For many kids around the age of 11, the idea of having a pet becomes increasingly appealing. Among the myriad of furry, scaled, and feathered companions, the hedgehog often piques curiosity. With their unique quills and adorable snouts, hedgehogs seem like fascinating pets. But Are Hedgehogs Good Pets For 11 Year Olds? This is a common question parents ask as their children express interest in these spiky creatures. Having personal experience with a child and a pet hedgehog, I can offer some insights to help you decide if a hedgehog is the right pet for your 11-year-old.
My own daughter became captivated by hedgehogs through library books and nature documentaries. For a while, owning a hedgehog wasn’t even an option in our state due to local regulations. While pet hedgehogs are legal in most of Canada and the United States, it wasn’t until late 2015 that Arizona joined the states where hedgehogs are permitted as pets. As soon as it became legal, our daughter was ready to use her savings to get a baby hedgehog. Now, over two years later, her bond with Skittles, her hedgehog, is undeniable, and her enthusiasm hasn’t waned. The most frequent question we encounter is, “Are hedgehogs good pets for kids?” This article aims to explore that question specifically for 11-year-olds, providing information to help you make an informed decision, not just a purchasing guide.
Much of the information shared here comes from my daughter’s own experiences and observations. She even wrote an essay for school titled “What It’s Like to Have a Pet Hedgehog,” offering a genuine child’s perspective. Initially, when Skittles joined our family, we closely supervised all interactions and care responsibilities. However, as Skittles became a part of our lives, our daughter gradually took over full responsibility for her pet hedgehog.
Before moving forward, it’s crucial to verify the legality of hedgehog ownership in your specific location. Regulations can vary, so checking local laws is a necessary first step.
Understanding the Costs of Hedgehog Ownership
The most common type of hedgehog kept as a pet is the African Pygmy Hedgehog. The price of a hedgehog can differ based on location and breeder. Generally, hedgehogs are relatively affordable pets to maintain. Similar to getting a hamster, the primary expenses are upfront costs for the hedgehog and its habitat. Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for a hedgehog itself. Ongoing costs include food and bedding. Veterinary expenses are usually minimal unless your hedgehog requires specific medical attention.
Housing for hedgehogs can range from simple to elaborate. Many owners use large plastic tubs as enclosures, which is what we initially used for Skittles. Later, we upgraded to a multi-level wire cage. It’s important to avoid cages with wire bottoms, as hedgehogs prefer warm environments and solid surfaces.
Essential Hedgehog Supplies Checklist
Setting up the right environment is key to a happy hedgehog. Here’s a list of essential supplies:
- Ventilated Cage: Adequate space and airflow are crucial.
- Cage Liner: Fleece liners are a popular, soft, and washable option.
- Sleeping Area: Hedgehogs need a dark, cozy space to sleep, like a small house or igloo.
- Bedding Material: While wood or paper shavings are often recommended, our hedgehog thrives with fleece bedding.
- Plastic Running Wheel: Exercise is vital for hedgehogs, and a solid, plastic wheel is safer than wire ones.
- Food and Water Dishes: Shallow dishes are best.
- High-Quality Hedgehog or Cat Food: Proper nutrition is essential.
- Treats: Mealworms or other insect treats can be given in moderation.
Daily Care: What 11 Year Olds Need to Know
Hedgehogs are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. Building a bond with your hedgehog requires consistent interaction, especially in the evenings. My daughter’s hedgehog is very affectionate with her but can be more reserved with others. It’s important to be aware that hedgehog quills, while not poisonous or barbed, are sharp. When a hedgehog is relaxed, the quills lie relatively flat, but when startled or uncomfortable, they become erect and pointed.
Feeding and Hydration for a Healthy Hedgehog
A hedgehog’s primary diet should consist of high-quality cat food. They also enjoy treats like mealworms. Hedgehogs are prone to obesity, so portion control and exercise are crucial. A small bowl of food should be available daily, along with a constant supply of fresh water, ideally from a sipper bottle.
Exercise is Key for Active Hedgehogs
Being nocturnal, hedgehogs are most active during the night. They require a running wheel to get adequate exercise. Skittles uses her wheel extensively every night, which means daily wheel cleaning is necessary. Having two wheels allows for easy rotation during cleaning.
Maintaining a Clean Hedgehog Environment
Hedgehogs can be messy pets, and regular cage cleaning is essential. Daily spot cleaning and weekly deep cleans are recommended. It’s also important to remember that hedgehogs can carry salmonella. Therefore, handwashing after handling your hedgehog or cleaning its cage is vital for hygiene and health. Keeping a clean cage benefits both the hedgehog and its owner.
Interaction and Temperament of Hedgehogs
In the wild, hedgehogs are solitary animals and don’t require companions in captivity. Each hedgehog has its own unique personality. While they are not typically biters, their sharp quills can be a concern, especially for younger children. A quill prick isn’t seriously harmful but can be startling and slightly painful. My daughter was seven when she got Skittles, and we haven’t encountered any issues related to quills. For an 11 year old, understanding how to handle a hedgehog gently and respectfully is definitely achievable.
Hedgehog Lifespan and the Rewards of Ownership
The average lifespan of an African Pygmy Hedgehog is between 2 to 6 years, with some living up to 8 years. When choosing any pet, it’s important to consider the value they bring to your family. With a child pet owner, parental involvement is always necessary, especially initially. Parents should be prepared to be pet owners alongside their child.
However, the rewards of hedgehog ownership can be significant:
- Hedgehogs are playful and can be trained to learn simple behaviors.
- Once tamed, they enjoy being held and interacted with.
- They can be wonderful companions and boost self-esteem.
- Caring for a hedgehog teaches responsibility.
Pros and Cons: Are Hedgehogs a Good Fit for an 11 Year Old?
When considering a pet for an 11 year old, weighing the pros and cons is essential.
Pros of Hedgehogs as Pets for 11 Year Olds:
- Hedgehogs can become tame, affectionate, and social with consistent handling.
- They are entertaining to watch and have playful personalities.
- Hedgehogs are relatively low-maintenance compared to some pets, yet still rewarding.
- The cost of ownership is reasonably affordable.
- Caring for a hedgehog teaches responsibility to children.
- They don’t require a lot of space, suitable for smaller homes or bedrooms.
- Being nocturnal, they can be active companions for children in the evening.
Cons to Consider:
- Hedgehogs have sharp quills, which can be prickly, especially for new owners.
- They need daily interaction to remain comfortable with their owners.
- Hedgehogs can carry diseases like salmonella, requiring good hygiene practices.
- They are sensitive to temperature extremes and need a consistently warm environment.
So, are hedgehogs good pets for 11 year olds? Based on our experience, the answer leans towards yes. Eleven-year-olds are generally mature enough to understand the responsibilities of pet ownership, handle a hedgehog gently, and learn about their unique needs. However, remember that every child and every hedgehog is different. The best way to determine if a hedgehog is the right pet for your 11 year old is to do thorough research, consider your child’s personality and responsibility level, and perhaps even meet a hedgehog in person before making a decision.
If you’re ready to take the next step, you can find helpful tips for buying a pet hedgehog. You can also follow my daughter’s hedgehog, Skittles, and their adventures together on Instagram.
And if you are also considering other small pets, you might want to read about whether hamsters make good pets for kids as well!
