Would you like to learn more about hedgehog pets’ sand baths?
As hedgehog pet owners, we already know that bathing your hedgehog is not a daily practice since it is a huge event for your hedgehog pet, as I discovered when my pet received his first bath. I was conversing with my physician, who informed me that there were other options, that’s how I learned about sand baths. I’d like to share with you and invite you to read my post on Hedgehog Care And Maintenance, which will teach you how to properly care for your pet.
Here we go,
Can Hedgehog Pets Bathe In Sand
Bathing in the sand is a natural activity for hedgehogs in the wild, and it has the benefit of helping to keep the oil in hedgehog skin and preventing dry skin, which is not the case with water baths given to hedgehog pets at home.
So, yes, hedgehog pets may bathe in the sand exactly like wild hedgehogs, and it is also highly good for them. If your pet has dry skin, I recommend reading my post on Hedgehog Pet With Dry Skin, which explains how to care for your pet’s skin. However, not all sands are suitable for bathing your pet. Make certain that the sand used is devoid of any chemicals or other items that might hurt your pet. Although it may be tempting to pour sand on your hedgehog pet during sand bathing, it is best to let your pet properly express itself because pouring sand on it can change its natural behavior, which can be distressing to them.
Which Sand Is Hedgehog-Friendly
As it is a good idea to bathe your hedgehog pet in the sand, not all sand is healthy for your pet. The most important factor to consider while selecting sand is its size. Chinchilla sand would have been a good option, but it is not the best option because it frequently contains tiny sand particles that are quite hazardous to your pet. The particle can be inhaled by your pet, causing serious respiratory issues and, if you have a female hedgehog pet, it tends to have urinary tract infections.
The ideal sand for your hedgehog pet is playground sand, because there are no microscopic particles, but sand with huge grains that will not be readily inhaled or enter the orifice of the genitals.
Reptile sand is also an excellent choice because it does not produce dust like chinchilla sand/dust. I once used a reptile sand bath for my hedgehog pet and I almost used it for a year with no problems.
How Frequently Should Your Hedgehog Take A Sand Bath
Sand baths may be given to hedgehog pets daily, but you can choose your timetable. Giving your hedgehog 2 to 3 times a week is also okay. Hedgehogs can take sand baths as frequently as they like, unlike water baths, which can only be taken once a month.
Bathing your hedgehog pet in the sand may be pretty messy, so make sure you check and watch your friend to avoid any sand being consumed and to free it from any sand that may become lodged in its quills.
A sandbox is an excellent method to prevent the mess generated by a sand bath. Remember to replace the sand regularly to keep dirt at bay. Sandboxes are beneficial because they allow your pet to have fun by digging and searching for treats in the sand.
Do Hedgehogs Pets Need Dust Baths
Dust and sand baths can mean the same to some people, but they are different. Sand bath is completely safe and healthy for your pet, a dust bath is not and the main reason that it is not good for your pet to have a dust bath is the size of the particle, as previously stated, sand baths have large particles, whereas dust has smaller tiny particles, which can cause serious respiratory issues because the dust can be inhaled and can also enter the genital areas of your hedgehog, causing pain and discomfort to your pet, which you do not want.
5 Significant Advantages Of Sand Baths For Hedgehog Pets
Sand baths are a favorite kind of enrichment for hedgehogs. 5 advantages I’ve noticed are:
• Sand gets on the wheel from its sandy feet, and the wheel becomes a Lot cleaner as a result. Usually, a brief wipe is all that is required once the excrement has fallen to the pee pad below.
• Second, it does not receive poop boots. Burrowing into the sand and rolling in it cleans your hedgehog feet.
• Nail clipping is not regular because the sand functions as an emery board.
For the best nails to have your pet nails groomed, kindly read my post on Hedgehog Pet Nail Clipping
• Sand baths assist hedgehogs clean their quills, minimizing moisture build-up, and absorbing oils and grease. Their quills would turn dull if they did not have this.
• Finally, regular sand bathing allows your hedgehog pet to engage in natural things it does in the wild, which contributes to their pleasure through important mental enrichment.
Step-By-Step Sand Bathing For Your Hedgehog Pet
- Make sure the bath is on a sturdy, level surface since your hedgehog pet will want to roll around and express itself.
- Make sure the bath is in a calm and safe location since if your hedgehog is not at ease, it will be afraid to play and conduct its typical activities.
- As you fill the tray, carefully slip your hedgehog pet into the bath and observe them closely for 10 to 15 minutes.
- If any sand is soiled, make sure it is removed immediately
- Using a clean cloth, wipe down the bath and make it clean for the next time.
Conclusion
Giving your pet a sand bath is vital and beneficial since it makes your pet comfortable and allows you to appreciate the relationship you have together. Sand baths are not hazardous to your pet because they help to maintain your pet’s skin and prevent dry skin. Sand baths should be a natural part of a hedgehog’s life because they are also necessary for their hygiene. I recommend that you read my post on Hedgehog Pet Care Package which details the best ways to care for your hedgehog and Hedgehog Pet Wound Care which provides advice on wound treatment for your pet