Are you wondering, “Can You Get Hedgehogs As Pets?” Absolutely! Hedgehogs can make wonderful companions, and PETS.EDU.VN is here to guide you through everything you need to know. However, responsible ownership is key to ensuring their well-being. Understanding their unique needs, from their nocturnal habits to their specialized diet, is crucial for providing them with a happy and healthy life. Discover all about hedgehog care, hedgehog behavior, and hedgehog health from the experts at PETS.EDU.VN, and become the best hedgehog parent possible!
1. Are Hedgehogs Good Pets? Understanding Their Unique Appeal
Hedgehogs can be excellent pets for the right owner, but it’s essential to understand their specific needs and behaviors before bringing one home.
Hedgehogs, particularly the African pygmy hedgehog, have gained popularity due to their relatively small size and unique appearance. However, potential owners should thoroughly research their personality and care requirements to determine if they align with their lifestyle. Hedgehogs are not as low-maintenance as some might think, and their nocturnal nature and specific dietary needs require commitment. According to research from the University of California, Davis, hedgehogs have specific environmental and nutritional needs that must be met to ensure their health and well-being.
1.1. Potential Health Concerns: Salmonella and Hedgehogs
Like reptiles and certain other pets, hedgehogs can carry Salmonella. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) investigated several cases of Salmonella linked to pet hedgehogs in 2019. Even seemingly healthy hedgehogs can be carriers. Therefore, hedgehogs are generally not recommended for households with children under five years old, seniors, or individuals with weakened immune systems due to the risk of Salmonella transmission.
1.2. Hedgehogs As Pets: Key Considerations
To minimize the risk of Salmonella infection, the CDC recommends the following precautions:
- Wash Hands Thoroughly: Always wash your hands with soap and water immediately after touching, feeding, or caring for a hedgehog or cleaning its enclosure.
- Safe Play: Avoid kissing or snuggling your hedgehog to prevent the spread of Salmonella germs to your face and mouth. Additionally, do not allow hedgehogs to roam freely in areas where food is prepared or stored.
- Clean Environment: Clean and wash enclosures, toys, and supplies outside your home whenever possible. Avoid cleaning these items in the kitchen or any area where food is prepared, served, or stored.
2. Are Hedgehogs Cuddly? Understanding Their Social Behavior
Hedgehogs are generally not cuddly animals and are solitary by nature. In the wild, they live alone, and this instinct carries over into their behavior as pets.
Building trust with a pet hedgehog requires time, patience, and a gentle approach. While some hedgehogs may become more comfortable with handling over time, they are unlikely to become truly cuddly in the same way as a cat or dog. A study published in the Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine emphasizes the importance of gentle handling and positive reinforcement when interacting with hedgehogs to build trust and reduce stress.
2.1. Building a Bond: Handling and Interaction Tips
If you acquire a hedgehog when it is young and gradually acclimate it to being handled, it may become playful and tolerant of interaction. However, it’s important to respect its boundaries and not force interaction. Once your hedgehog is comfortable, you can gently stroke its quills, allow it to climb on your arms, and explore under your supervision. Remember to always approach your hedgehog calmly and avoid sudden movements that might startle it.
2.2. Understanding Quill Reactions
Hedgehogs raise their quills as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened or stressed. This is a natural behavior and does not necessarily mean that your hedgehog dislikes you. It simply indicates that it feels insecure or needs time to adjust to its surroundings. With patience and consistent gentle handling, many hedgehogs will learn to relax and lower their quills when they are around their owners.
3. How Hard Is It To Have A Hedgehog As A Pet?
Owning a hedgehog requires a significant commitment of time, effort, and resources. While they may be smaller than cats or dogs, hedgehogs have unique needs that must be met to ensure their health and happiness.
Hedgehogs need exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary care. They also require a spacious enclosure, an exercise wheel, and toys to prevent boredom. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), hedgehogs need specialized care that goes beyond basic pet ownership.
