery has a high sodium content which may overwhelm a hedgehog’s digestive system and cause health problems. Typically hedgehogs are not supposed to be eating starchy foods, this may include potatoes, as well as celery.

The starch is unable to be digested by a hedgehog and therefore will lead them to digestive issues and potential illnesses.

One of these illnesses includes Gastrointestinal Disease, which is any type of ailment among the digestive system. Some symptoms may include:

Little to no movement due to cramps and/or pain.
Lack of the desire to eat.
May drink less water than normal.
Maybe unsteady on their feet with trouble walking.

These are all important signs to look for when trying to determine if your hedgehog has eaten celery and making sure they have not fallen ill.

If you believe these symptoms are present in your hedgehog it may be best to take them to the veterinarian to make sure they are ok and take any necessary precautions to make sure they are safe and healthy.

Dangers of feeding a hedgehog celery

Hedgehogs may not eat celery as they have a high sodium content and this may upset the balance in a hedgehog’s digestive system.

Some dangers of feeding your hedgehog celery includes:

Celery is very stringy which has the potential to become a choking hazard.
Large chunks of celery may also be a choking hazard.
High sodium may lead to serious health problems, commonly inside the digestive tract.

Safe vegetable/fruit alternatives to celery

Although celery is not an ideal treat or food for a hedgehog to eat there are many other fruits and vegetables that are safe and healthy alternatives.

These alternatives may not only be delicious but also provide several health benefits.

Important note: Dried fruits should be avoided when feeding hedgehogs. This is because they are stored with preservatives that may have chemicals or ingredients that could harm a hedgehog’s digestive system.

Fruits/vegetables safe for Hedgehogs	Health benefits
Fresh tomatoes	Source of Vitamin C, K and Potassium. May also contain antioxidants.
Fresh green beans	Contain iron, Vitamins B6, K, and A
Cooked squash (any variety)	High in fiber, contains Vitamin A and Beta Carotene
Apple	Soluble in fiber, linked to lower risk of major health issues.
Strawberries	Antioxidants, high in water fiber, contains Vitamin C.
Arugula	Contains Vitamin B, A, and K, along with Potassium, and promotes strong bones.
Spinach	Helps promote eye sight, packed with vitamins and minerals.

Hedgehog Treat Ideas and Recipes

Hedgehogs love treats with their amazing taste and healthy ingredients. It’s even more fun when making them yourself!

Below is a list of great recipes containing fruits and vegetables that are safe and healthy for your hedgehog to eat!

Special note: Please be sure to wash all fruits and vegetables before preparing them for your hedgehog to eat. They may contain pesticides and/or parasites that may harm them. Simply do this by running your produce thoroughly through water and then patting dry. Enjoy!

Vitamin packed bliss:

3 strawberries
½ apple
choice of protein (mealworm, cooked ground beef, cooked chicken)
½ tsp honey
½ cup spinach

Put in a blender for a puree texture. Pour into an ice tray for a frozen fun and healthy treat! (feed in small chunks to avoid choking)

Fruit packed surprise:

2 small cherry red tomatoes
¼ cup of a mixed berries
½ banana
2 ripe cherries

Blend ingredients until a puree formed texture is created and then put into an ice tray to freeze. When frozen, feed in small chunks to avoid choking and let your furry friend enjoy their treat!

Protein treat:

Choice of protein (amount varies by how many treats are wanted) (protein includes, mealworm, cooked chicken and/or cooked beef)
½ hard boiled egg
1 tsp honey
Finely chopped choice of fruit/vegetable (optional)(amount is varied on how many treats are wanted)

Mix ingredients together thoroughly so everything is well combined. Roll into balls and make sure meat is fully cooked and not raw.

When rolled into balls these may be fed directly to your hedgehog in small chunks, to avoid choking.

Honey is safe for hedgehogs in small quantities. It is a great way to bind other ingredients when making treats for your hedgehog. Just remember that moderation is key.

Special note: This information is not a suitable replacement for medical advice. If you feel as if your hedgehog is in pain or showing any abnormal symptoms, it is important to take them to a veterinarian right away to prevent any potential illness or disease and get them the best care for their best life.