Everything You Need to Know About Keeping Hedgehogs as Pets
Do Hedgehogs Make Good Pets?
– Yes, hedgehogs can make good pets but only for those that don’t require a super cuddly caged pet, are okay with feeding some insects, and don’t mind if their pet sleeps during the day and runs all night on its wheel. Hedgehogs are very quiet, don’t take up much space, and are pretty low-maintenance pets, which makes them a good pet for many people.
Do Hedgehogs Like To Live Alone?
– When you decide to have a pet hedgehog, you don’t have to have two or three pet hedgehogs to ensure their happiness. One hedgehog only needs an enclosure that is 2 feet by 4 feet, but bigger homes are also appreciated by these spikey critters since they roam for hours in the wild and like to exercise.
Are Hedgehogs Very Active?
– Hedgehogs may not look like very athletic animals, but they are extremely active. In the wild, hedgehogs travel about two miles a day, so they are definitely not sedentary animals. Pet hedgehogs need a lot of exercise not only for their mental health but also for their physical health. Hedgehogs that don’t get an appropriate amount of exercise each day are likely to become obese, so plenty of playtime outside the cage as well as an exercise wheel inside the cage are often necessary.
Are Hedgehogs Awake During the Day?
– Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals, so they are more active at night than during the day. Your hedgehog will spend most of the day sleeping, so if you want to spend time with them, the evening hours are when they will be awake to eat and exercise. This might not be ideal for someone with an early bedtime but could work for those with free time in the evening.
Do Hedgehogs Bite?
– While hedgehogs can have up to , they do not typically bite. If a hedgehog is frightened or scared, they will roll up into a spiny ball before they bite anyone. If the rare bite does occur, it is probably because they are extremely annoyed, in pain, or startled, but a hedgehog is unlikely to attack and attempt to bite anything.
Are Hedgehog Spines Dangerous?
– Hedgehogs have spines, but these tiny quills don’t cover their entire body and aren’t always in positions that cause pokes. Spines are very sharp but when a hedgehog is relaxed, these spines will lay flat against the body. This means that as long as you don’t pet the spines backward, they won’t poke you. There are also no spines on the belly of a hedgehog, making it even less prickly. Hedgehogs cannot shoot their spines like a porcupine shoots its quills, and the spines do not contain any type of poison or venom. The spines are actually hollow and filled with air and don’t even have barbs on the end of them.
You can find the full post here
Considering a Hedgehog as a Pet for Your Child? Here’s What You Need to Know
Is Owning a Hedgehog Legal in My Area?
– Hedgehog ownership laws can vary by location. Before purchasing or adopting a pet hedgehog, it’s crucial to check the legal regulations in your area regarding hedgehog ownership.
What Are the Costs Associated with Owning a Hedgehog?
– The African pygmy hedgehog, the most common domesticated hedgehog, typically costs between $150 and $300 to purchase. Additional costs include bedding, food, and cage setup. Veterinary care is usually not a significant expense unless your hedgehog needs special medical attention.
What Are the Care Requirements for a Pet Hedgehog?
– Hedgehogs are nocturnal pets and require bonding time with their owners. They have sharp quills that can be dangerous if they fall out. Hedgehogs eat cat food and should be given occasional mealworm treats, but overfeeding should be avoided to prevent obesity. They need exercise wheels, and their environment should be kept clean to prevent health issues.
Are Hedgehogs Suitable Pets for Children?
– Hedgehogs are solitary animals and do not require companionship. While they typically do not bite, their sharp quills can be a concern, especially for young children. It’s important to consider a child’s age and ability to handle the responsibilities of hedgehog care.
What Is the Life Expectancy of a Pet Hedgehog?
– The life expectancy of a pet African Pygmy hedgehog can range from two to six years, with some sources suggesting they can live up to eight years. It’s essential to be aware of the potential commitment involved in caring for a hedgehog.
You can find the full post here
Considering a Hedgehog as a Pet? Here’s What You Need to Know
Why Might Hedgehogs Not Make Suitable Pets?
– Hedgehogs are generally shy animals and may not be suitable for young children who want a pet to play with often. Their quills, while not extremely sharp, can be uncomfortable to touch, especially for rambunctious children. Additionally, hedgehogs are nocturnal, which means they can be noisy at night. Cleaning their cage regularly is essential, and they have a relatively short lifespan compared to other pets.
What Are Some Health Risks Associated with Hedgehogs?
– Hedgehogs have a few health risks, some of which can affect humans. It’s important to understand these risks and take necessary precautions if you decide to have a hedgehog as a pet.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Hedgehog as a Pet?
– Hedgehogs are nocturnal, making them a suitable option for individuals who work during the day. They are generally low-maintenance pets, requiring only a few hours of care each week. Despite the risk of obesity, most hedgehogs do not develop serious health issues.
Do Hedgehogs Make Good Pets for Families?
– Whether or not hedgehogs make good pets for your family depends on various factors. They can be good pets for some individuals and families, but it’s essential to consider their unique characteristics and care requirements before making a decision.
How Can I Learn More About Hedgehog Care?
– If you’re still unsure about keeping a hedgehog as a pet, you can explore the website further to gather more information about hedgehog care. Additionally, you can reach out to the website’s administrators for questions and advice.
You can find the full post here
