My Hedgehog Hates Me? The 135 Top Answers

Owning a pet hedgehog can be an incredibly rewarding and fun experience. They’re cute, cuddly (even with the spikes) and super unique!

Because of this, there is a growing interest in hedgehogs as pets and we couldn’t be happier. Honestly, we think everyone should consider owning a hedgehog if you are looking for something unique.

However, there are some things you should know before you rush out and buy one.

Because of their cute nature and growing popularity, many people skip the important process of learning about the animal and determining if a hedgehog is a right pet for them. This leads to poor care of their hedgehog, purchases from bad breeders, and other problems.

So we’ve put together this list of everything you need to know to be sure if a hedgehog pet is right for you. When you’re done with that, you’ll know exactly what to expect.

Enjoy!

1. Are hedgehogs good pets?

Let’s get that out of the way first. Because of their unusual nature, many people don’t know whether hedgehogs make good pets or not.

Some people assume they’re extremely difficult and high-maintenance, and others believe they’re perfect cuddle balls that don’t require any effort to raise.

As always, the truth lies somewhere in the middle. If you think they’re completely hands-free, you’d be surprised, but it’s not much more of a hassle than owning a dog (you’re just spending your time doing other things).

So are hedgehogs good pets? Absolutely!

Pet hedgehogs will thrive and be loads of fun if you understand what they need and give them the right care. The same is true of any domesticated animal.

However, that doesn’t mean they make good pets for everyone. There are several lifestyle factors that may not align with your schedule, and you should be aware of them before taking the plunge.

Don’t worry, we’ll cover these in detail later in the guide!

2. One kind stands above the rest

There are seventeen different species of hedgehog found on the planet, but one that is best suited as a pet. This species is the African pygmy hedgehog.

These cuties are the type of hedgehogs you’ve probably seen the most online, especially when you look at other people who own them as pets. We have nothing against the other hedgehog species, of course, but there are three main reasons why the African pygmy is considered the best choice:

They are the smallest of all types, making them easy to manage and fit into your home. Their temperament is well suited to being pets. They are naturally shy and will warm to you over time. You are the cutest of them all! They have a very adorable and eye-catching appearance and can come in a variety of colors.

Luckily, you don’t have to spend a lot of time clarifying which species you want when talking to breeders. The African Pygmy Hedgehog is pretty much the only option you’ll find once you start shopping.

3. You need to make sure they are legal where you live

As funny as it may seem, pet hedgehogs aren’t legal everywhere. The majority of states in the US allow them, and most European countries do as well.

However, there are some places where they are completely illegal or require you to obtain a permit before owning one. The origin of these regulations is believed to lie in the fact that hedgehogs can, in some situations, transmit foot-and-mouth disease (don’t panic, you won’t have a problem).

Before you start looking around and talking to breeders, do your research and understand the laws in your area. Assuming you aren’t in one of those unfortunate places where they aren’t allowed, consider getting a pet hedgehog!

4. Handling them takes some practice

As you’ve probably noticed by now, hedgehogs have spines (duh). This adds to her unique and interesting looks, but also poses a challenge for some new owners looking to handle it.

If your hedgehog is nervous or anxious, it will likely be quite uncomfortable to hold. This is far more common when your hedgehog is new to you and its surroundings, so you’ll need to be patient.

As the two of you become more familiar with each other, it will become easier to pick them up and deal with them. This is mainly because they are more comfortable with you and are less likely to stick their spikes out. You’ll also learn what they like and don’t like so you can keep them relaxed and comfortable more often.

5. You will learn to read their moods

A pet hedgehog’s emotions are far more complex than most people realize. The notion that they are simple creatures couldn’t be further from the truth.

New hedgehog owners will quickly discover that there are many subtleties to pay attention to when it comes to their hedgehogs. Unlike dogs, where their emotions are fairly easy to read (tail wag = happy, growl = angry), you have to look a lot harder.

Once you get used to recognizing the little signs and noises they make, your hedgehog’s mood will be much easier to understand. In fact, you’ll be shocked at how communicative they can be!

When this happens, you can take better care of them and have more fun together. They’ll know when they don’t want to be disturbed and when they’re in the mood to play with them.

6. Feeding them can be easier than you think

For the most part, feeding your pet hedgehog won’t take a lot of extra time or mental energy. As we’ve already said, they’re pretty low maintenance!

Many owners give their hedgehogs both dry and wet cat food because it has the basic nutritional properties they need. It’s also easier to find at your local pet store than hedgehog food.

Your diet can get a little more complicated when it comes to extra things like snacks. By this we mean fruits, vegetables, insects, etc. Hedgehogs love snacking and these additional foods round out their diet to keep them happy and healthy.

You’ll learn pretty quickly what foods are good for him and what your hedgehog likes best (after all, everyone has their preferences).

