Do Hedgehogs Make Good Pets?

Personality and Intelligence Our best comparison of hedgehog intelligence is to that of a hamster. Hedgehogs do not typically come when called or actively seek out human interaction. Hedgehogs may learn certain behaviors through positive reinforcement or conditioning but only at a very basic level. We strongly believe that hedgehog personality is shaped and molded through owner interaction. Proper handling and consideration of the hedgehog’s needs is critical to successful socialization and bonding as well as enjoyable pet ownership for both you and your pet. It is common for people to notice a personality “change” in their hedgehog once it reaches its new home. This is generally due to the stressors of changing its environment and having a new person take care of it. You will need to be patient, and keep working with your new pet. Positive Aspects of Hedgehog Ownership The typical pet hedgehog weighs between 6 ounces and 2 pounds and requires approximately the same amount of space as a guinea pig. Hedgehogs don’t bark or squawk and won’t disturb their neighbors. You might hear your hedgehog running on a squeaky wheel or rearranging its cage furniture, but for the most part, hedgehogs are very quiet pets. Most hedgehogs only require weekly cage cleaning but some hedgehogs are messier and may require spot cleaning throughout the week. A healthy hedgehog on a good diet does not have a distinct body odor like a ferret or male mouse. Hedgehogs do not have dander like cats, dogs, or other animals, so they are a better pet option for people who have allergies. Hedgehogs are NOT rodents, and they do not have a propensity to chew, gnaw on, or destroy their surroundings. Hedgies do not require routine shots, vaccinations, or veterinary testing but annual vet-checks are highly recommended. Hedgehogs are not aggressive by nature. Their spines are used as defense only when they are scared, nervous, or feel they have reason to protect themselves. People that are looking for an exotic pet are attracted to hedgehogs because of their uniqueness, but hedgehogs have the advantage that they have been captive bred for many generations. Hedgehogs are cute, curious and they can be cuddly! Potential Negative Aspects of Owning a Hedgehog Hedgehogs are prickly!! Your hedgehog will poke you. When you first begin learning to handle your hedgehog it may seem as if you are handling a critter cactus. The average hedgehog is naturally shy, nervous, and does not come when called, display outward affection, or perform tricks (even though there are some exceptions). They are nocturnal in nature and may appear to do nothing except “stay balled up all day.” Pet hedgies do best if handled every day, and they make take a long time to become accustomed to their new owners and environment. You may need to work through the grouchy quilling stage, and a grouchy hedgehog may always be grouchy. Hedgehogs do have teeth and have the potential to bite. Biting is typically not done out of aggression but as a way of communication. Proper understanding of hedgehog behavior will help decrease the risk and/or frequency of biting. Only females can safely cohabitate. Veterinary visits for a sick pet may be quite costly, and most hedgehogs will need at least one mite treatment during its lifetime. Hedgies cannot be left alone during the weekend. Hedgehogs do best in 70˚- 80˚ F temperature ranges. We have found the optimal temperature for our herd is 75˚. You must be prepared to provide additional heat sources if your house is maintained at cooler temperatures in the winter. Hedgehogs may have unpleasant eliminative or self-anointing habits. Some states, counties, and towns have exotic animal ownership restrictions. Hedgehogs are considered exotic animals and may fall under the bans.