3.1. Nocturnal Habits: Adjusting Your Schedule
It’s important to note that hedgehogs are nocturnal, meaning they are active at night and sleep during the day. This can impact your interaction with your pet, as they will be most active when you are typically winding down for the evening. Most hedgehogs become active around dinnertime and sleep in the morning when you wake up. Therefore, consider whether you can accommodate a pet that is primarily active during the night.
3.2. Exercise Requirements: Wheels and Playtime
Hedgehogs are naturally active animals that cover long distances in the wild in search of food. To maintain their physical health and prevent obesity, pet hedgehogs need regular exercise. An exercise wheel is essential for providing them with an outlet for their energy. Additionally, providing toys and opportunities for exploration can help keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom.
4. Are Hedgehogs Dangerous? Addressing Safety Concerns
While hedgehogs are generally not considered dangerous pets, there are some safety concerns to be aware of.
These concerns primarily revolve around the potential for Salmonella transmission, quill punctures, and bites. However, with proper precautions and handling techniques, these risks can be minimized. A study in the Journal of Small Animal Practice highlights the importance of educating owners about potential zoonotic diseases associated with hedgehogs to prevent health risks.
4.1. Salmonella Risk: Prevention is Key
As mentioned earlier, Salmonella is a significant concern when owning a hedgehog. To prevent infection, always wash your hands thoroughly after handling your hedgehog or cleaning its enclosure. Avoid kissing or snuggling your hedgehog and keep its environment clean. If you are particularly vulnerable to infection due to age or a weakened immune system, consider whether a hedgehog is the right pet for you.
4.2. Quill Punctures: Handling with Care
Hedgehog quills can penetrate skin and potentially spread bacteria, leading to infections. If you get a puncture from a hedgehog quill, wash your hands and the puncture area thoroughly with soap and water. Monitor the area carefully for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus. While hedgehog quills are not poisonous, they can cause discomfort and should be handled with care.
4.3. Hedgehog Bites: Understanding the Cause
Although hedgehogs can bite, their tiny teeth are unlikely to cause significant pain. The force of a hedgehog bite typically depends on how the animal is feeling. A stressed or frightened hedgehog may bite as a defensive mechanism. However, bites are relatively rare if the hedgehog is handled gently and feels secure. Hamsters and other rodents are generally more likely to inflict a painful bite when angry or scared.
5. How Much Room Do Pet Hedgehogs Need? Creating the Ideal Habitat
Providing an adequate enclosure is crucial for the well-being of a pet hedgehog. In the wild, hedgehogs cover long distances each night foraging for food, which means that pet hedgehogs need larger enclosures than many people expect.
To keep your hedgehog happy and healthy, provide an enclosure that is at least 24″ x 24″, though larger is always better. Give them the largest enclosure possible so they have ample space to explore at night. According to the Veterinary Information Network (VIN), insufficient space can lead to stress and behavioral problems in hedgehogs.
5.1. Enclosure Size: The Bigger, the Better
While a 24″ x 24″ enclosure is the minimum recommended size, a larger enclosure will provide your hedgehog with more room to roam and explore. Consider using a plastic storage bin, a wire cage with a solid bottom, or a custom-built enclosure. Avoid enclosures with wire mesh floors, as these can injure your hedgehog’s feet.
5.2. Location Matters: Where to Place the Enclosure
Note that hedgehogs are active and noisy at night, so it is generally not recommended to keep them in your bedroom. Place the enclosure in a quiet area of your home where your hedgehog will not be disturbed during the day but can still experience some ambient light and sound. This will help regulate its sleep-wake cycle.
6. What Do Hedgehogs Need In Their Cage? Essential Enclosure Items
To keep hedgehogs happy and healthy, they must stay active and engaged. An exercise wheel is a must-have in any hedgehog enclosure, as are a litter box, sleeping box, and feeding area.
