Hedgehog food: Nourishing food for prickly garden visitors in autumn

Hedgehog food: Support for garden hedgehogs

In autumn hedgehogs are out searching for food so they can build up a layer of fat for hibernation. In tidy gardens they often cannot find enough insects and worms. With suitable hedgehog food you can help them in a targeted way. Leimüller offers a protein rich premium hedgehog food without grain and the trusted Classic, both tailored to the needs of these small insect eaters.

What hedgehogs really need

In the wild, hedgehogs mainly eat beetles, larvae and worms. Good food is therefore rich in animal protein and low in carbohydrates. Leimüller premium hedgehog food contains no grain at all and is especially suitable for hedgehogs that still need to put on weight. The Classic is a proven alternative for extra feeding in the garden. Never offer milk, fruit or seasoned leftovers, as these can harm hedgehogs. A shallow dish of fresh water should always be on hand.

Setting up a feeding station in the garden

Put the food out in the evening in a sheltered place, for example under a hedge or in a feeding house with a small entrance. That makes it harder for cats and birds to get at the food. Clean the dishes every day so no germs build up. Extra feeding is mainly needed in autumn, while hedgehogs are still active. If a hedgehog is out during the day, very small, thin or injured, contact a hedgehog rescue or a vet, as these animals need expert care.

Frequently asked questions

When should I feed hedgehogs in the garden?
Extra feeding is most useful in autumn, when hedgehogs are building up reserves for winter. In summer they usually find enough food in a wildlife friendly garden. Feed in the evening and remove any leftovers the next morning.

Can I give hedgehogs cat food?
Many people reach for cat food in a pinch, but it is not designed for hedgehogs. Dedicated hedgehog food contains more animal protein and suits their digestion better. Never give hedgehogs milk, as it can give them diarrhoea.

How do I keep cats away from the hedgehog food?
A feeding house with an entrance of around ten centimetres lets hedgehogs in but keeps most cats out. A heavy stone on the roof stops it from being knocked over. Place the house somewhere quiet without much through traffic.