In this piece, I’m going to talk about the topic of “Is A Hedgehog Easy To Take Care Of?,” and in terms of the information that I cover, I’m going to do my best to cover as much territory as I possibly can. I hope you find this discussion interesting!
Some of the benefits of caring for hedgehogs is they are small and pretty easy to take care of Unlike some animals, they have no dander to bother those with allergies. Hedgehogs are a ton of fun to play with, and once they are comfortable in their environment, they are quite friendly.
Hedgehog Need: What care does a hedgehog need
Hedgehogs need
environmental temperatures
between 70 and 80 degrees Keep your hedgehog’s cage away from drafts, direct sunlight, or cold areas. You may want to provide your hedgehog with a small warm spot in his cage where he can go to get warm but would also be able to get away from if he feels too warm.
Hedgehogs Low Maintenance: Are hedgehogs low maintenance
I’m happy to report, though, that hedgehogs ARE a low maintenance pet Expect to spend about fifteen minutes to a
half hour
per week cleaning your hedgehogs’ cage,
food bowl
, water bottle, wheel and other toys.
Do hedgehogs like to be handled?
Hedgehogs:
Even though hedgehogs are “pets” the may not automatically enjoy being petted You must first earn your hedgehog’s trust so that it can relax and enjoy your touch rather than fear your touch as potential harm. It is o.k. to begin to attempt to pet your hedgehog once your hedgehog is relaxed and exploring in your hands.
Are hedgehogs smelly?
Hedgehogs:
Hedgehogs don’t have any
scent glands
like ferrets, skunks, or even cats! So when we’re clean, we don’t have any particular scent. Like any animal, if they aren’t kept clean, they begin to smell funky Since domestic hedgehogs are caged animals, we walk through whatever is in our cage.
Hedgehogs Poop: Do
hedgehogs poop
a lot
hedgies poop
, a lot! And if your hedgehog has a wheel, as they run on their wheel, they’re going to end up running through their own poop, creating “poop boots.” Don’t despair though, Squeaky Clean is great for soaking and cleaning your wheel effectively but without using harsh or dangerous chemicals.
Do hedgehogs need a friend?
Hedgehogs:
A lot of people have asked if their hedgehog needs a companion. The short answer is no, they are solitary animals.
Do hedgehogs bite?
Hedgehogs:
However, you should try to use gloves when handling a hedgehog for your own health and safety. Hedgehogs can bite you, but very rarely will that happen This usually happens when they are young and think your fingers are going to feed them (if they have been fed via a syringe as they had no mother).
Why you shouldn’t get a hedgehog?
Hedgehog:
Some regions have banned the practice of keeping hedgehogs, as some carry the highly contagious foot-and-mouth disease They can also transmit salmonella bacteria as well as viral and fungal diseases, and their
sharp spines
can puncture skin and cause infections.
Are hedgehogs noisy at night?
Hedgehogs:
Grunting Like a Pig It’s the noise that hedgehogs make when they’re out and about, busy searching for food at night Though the noise can be surprisingly loud, a grunting, snuffling hog is perfectly happy and should be left to go about her business.
Can my hedgehog sleep with me?
Hedgehog:
You can hold a hedgehog close and let it snuggle into you without “petting” your hedgehog which may make it more nervous You may be able to pet an otherwise “unpettable” hedgie when your hedgehog falls asleep and relaxes. Some hedgehogs might not feel comfortable being exposed.
How long does it take to bond with a hedgehog?
Hedgehog:
Encourage the bonding process The first two weeks with your hedgehog are the most important in shaping your new companion’s personality and how they will react around you! Once home, you may notice a temporary personality change from when you picked out your hedgie, and this is completely normal.
How often should I play with my hedgehog?
Hedgehog:
Pet hedgehogs do best if handled every day, even if it is for just a short amount of time. We recommend handling your hedgehog for at least half an hour a day The easiest way to accomplish this task is 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes in the evening.
Pet Hedgehogs: How long do pet hedgehogs live
Dr. Keller says, “With appropriate care and keeping, your hedgehog will live about five years, and some even live longer than eight years”.
Do you bathe hedgehogs?
Hedgehogs:
Most hedgehogs will need a bath even less than once per month Hedgehogs become most dirty by stepping in their droppings, so to avoid extra baths, make sure to clean their cage regularly, around once a week or less if required.
Heat Lamp: Do hedgehogs need a heat lamp
Hedgehogs generally need to be kept warmer than room temperature. Therefore, they often need a heat lamp or some other device to keep them warm Because your pet will rely on this device to stay healthy, it is vital that you purchase the right product. If you don’t keep your hedgehog warm, they may try to hibernate.
Is it cruel to keep a hedgehog as a pet?
Hedgehog:
Hedgehogs can be a fun and low-maintenance pet for your household, but they do need some special care They have sharp quills that can make handling difficult. Consistent and proper daily handling will help them relax and feel comfortable with you.
How much do
hedgehogs cost
?
The average cost to buy a hedgehog can run between $100 to $300 The cost will depend on the age of the hedgehog, how friendly they are, and their coloring. The cheapest hedgehogs will be either salt and pepper or cinnamon and “pinto” hedgies will be in the mid-price range.
Should I get a hamster or a hedgehog?
Hedgehog:
Hedgehogs require more patience and care when handling the creatures, but they’re more exotic and entertaining than hamsters Hamsters are more suitable for young children, but older kids will appreciate the unique behavior and longer lifespan of the hedgehog.
Do hedgehogs like to cuddle?
Hedgehogs:
Some hedgehogs do seem to like to snuggle up to their human companions , while others might be shyer or simply prefer exploring and moving about over sitting still and cuddling.
Do hedgehogs get attached?
Hedgehogs:
Some hedgehogs will bond to their owners for life (HHC). Bonding does require effort, persistence, and an understanding of hedgehogs. Many hedgehogs don’t like to be petted by just anyone until they are completely comfortable with their environment. This is especially important when a hedgehog goes to a new home.
How often do hedgehogs need baths?
Hedgehogs:
Once a month bathing is adequate for the average hedgehog. Some hedgehogs need baths frequently and others seldom need one. Bathing generally helps to relieve dry skin; however, bathing too frequently may contribute to dry skin.
References
https://pets.webmd.com/how-to-take-care-of-a-hedgehog
https://hedgehogheadquarters.com/secure/handling.htm