Providing these essential items will help create a stimulating and comfortable environment for your pet hedgehog. According to research from the University of Bristol, environmental enrichment is critical for the psychological well-being of captive hedgehogs.
6.1. Exercise Wheel: A Must-Have for Active Hedgehogs
An exercise wheel is essential for allowing your hedgehog to burn energy and maintain its physical health. Choose a solid-surface wheel without rungs or gaps to prevent injuries to your hedgehog’s feet. The wheel should be large enough for your hedgehog to run comfortably without arching its back.
6.2. Sleeping Area: Providing a Secure Retreat
Hedgehogs need a dark, quiet place to sleep during the day. Provide a sleeping box or hideaway made of plastic, ceramic, or fabric. This will give your hedgehog a sense of security and allow it to rest undisturbed. You can line the sleeping area with soft bedding material such as fleece or shredded paper.
6.3. Litter Box: Encouraging Hygiene
Hedgehogs can be litter-trained, which makes cleaning their enclosure much easier. Place a litter box in one corner of the enclosure and fill it with a paper-based litter or unscented cat litter. You can encourage your hedgehog to use the litter box by placing some of its droppings in it.
6.4. Feeding Area: Keeping Food and Water Accessible
Provide a shallow food dish and a water bottle or bowl in a designated feeding area. Clean the food and water containers daily to prevent bacterial growth. Make sure the water source is always accessible and that your hedgehog can easily reach the food.
6.5. Toys and Enrichment: Preventing Boredom
To keep your pet hedgehog occupied, offer a variety of tunnels and toys, such as stuffed animals or small balls. These items can help stimulate your hedgehog’s mind and prevent boredom. Rotate the toys regularly to keep your hedgehog interested.
7. What Do Pet Hedgehogs Eat? Crafting a Nutritious Diet
A proper diet is essential for the health and well-being of your pet hedgehog. In the wild, hedgehogs eat a varied diet of insects, plants, and roots. As pets, they require a carefully balanced diet to meet their nutritional needs.
To keep your pet healthy, feed your hedgehog a high-quality hedgehog-specific kibble with at least 30% protein and less than 20% fat, supplemented with a variety of the following: According to the National Research Council, hedgehogs require a diet that is high in protein and low in fat to prevent obesity and other health problems.
7.1. High-Quality Hedgehog Kibble: A Dietary Staple
Hedgehog-specific kibble should form the basis of your hedgehog’s diet. Look for a kibble that is specifically formulated for hedgehogs and contains at least 30% protein and less than 20% fat. Avoid cat or dog food, as these are not nutritionally appropriate for hedgehogs.
7.2. Supplemental Foods: Adding Variety and Nutrition
In addition to kibble, you can supplement your hedgehog’s diet with a variety of other foods, including:
- Insects: Crickets, mealworms, and waxworms are excellent sources of protein for hedgehogs. Offer these insects in moderation, as they are high in fat.
- Cooked Meats: Small amounts of cooked chicken, turkey, or beef can be offered as an occasional treat.
- Vegetables: Cooked vegetables such as peas, carrots, and sweet potatoes can provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Fruits: Small amounts of fruits such as berries, melon, and banana can be offered as a treat.
7.3. Foods to Avoid: Protecting Your Hedgehog’s Health
Avoid feeding your hedgehog the following foods:
- Chocolate: Chocolate is toxic to hedgehogs and can cause serious health problems.
- Grapes and Raisins: These can cause kidney failure in hedgehogs.
- Onions and Garlic: These can damage your hedgehog’s red blood cells.
- Avocado: Avocado contains persin, which can be toxic to hedgehogs.
- Dairy Products: Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant and cannot digest dairy products properly.
8. Understanding Hedgehog Behavior: Unlocking Their Quirks
Understanding your hedgehog’s behavior is crucial for providing it with a happy and fulfilling life. Hedgehogs have a variety of unique behaviors, including self-anointing, hibernation attempts, and nocturnal activity.
