Quick answer
African pygmy hedgehogs are insectivores, so the best treats are insects: mealworms, crickets, and dubia roaches, offered live, freeze dried, or canned. A tiny bit of cooked plain chicken or plain scrambled egg also works as an occasional treat. Because insects like mealworms are fatty, keep portions small and infrequent. Treats should sit on top of a proper staple diet, not replace it, and fresh water should always be available.
Why it matters
Treats do more than taste good. Hand feeding a mealworm or cricket is one of the fastest ways to build trust with a shy or newly adopted hedgehog, so treats are a genuine bonding tool. They also add enrichment and mimic the varied insect diet a hedgehog would forage in the wild. The catch is that hedgehogs gain weight easily, and an owner who leans on rich treats can quickly create an obese, unhealthy pet. Choosing the right treats and the right amount protects both the bond and the body.
What to look for
Prioritize single ingredient insect treats where the protein is high and the fat is moderate. Freeze dried mealworms, crickets, silkworms, and dubia roaches are all sound options, and rotating between them adds variety. Look for products with no added sugars, colors, or preservatives, and pick a piece size small enough that your hedgehog can chew it safely. Reputable exotic pet brands are worth the small premium because sourcing and handling reduce the risk of contamination.
How we chose
We focused on treats that fit an insectivore’s biology: insect first formulas and simple cooked proteins, rather than fruit blends or dried mixes marketed for looks. We favored widely available products from established exotic nutrition brands, checked that ingredient lists were short and honest, and considered format so there is an option for live feeders, freeze dried, and canned. We did not lab test these products or run feeding-data reviews; this is editorial guidance, and your exotics vet knows your individual animal best.
What to avoid
Skip fruit, nuts, seeds, dried fruit mixes, and dairy. Hedgehogs digest these poorly, and sugary or fatty items can trigger obesity, loose stools, and dental problems. Avoid anything seasoned, salted, or cooked with oil, garlic, or onion, and steer clear of chocolate and processed human snacks entirely. Do not let treats push out the staple diet, and if your hedgehog shows diarrhea, itching, or a sudden appetite change after a new treat, stop it and call an exotics vet.