Another thing to be aware of is the possibility of your hedgehog overeating. They love to eat and if you are not careful they will gain weight.

Another common reason for this is that feeding them is a lot of fun and very adorable to look at. You need to keep yourself in check just like your hedgehog!

7. They are nocturnal

In case you weren’t aware, your African pygmy hedgehog is active at night and sleeps during the day. Every hedgehog is different, but most of them will get up and start their day around their dinner time.

So the best time to cuddle and give treats is in the evening before bed (assuming you’re not on the night shift). If you get up very early you might have some time to see them in the morning too, but remember they will relax after a full night of gaming.

If your schedule doesn’t match their sleep cycle, owning a pet hedgehog may not be a good fit for you. It’s also worth noting that if you’re a light sleeper and don’t have a place far from your bedroom to keep them, the noise of their nighttime activities might keep you awake.

You should also make sure their location is somewhere in your home where your daytime activities won’t disturb their sleep. It goes both ways!

This isn’t a problem for most people, but take some time to be sure before getting a pet hedgehog. You want this to be a good fit for both of you.

8. Pet hedgehogs make a variety of sounds

Hedgehogs don’t sit around and sniff all day. They’re actually quite expressive when it comes to the noises they can make!

Each sound means something different and the more you get to know your pet hedgehog the more you will understand what each sound means. They might hiss and snort when grumpy or sniff when busy exploring their surroundings.

Learning to understand these signs can make keeping a hedgehog as a pet even more fun. It’s also a great way for you to take better care of them since you’ll be more responsive to how they’re feeling.

Despite the range of noises hedgehogs can make, they’re not super loud. That means you shouldn’t have any trouble with their various chirps and sniffles keeping you up at night. They actually make a lot more noise when playing with things in their cage!

9. Practice smart hygiene

Although hedgehogs are not very dirty animals, you should still wash your hands thoroughly after handling them and touching things in their cage. They can transmit salmonella, and there have been outbreaks related to pet hedgehogs in the past. They can also get ringworm, a fungal disease of the skin (although this is not as common in domesticated hedgehogs).

All of this is easily avoided if you practice smart hygiene. It can be easy to get lax about this as you get more comfortable with your hedgehog over time, but you need to be consistent.

Wash your hands well after touching her or her cage, and don’t kiss her (although it might be tempting). If you do this, you probably won’t have any problems.

10. The temperature becomes very important to you

When you have a pet hedgehog, you become very aware of the temperature around them. Most people had no experience with this before owning a hedgehog.

The reason this is so important is that you want to avoid sending your hedgehog into hibernation or summer dormancy. Although hibernation is more likely, both can cause equally serious health problems for them, and likely lead to death.

This often comes as a surprise to many people considering keeping a hedgehog as a pet. After all, that’s nothing to worry about in a dog!

However, it’s fairly easy to manage once you’ve set it up. A few heating lamps and pads will do the job. A safe sweet spot for them is somewhere between 74 and 80 degrees. This keeps them warm, comfortable and safe.

11. Over time your hedgehog will learn to recognize you

It will take a while for your hedgehog to get used to you and who you are. During this process, new owners tend to wonder if they made a mistake or if pet hedgehogs aren’t as affectionate.

But no worry! You just have to be patient. Hedgehogs are naturally a little nervous around humans at first and it takes time for them to build that trust in you.

If you socialize and treat your new hedgehog properly, over time they will learn to recognize your voice, your looks, and your smell. This will make them feel more comfortable and relaxed around you.

Once that happens, you’re well on your way to bonding and developing a relationship with your hedgehog!

12. Find a reputable breeder

You should do your homework and find a breeder who knows their stuff and treats their hedgehogs well. There are good and bad breeders and it is up to you to make the final decision on who to buy from.

Unfortunately, in the rush to get a cute new pet, many potential owners overlook this and end up with a hedgehog that has health issues or comes from a poor environment. Don’t skip this step.

13. Hedgehogs can be quite adventurous

We’ve heard from so many new owners over the years that they were shocked to see how spunky their pet hedgehogs were. It’s really worth seeing!

Now, of course, this will be different with the hedgehog. Some are softer than others.

But for the most part, they’re all pretty damn energetic.

One minute they might be trying to climb onto your sofa covers during cuddle time, and the next they might be lugging their toys through their cage. Meanwhile, they’ll sporadically hop up and down for some quick cardio!

It’s great fun to see how active and curious they are, especially when they discover an interesting new smell. When that happens, their nose goes into overdrive and they will stop at nothing to investigate the smell.

14. They must keep their home clean

It is very important to ensure that their cage and habitat are cleaned regularly. This is not only good for your hedgehog’s health, but also for reasons of hygiene (don’t forget salmonella).