By understanding these behaviors, you can better care for your hedgehog and address any potential problems. According to the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians (AEMV), understanding normal hedgehog behavior is essential for recognizing signs of illness or distress.
8.1. Self-Anointing: A Peculiar Behavior
Self-anointing is a unique behavior in which hedgehogs lick and chew on objects, then produce a frothy saliva that they spread on their quills. The purpose of this behavior is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to scent marking or defense against predators.
8.2. Hibernation Attempts: Recognizing the Signs
Hedgehogs are capable of hibernating, but hibernation is not recommended for pet hedgehogs. If the temperature in your hedgehog’s environment drops too low, it may attempt to hibernate. Signs of hibernation include lethargy, coldness to the touch, and a decreased heart rate. If you suspect your hedgehog is attempting to hibernate, gradually warm it up and contact your veterinarian.
8.3. Nocturnal Activity: Adjusting to Their Schedule
As mentioned earlier, hedgehogs are nocturnal animals. This means they are most active at night and sleep during the day. It is important to respect your hedgehog’s natural sleep-wake cycle and avoid disturbing it during the day. Provide your hedgehog with plenty of opportunities for exercise and enrichment during the night.
9. Common Hedgehog Health Issues: Prevention and Care
Like all pets, hedgehogs are susceptible to certain health problems. By understanding these potential issues and taking preventative measures, you can help keep your hedgehog healthy.
Common health issues in hedgehogs include obesity, dental disease, skin problems, and cancer. According to the AEMV, regular veterinary checkups are essential for detecting and treating health problems in hedgehogs.
9.1. Obesity: Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Obesity is a common problem in pet hedgehogs due to overfeeding and lack of exercise. To prevent obesity, feed your hedgehog a balanced diet and provide plenty of opportunities for exercise. Monitor your hedgehog’s weight regularly and adjust its diet as needed.
9.2. Dental Disease: Ensuring Oral Health
Dental disease is another common problem in hedgehogs. To prevent dental disease, provide your hedgehog with hard kibble to help clean its teeth. You can also brush your hedgehog’s teeth regularly with a soft toothbrush and hedgehog-safe toothpaste.
9.3. Skin Problems: Identifying and Treating Issues
Hedgehogs are prone to skin problems such as mites, fungal infections, and dry skin. To prevent skin problems, keep your hedgehog’s enclosure clean and dry. You can also add a small amount of flaxseed oil to its diet to help keep its skin healthy. If you notice any signs of skin problems, such as itching, hair loss, or redness, contact your veterinarian.
9.4. Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome: Understanding the Neurological Disorder
Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS) is a progressive neurological disease that affects hedgehogs. The cause of WHS is unknown, but it is thought to be genetic. Symptoms of WHS include incoordination, weakness, and paralysis. There is no cure for WHS, but supportive care can help improve the quality of life for affected hedgehogs.
9.5. Cancer: Early Detection is Key
Cancer is a common cause of death in hedgehogs. Common types of cancer in hedgehogs include mammary tumors, uterine tumors, and lymphoma. Early detection is key to improving the chances of successful treatment. Take your hedgehog to the veterinarian for regular checkups and report any unusual lumps or bumps.
10. Finding a Hedgehog: Reputable Breeders and Rescues
If you’ve decided that a hedgehog is the right pet for you, it’s important to find a reputable source. Look for a responsible breeder or consider adopting from a hedgehog rescue organization.
A responsible breeder will be knowledgeable about hedgehog care and genetics and will be able to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized hedgehog. Rescue organizations often have hedgehogs available for adoption that need loving homes. According to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), adopting a pet from a rescue organization can save a life and reduce pet overpopulation.
10.1. Researching Breeders: Ensuring Ethical Practices
Before purchasing a hedgehog from a breeder, do your research to ensure that the breeder is reputable and ethical. Look for a breeder who is licensed and inspected, who provides a healthy environment for their hedgehogs, and who is knowledgeable about hedgehog genetics and health. Avoid breeders who sell hedgehogs at pet stores or online without meeting the animals first.
