DIY Hedgehog House for Your Prickly Pal

DIY Hedgehog Cage

Every hedgehog needs a proper living space to call its own. In this article, I will explain how to meet your pet’s needs by creating the perfect hedgehog home. I’ve also included my own personal account of tackling such a project, plenty of tips to point you in the right direction, and three DIY hedgehog-house models to choose from, depending on your skill level.

Three Models to Choose From

1. Beginner Model: A great first home for your pet
2. Intermediate Model: An aesthetically pleasing option
3. Expert Model: For those skilled in power tools

For those who want to go above and beyond, watch out for bonus projects!

Materials

After I bought my hedgehog, Erik, I made a list that included all the things needed to finish his house. Here are the basic materials you’ll need to get started:

1. Nest: A wooden nest with fleece inside and sawdust on the floor will mimic their natural nesting habitat and provide optimal warmth.
2. Blanket: UV cleaned sawdust makes for a perfect nest. Fur and synthetic grass make for a great variety in texture for your pet.
3. Feeding Equipment: Stainless steel water and food bowls are the easiest to keep clean.
4. wheels: Try to find a quiet one so you don’t stay awake at night. (I suggest the Silent Spinner Wheel or Comfort Exercise Wheel.)
5. Toys: Keep your pet entertained with plastic toys, tubes, and small noisy balls.
6. Potty: A circular plate with a different type of blanket will help them distinguish the potty from their nest.

These items are a MUST for any hedgehog home. Without these elements, your hedgehog can become stressed—causing mood swings, changes in toilet habits, and worse, tantrums.

It All Starts With A Sketch

The first thing you should do before building your hedgehog house is make a sketch so you don’t lose your work.

My original idea included a house with three levels and plenty of room for my hedgehog to roam. This basic plan left me a lot of room for improvement and creative changes along the way.

What Difficulty Level Do You Choose?

I’ll detail three different model plans—from beginner to expert level. Not all are super crafty, but with detailed descriptions and additional photos, you should be able to tackle at least one of them.

1. Beginner Model

A plan like this can be adapted to your hedgehog’s preferences along the way. If you’re the type who likes to improvise, this is a great model to follow.

Basic Structure

• A 30 x 12-inch hard plastic box

In the pictures above, you can see that this house is actually very simple to build. I already have the hard plastic box that is easy to use. I built a “fence” around the open area in case Erik’s curiosity led him to try to escape. (Fortunately, he doesn’t have a habit, but I’m leaving it there just in case.)

Good Air Flow and Easy Cleaning

This model is easy to use because you don’t have to worry about adding an air system. You also don’t have to disturb your hedgehog when cleaning his house or changing his food and water bowls.

Use Plastic

Although some tutorials suggest using a cardboard box to build a beginner’s house, I recommend using a plastic container because it is easy to clean with soap and water. You also don’t have to worry about your hedgehog biting the walls and running away in the middle of the night.

2. Intermediate Model

If you already have a wooden box or cage, this house should be fairly simple to build. This model is both stylish and of better quality.

Basic Structure

• A wooden box (not treated with harsh chemicals)

You can make a wooden box or buy one—whatever works best for you. If you choose to buy one, all you have to do is add toys, tires, blankets, and a nest.

Have Light

The structure of this house makes it necessary to install an artificial light. A hedgehog needs to be kept in an environment with a temperature of 75–80 degrees F, so if using a wooden box with a lid, they will need an additional light source.

Bonus Project: Get Comfortable

As seen in the example photo, adding a cozy igloo to your hedgehog house can really make it feel like home. Your pet will definitely appreciate a little handmade hideaway, and they’re pretty simple to make (if you know the basics of sewing). Follow the tutorial video above if you’re feeling crafty!

3. Expert Model

This house is based on my own design. I made it in a week, and all the materials were pretty cheap. I appreciate this house because I turned a basic sketch into a successful final product.

Note: I only recommend this project for those who have experience using heavy-duty tools.

Basic Structure

• A handmade mansion 10 x 30 x 50 inches

I treated the wood with a sealer and waterproofing liquid, making the wood strong enough to support a potty trained hedgehog.

Designated Floors

The bottom and middle levels can be used for blankets or a wooden nest (interchangeable). The upper level can be used for potty and exercise equipment, with easy-to-clean synthetic grass (replaced every six months).

Bonus Project: Build Your Own Wheel

If you think you’re up to a bigger challenge, try building your own hedgehog wheel! It is an inexpensive (but challenging) replacement for most commercial tires.

Check out the tutorial video below if you’re ready. If you are able to do the house at an expert level with ease, it shouldn’t take much time.

Now, Let Your Imagination Run Wild!

With the basics down, you can really let your imagination run wild. Follow a basic plan, but don’t be afraid to deviate from it to add some personal flair and points that your hedgehog will definitely like and appreciate.

Hedgehog Species Around the Globe

This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. It is not intended to replace diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals showing signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

Questions and Answers

Question: Is it safe for a female and male hedgehog to live together?

Answer: Yes, just be sure to give them enough space to survive and be careful with the breeding cycle after the second year.

Comments

Well on April 28, 2020:

I like you so much artivle! Keep them going!

David Zermeño (author) from Mexico on July 20, 2013:

Yes, a hedgehog can be a really cute pet, but beware there is another type of hedgehog called the “european hedgehog” and they are illegal to keep as pets, but you can feed and water, and then let them continue. Thanks for reading my articles.

Writer Fox from the wadi near the small river on July 20, 2013:

These animals are so cute! I often see them in my garden. I didn’t know they could be pets, though! Enjoy and vote.

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