A weekly cage cleaning is a good idea to ensure they live somewhere safe and comfortable. It doesn’t take long and will do a lot to help them live a good life.

15. They make a great pet for people with allergies

If you are allergic to other animals like cats and dogs but still want a pet, owning a hedgehog could be a good move! The reason for this is that they hardly have any dander.

Other animals like cats have a lot, which is the main cause of people being allergic to them. In fact, you’re far more likely to be allergic to your hedgehog’s bedding than to your actual hedgehog.

16. You are not smelly

This is sort of a continuation from the previous point, but hedgehogs don’t smell bad. They have almost no body odor making them very comfortable to have in your home.

The only caveat to this is that their poop and pee smell. So if you don’t clean their cage regularly, you will definitely notice an odor. But as long as you take care of their home, they will continue to smell great!

17. Scheduling vet visits will be easy

Unlike many other animals, your hedgehog does not require vaccinations or vaccinations. This means you don’t have to worry about making a multitude of appointments with your vet to keep them healthy.

All you have to do is schedule an annual check-up to make sure they’re okay and don’t have any health issues. If it stays that way, you’ll be good to go until next year.

18. Manage your expectations

If you’re looking for an animal that will learn tricks and show complex displays of affection, a pet hedgehog isn’t the best choice. Yes, there are many nice touches and characters to learn over time, but you have to be realistic.

Those aren’t orcas, those are hedgehogs. Their intellect can surprise you and they are fun to watch, but they will not fetch the newspaper for you in the morning. They are also naturally shy.

The combination of these means your cuddle time together will be pretty straightforward. If you’re looking for tail wags and handshakes, this isn’t your pet.

19. They don’t need (or want) a cage buddy

In almost all situations, pet hedgehogs are better off having a cage to themselves. Because of this, we strongly encourage you to do the same.

If you insist on trying this, there are a few things you should know first. You also need to be very alert to the situation to make sure things don’t get out of hand.

Don’t try this with men at first. Any cage combination that includes males is likely to be a disaster. Two males will likely discard and fight for dominance in the room. A man and a woman together almost always result in pregnancy or even in a fight.

This means that two women are your best bet. It’s still not recommended, but it has a far better chance than the other two combinations.

Last but not least, if you’re going to try this, you’ll want to make sure they each have plenty of cage space. Don’t squeeze two hedgehogs into a tiny cage and expect everyone to be happy.

But as we’ve said before, it’s a lot safer if you don’t try at all.

20. If you travel a lot, you need a babysitter

Pet hedgehogs are not the kind of animals you can take with you on a long journey. They need attention and monitoring to ensure they thrive.

An example of this is the already mentioned heating situation. What if you leave town for a week and your power goes out? Assuming you don’t have your heat lamp on a backup generator, your hedgehog could go into hibernation and die when you come back. This may sound overly paranoid, but it’s happened before.

On the other hand, it can also be stressful for them to take with them. Hedgehogs like a nice stable environment and it will take a lot of work (and a special kind of hedgehog) to take them with you on long journeys.

That means if you’re a frequent traveler, plan on having someone stop by frequently to check on your hedgehog while you’re away. If that seems too cumbersome for you, a hedgehog probably isn’t for you.

We hope this guide on pet hedgehogs helps you better understand what it’s like to own and raise one in your home. They’re tons of fun, super adorable, and incredibly unique.

Provided your lifestyle suits, we recommend them to everyone!

This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS. dr Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in Veterinary Medicine and Surgery. She has worked at the same vet clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. This article has been viewed 184,404 times.

Article overview

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Bonding with your hedgehog is all about gradually getting him used to your touch, smell, and voice. Make sure you wash your hands before touching your hedgehog as strong odors on your skin could startle him. Gently pick it up and hold it in your hands or lap. Don’t worry if it bunches up as it will unroll when comfortable. If your hedgehog isn’t comfortable around you, leave a t-shirt you were wearing in his cage so he can get used to your smell. When petting him, pet him from head to tail, as hedgehogs like to be petted in the direction of their spines. As you pet her, speak to her in a soft tone so she associates your voice with safety and comfort. For more tips from our veterinary co-author, including how to figure out your hedgehog’s personality type, read on!

Physical Properties | Behavioral Characteristics | socialization | Sex difference Behavioral traits Bunting This unique hedgehog activity is made possible by the orbicularis muscle that runs along the edges of their bodies (Smith).

When the hedgehog is frightened, it tightens this muscle, which acts like a drawstring, allowing the hedgehog to hide its head, abdomen, feet, and legs in a spiky coat of erect spines.

When hedgehogs are nervous, a balled up hedgehog may also sniff, snort, or snort. Self-Anointing One of the strangest and most unique behaviors of all hedgehogs is the practice of self-anointing.

Hedgehogs can anoint themselves from a very young age, even before their eyes are fully open.