10.2. Considering Adoption: Giving a Hedgehog a Second Chance
Adopting a hedgehog from a rescue organization can be a rewarding experience. Rescue organizations often have hedgehogs available for adoption that have been abandoned or surrendered by their previous owners. These hedgehogs may need extra care and attention, but they can make wonderful pets for the right person.
11. Hedgehog-Proofing Your Home: Creating a Safe Environment
Before bringing your new hedgehog home, it’s important to hedgehog-proof your home to ensure its safety. This involves identifying and eliminating potential hazards that could harm your hedgehog.
Common hazards include electrical cords, poisonous plants, and small objects that could be ingested. By taking these precautions, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for your pet hedgehog. According to the ASPCA, pet-proofing your home is essential for preventing accidents and injuries.
11.1. Electrical Cords: Preventing Chewing Hazards
Electrical cords can be a major hazard for hedgehogs, as they may chew on them and get electrocuted. To prevent this, cover electrical cords with cord protectors or keep them out of reach of your hedgehog.
11.2. Poisonous Plants: Identifying and Removing Threats
Many common houseplants are poisonous to hedgehogs. These include lilies, azaleas, and daffodils. Remove any poisonous plants from your home or keep them out of reach of your hedgehog.
11.3. Small Objects: Preventing Ingestion
Hedgehogs may ingest small objects such as buttons, coins, and jewelry, which can cause intestinal blockages. Keep small objects out of reach of your hedgehog and supervise it carefully when it is outside of its enclosure.
12. The Legalities of Hedgehog Ownership: Checking Local Regulations
Before getting a hedgehog, it is important to check your local regulations to ensure that they are legal to own in your area. Some states and municipalities have restrictions on owning exotic animals, including hedgehogs.
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines or the confiscation of your pet. Contact your local animal control agency or department of agriculture to learn about the regulations in your area. According to the USDA, it is the owner’s responsibility to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
12.1. State Regulations: Varying Laws Across the US
Hedgehog ownership laws vary widely from state to state. Some states allow hedgehog ownership without any restrictions, while others require permits or prohibit ownership altogether. Check the regulations in your state before getting a hedgehog.
12.2. Local Ordinances: Checking City and County Laws
In addition to state regulations, some cities and counties may have their own ordinances regarding hedgehog ownership. These ordinances may include restrictions on the number of hedgehogs you can own, enclosure requirements, and noise regulations. Check with your local government to learn about the ordinances in your area.
13. Traveling With Your Hedgehog: Considerations for Safe Transport
If you plan to travel with your hedgehog, it is important to take precautions to ensure its safety and comfort. This includes providing a secure carrier, maintaining a comfortable temperature, and providing access to food and water.
You should also check with your airline or other transportation provider to learn about their policies regarding transporting hedgehogs. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), animals must be transported in a safe and humane manner.
13.1. Secure Carrier: Ensuring a Safe Journey
When traveling with your hedgehog, use a secure carrier that is well-ventilated and large enough for your hedgehog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Line the carrier with soft bedding and provide a hideaway for your hedgehog to feel secure.
13.2. Temperature Control: Maintaining a Comfortable Environment
Hedgehogs are sensitive to temperature changes, so it is important to maintain a comfortable temperature in the carrier during travel. Avoid exposing your hedgehog to extreme heat or cold. You can use a heating pad or ice pack to regulate the temperature in the carrier as needed.
13.3. Food and Water: Staying Hydrated and Nourished
Provide your hedgehog with access to food and water during travel. You can use a water bottle or a shallow dish that cannot be easily spilled. Offer small amounts of food at regular intervals.
14. The Cost of Owning a Hedgehog: Budgeting for Care
Before getting a hedgehog, it is important to consider the cost of ownership. This includes the initial cost of the hedgehog, as well as the ongoing costs of food, supplies, and veterinary care.
