Guide to Caring for Your Cute Pet Hedgehog (+Cute Hedgehog Pictures) | Articles | Happy Tail | Gan Jing World - Technology for Humanity

Oct 8, 2023

7 mins read

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7 mins read

Hedgehogs are adorable and unique creatures that have gained popularity as pets in recent years. Their endearing appearance, characterized by their tiny size, prickly spines, and inquisitive personalities, makes them a sought-after companion for animal lovers around the world. If you're considering welcoming one of these delightful creatures into your home, or if you're already a proud hedgehog owner, this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about caring for your cute pet hedgehog.

Introduction to Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs belong to the family Erinaceidae and are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. They are typically nocturnal, active at night and sleeping during the day. They have a keen sense of smell and hearing, and use their long snouts to explore their surroundings. Hedgehogs are omnivorous, eating a variety of insects, worms, fruits, vegetables, and sometimes meat. They can also eat specially formulated hedgehog food that provides them with balanced nutrition.

The Appeal of Hedgehogs as Pets

Hedgehogs have several unique features that make them appealing as pets. They can curl up into a ball when they feel threatened, exposing their sharp quills to deter predators. They can also make various sounds, such as snuffling, squeaking, hissing, and even purring. Some hedgehogs enjoy being handled and petted by their owners, while others may be shy or nervous.

Choosing the Right Hedgehog

When selecting a hedgehog as a pet, it's essential to find a reputable breeder or rescue organization. Hedgehogs may carry parasites or diseases that can affect humans or other animals, such as salmonella or ringworm. Ensure that the hedgehog you choose is healthy, alert, and free from any visible signs of illness.

Housing Your Hedgehog

Hedgehogs are relatively low-maintenance pets when it comes to housing. A spacious cage with proper ventilation and secure locks is crucial. Provide a hiding spot for your hedgehog to retreat to when they need privacy, as they are nocturnal animals.

Feeding Your Hedgehog

A well-balanced diet is vital for the health and well-being of your pet hedgehog. Their primary food source is high-quality hedgehog kibble, which is specifically formulated to meet their nutritional needs. Additionally, you can supplement their diet with small amounts of fruits, vegetables, and live insects.

Fresh Water

Always ensure that your hedgehog has access to fresh, clean water. Use a shallow, stable dish that won't tip over easily, as hedgehogs tend to be curious and might knock it over.

Hedgehog Health and Care

Hedgehogs should visit the vet annually, just like any other pet, to identify any potential health problems in the early stages. Hedgehogs can develop a range of cancerous and cardiac diseases, so you should be aware of that. Hedgehogs can still live healthy, long lives with annual veterinary visits and early detection.

Grooming

Hedgehogs are relatively clean animals, but they do require occasional baths. Use lukewarm water and a mild, unscented shampoo to clean their quills and skin. Be gentle and patient during this process to avoid stressing your pet.

Temperature Regulation

Maintaining the correct temperature in your hedgehog's environment is crucial. Hedgehogs are sensitive to temperature changes and should be kept in a warm room, ideally between 73-80°F (23-27°C), as they can suffer from heat stress or hibernation if it is too hot or cold.

Exercise and Playtime

Hedgehogs need exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Provide them with a safe space to explore and play outside of their cage daily. Ensure there are no hazards, and supervise their playtime.

Bonding with Your Hedgehog

Building a strong bond with your hedgehog requires patience and time. Handle your pet regularly, using slow, gentle movements. Over time, they will become more comfortable with you, and you'll form a close relationship.

Common Hedgehog Behaviors

Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals, meaning they are most active at night. Be prepared for their nighttime antics, which may include running on their exercise wheel and exploring their surroundings.

Hedgehogs also exhibit a curious behavior known as self-anointing. They may lick or chew on new scents, such as soap or lotion, and then spread the frothy saliva on their quills. This behavior is entirely normal and not a cause for concern.

Conclusion: The Joy of Having a Cute Pet Hedgehog

Caring for a cute pet hedgehog can be a rewarding experience filled with love and companionship. Remember to provide them with a suitable environment, a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and plenty of love and attention. By following these guidelines, you'll ensure that your hedgehog thrives and remains a happy addition to your family.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will they get along with other pets?

Despite the fact that hedgehogs like to live alone, it is not a good idea to lock your pet hedgehog in a cage and leave it there. They can climb, swim, and frequently run several miles each night (typical hedgehog business hours), and they are very active in the wild. Contact with your other pets should be kept to a minimum because hedgehogs need to have time to rush around.

Do hedgehogs carry diseases?

Hedgehogs have a five to eight-year lifespan on average as pets, although they are susceptible to certain diseases, just like dogs and cats are to rabies and distemper. Hedgehogs are prohibited in some regions because they have the ability to carry and spread diseases like foot and mouth, salmonella, ringworm, and other microorganisms and viral infections.

Avoid kissing your pet hedgehog, and definitely wash your hands after petting it, just to be cautious.

Do hedgehogs bite?

Hedgehogs can have up to 44 teeth, however they rarely bite. Hedgehogs will roll into a spiky ball if they are scared or startled rather than bite someone. When the occasional bite does happen, it's typically because the animal is incredibly annoyed or startled.

Are hedgehog spines dangerous?

It should come as no surprise that hedgehogs have numerous spines, but since they don't completely cover their bodies and aren't usually in positions that might cause pokes, hedgehogs are occasionally safe to handle. Although a hedgehog's spines are extremely sharp, they will lay flat against the body when it is at ease. Therefore, the spines won't poke you if you don't pet them backwards.

Which types of hedgehogs make good pets?

The African Pygmy Hedgehog is the most common variety of hedgehog kept as a pet. The African Pygmy Hedgehog is also referred to as a white-bellied or four-toed hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris). This breed of hedgehog normally weighs between ½ to 1-¼ lbs. and will measure approximately 5 to 8 inches.

Other common types of domesticated hedgehogs include: