M: Do hedgehogs need a chew toy
G: Hedgehogs don't need chew toys like some other animals, but they do benefit from enrichment items to keep them engaged. You can provide toys like small balls, tunnels, or treat-dispensing toys to stimulate them mentally and physically. Chewing isn't a natural behavior for hedgehogs, so chew toys aren't necessary.
M: Why do they chew on non food items? Yesterday one chewed on my earbud stem
G: Hedgehogs may chew on non-food items out of curiosity or to explore their environment, as they rely heavily on their senses of smell and taste. They also engage in a behavior called "self-anointing," where they find a new or interesting scent, chew or lick the object, and then spread the saliva on their bodies. This could explain why your hedgehog chewed on your earbud stem—it was likely intrigued by the scent or texture.