How Much Do Hedgehogs Cost at PetSmart (2023 Update)

Hedgehogs are cute, spiky little balls, and it’s not very surprising that people would want them as pets. You might be wondering how much getting one from your local PetSmart will set you back, and unfortunately, hedgehogs aren’t something you can get from PetSmart, online or in-store.

If you’ve got your heart set on owning a hedgehog, there are other ways to find one. Read on to find out where you can purchase one of the little urchins, and how much one will cost.

Why Does PetSmart Not Sell Hedgehogs?

Hedgehogs aren’t your typical pet, but they are a popular “pocket pet,” so why would PetSmart not make them available? In some states like California, Georgia, Hawaii, and Pennsylvania, hedgehogs are banned.

You can purchase accessories and supplies from PetSmart to help you prepare for your new hedgehog pet. Food, bedding, hay, and habitats are available both online and in-store, making life a little easier once you have the initial sourcing of the hedgehog out of the way.

How Much Do Hedgehogs Cost?

Regarding the cost of a hedgehog, the price differs depending on whether you get one from a pet store or a breeder and what color they are.

Adoption

You can expect anything from $50-$100+ which seems like a big price discrepancy, but costs can vary depending on how much money was put into the hedgehog to care for it before its adoption. You will also need to be careful; some breeders call the purchase of a hedgehog an “adoption,” which is misleading because people believe they’re rescuing their pet instead of getting it from a for-profit breeder.

Breeder

You can purchase a hedgehog for as low as $100, but that is a rare exception, and usually reserved for a hedgehog that can’t be bred or has a disability. You’re likely looking at $200 for a hedgehog, which climbs to $300 for a more desirable color.

As always, we advise that you do your research and find a certified breeder. If you’re unsure where to start, you can ask your local exotic pet veterinarian for advice and referrals. Or you can also find the information you’re looking for online from reviews.

Typically, the prices for different colors are as follows:

Something to Think About When Buying a Hedgehog

Stores like Petco and PetSmart don’t sell hedgehogs, and you’ll find that smaller chains buy their hedgehogs from local breeders. You can also get hedgehogs from exotic pet stores, which will also have extra knowledge they’ll be able to share with you about the care of your hedgie.

Getting your hedgehog will be cheaper from a store, although it’s not always the safest route. When purchasing a hedgehog, there are three main factors to keep in mind:

• Signs of illness: Look out for a hedgehog that is slow or lethargic. If it has a runny nose and eyes, it’s a bad sign.
• Shiny, soft fur: Hedgehogs all have soft belly fur that should be well maintained and clean. They have not been well looked after if they are smelly and dirty.
• Healthy feet: If the hedgie has sore-covered feet, it’s a sign they’ve been raised in a dirty and damp cage, which has given their feet something called bumblefoot. You can still purchase a hedgehog with sore feet, but you will need to spend extra money on foot balms.

Additional Costs To Anticipate

Like with any pet, the initial cost of the animal is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the total cost.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Hedgehogs?

Hedgehogs have a lifespan of around 4 to 7 years, and it needs the same commitment as any other pets, including their vet care. To insure a hedgehog, you’ll pay between $80-$100 per year. However, most insurance companies only cover cats and dogs.

Conclusion

Even though PetSmart does not sell hedgehogs, it can still be on your list to visit to get stocked up on everything you’ll need to care for your spiky little friend. The most important thing when purchasing any pet is to look for a reputable source to ensure your hedgehog has a happy, healthy life with you in its new forever home.

Featured Image Courtesy: Pixabay