Owning a hedgehog can be more expensive than some people realize, so it is important to budget accordingly. According to a survey by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), the average annual cost of owning a small animal is several hundred dollars.
14.1. Initial Costs: Purchasing the Hedgehog and Supplies
The initial costs of owning a hedgehog include the purchase price of the hedgehog, as well as the cost of the enclosure, exercise wheel, bedding, food, and other supplies. These costs can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the source of the hedgehog and the quality of the supplies.
14.2. Ongoing Costs: Food, Supplies, and Veterinary Care
The ongoing costs of owning a hedgehog include the cost of food, bedding, litter, toys, and veterinary care. These costs can vary depending on the individual hedgehog’s needs and the cost of veterinary services in your area. Budget for regular checkups, vaccinations, and potential emergency care.
15. Finding a Veterinarian for Your Hedgehog: Specialized Care
Finding a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about hedgehogs is essential for providing your pet with the best possible care. Not all veterinarians have experience treating exotic animals, so it is important to find one who specializes in hedgehog care.
A specialized veterinarian will be able to provide you with advice on diet, housing, and health care, as well as diagnose and treat any health problems that may arise. According to the AEMV, it is important to establish a relationship with a veterinarian who is experienced in treating exotic animals before you acquire a hedgehog.
15.1. Searching for Exotic Animal Vets: Finding the Right Expertise
To find a veterinarian who specializes in hedgehog care, ask your local animal shelter or rescue organization for recommendations. You can also search online for exotic animal veterinarians in your area. Look for veterinarians who are members of the AEMV or who have experience treating hedgehogs.
15.2. Questions to Ask: Assessing Their Knowledge
When you find a veterinarian who may be a good fit for your hedgehog, ask them questions about their experience with hedgehogs. Ask them about their knowledge of common hedgehog health problems, their approach to diagnosis and treatment, and their fees for services. This will help you assess whether they are the right veterinarian for your pet.
FAQ: Addressing Your Hedgehog Questions
1. Are hedgehogs good pets for beginners?
Hedgehogs can be rewarding pets, but they require specific care and aren’t ideal for all beginners. Their nocturnal nature and unique dietary needs can be challenging.
2. What is the average lifespan of a pet hedgehog?
With proper care, pet hedgehogs typically live for 3-6 years.
3. Do hedgehogs smell bad?
Hedgehogs themselves don’t have a strong odor, but their enclosure can if not cleaned regularly.
4. Can hedgehogs be litter-trained?
Yes, hedgehogs can be litter-trained, which makes cleaning their enclosure easier.
5. What are the signs of a sick hedgehog?
Signs of illness include lethargy, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, and changes in behavior.
6. How often should I clean my hedgehog’s cage?
Spot clean the cage daily and do a thorough cleaning once a week.
7. What temperature should I keep my hedgehog’s environment?
Keep the environment between 72-80°F (22-27°C).
8. Can hedgehogs live with other pets?
Hedgehogs are solitary animals and should generally be housed alone.
9. What toys are safe for hedgehogs?
Safe toys include tunnels, small balls, and stuffed animals without small parts that could be ingested.
10. How often should I take my hedgehog to the vet?
Take your hedgehog to the vet for an annual checkup, or more frequently if needed.
Taking on a pet hedgehog is a big decision that requires careful thought and preparation. By understanding their unique needs and behaviors, you can provide them with a happy and healthy life. At PETS.EDU.VN, we’re dedicated to providing you with reliable and comprehensive information to assist you in your pet ownership journey.
For more detailed information on hedgehog care, health, and behavior, and to connect with a community of hedgehog enthusiasts, visit us at PETS.EDU.VN. Our expert articles and forums are designed to help you become the best hedgehog parent possible. Need to find a local vet or order specialized hedgehog supplies? pets.edu.vn has you covered! Contact us at 789 Paw Lane, Petville, CA 91234, United States. Whatsapp: +1 555-987-6543.