The first sign that a hedgehog will anoint itself is that it will show a fascination with a particular smell or taste.

They lick or chew the object of interest and produce foamy saliva, which they then deposit on various parts of the body.

You can watch your hedgehog twist and turn in a variety of fun positions as he spreads that frothy saliva all over his body.

Hedgehogs who anoint frequently, or who anoint with a particularly colorful or smelly substance, may need a bath.

The reasons why hedgehogs anoint themselves are still unknown, but it’s usually related to a new or pleasant smell. Some believe that the anointing is a form of scent camouflage, designed to mask their own broadcasts with the new scent in the area.

Others believe that the hedgehogs like the scent so much that they want it on their body in a similar way to our “perfume”.

Hedgehogs are resistant to many toxins, and one theory has it that hedgehogs spread toxins onto their spines as an added layer of protection. Leather and garlic are likely to evoke self-anointing (www.hedgies.com).

Male hedgehogs are thought to anoint more often than females (www.hedgehoghollow.com).

Some references refer to self-anointing as “anting” (Smith). Biting Any animal with teeth can bite. The only pets we know of that never bite are centipedes, goldfish, and earthworms (yes, there are people who breed worms for fun!).

Hedgehogs are not typically walkers, and their main line of defense is to curl up into a ball.

usually walkers, and their main line of defense is to curl up into a ball. We don’t want to scare you about a hedgehog bite, but we would like to draw your attention to the fact that it can happen, what to do and how to understand your hedgehog’s bite.

Hedgehogs may sip when they don’t recognize your scent or are nervous.

They can also use biting as a form of communication as they have limited vocalization abilities. Hedgehogs use biting as a way to express their needs, frustrations, feelings, or desires.

Biting may begin when they writhe to express their discomfort.

Some hedgehogs can be provoked by waking up too early or by clipping their claws.

Other hedgehogs only bite certain people or when their owners have been away for a long time. This type of biting is hedgie frustration or pouting. Elimination Habits Hedgehogs usually need to go to the bathroom within 20 minutes of waking up, so it’s a good idea to have a litter box or paper towel handy at the start of playtime.

Young hedgehogs are particularly prone to pooping on you, but they usually get better as they get older.

Many hedgehog enthusiasts joke that poop is a gift for hedgehogs. If your hedgehog is not afraid of you and gives you a small gift, you can be sure that you have found a friend! Scent marking Hedgehogs do not smell markings like other animals.

They anoint themselves as previously described. Climbing and Agility Hedgehogs attempt to climb and are often quite adept at clambering up, but their bodies are not designed for such a task.

Much like our feet, hedgehogs’ paws are designed for walking rather than climbing or holding on to things like our hands. Therefore, their descent from a climb is not at all graceful and can actually cause serious injury.

Your body mass is not designed for climbing. Squirrels, monkeys, and other things that climb tend to have long and narrow bodies rather than short and round ones.

Hedgehogs’ limbs don’t have the strength to support their round body mass when climbing, and gravity naturally works against them.

Hedgehogs usually curl up into a ball when descending from different heights.

The spikes absorb much of the impact when falling, but the hedgehog can still injure itself.

We recommend a cage with a secure lock or a cage with slippery sides high enough to prevent climbing and escaping.

Hedgehogs won’t jump out of your hands like a mouse or other animal, but they will run right off your hands.

Hedgehogs have poor depth perception, so they can fall or run off ledges that are too high, and their spikes can injure them internally. Scratching Hedgehogs often scratch a little when they first wake up. One could compare this scratching to the fluffing of a “bedhead” hairstyle.

Some hedgehogs scratch when nervous or exploring.

Quilling also causes scratches as it seems uncomfortable when the new spines work their way through the skin.

Dry or dirty skin can also cause scratches. A good bath should help this problem.

Mites are the first thing people usually think of when they see their hedgie scratching, but chances are there are more signs of mites than just the occasional itch. Hibernation and Estivation Hedgehogs will hibernate in the wild if the temperature gets too cold.

Hedgehogs in captivity can also hibernate, which is very dangerous for your pet.

Hedgehogs in the wild can go into a dormant period called summer dormancy when the weather is too hot and dry in summer. Hedgehogs bred in captivity should not undergo estivation.

In the wild, hedgehogs feed on their fat stores during hibernation and summer dormancy.

Hedgehogs living in captivity should be kept in a controlled environment to prevent hibernation or estivation.

Our Hibernation and Estivation guide goes into more detail on how to recognize signs of hibernation and what to do about it. Nocturnal hedgehogs are primarily nocturnal.

Their senses are adapted to function best at night (www.hedgies.com).

Some hedgehogs can be crepuscular, meaning they are active in the early morning and early evening.

You may think your hedgehog sleeps all the time, but most likely he’s active when you aren’t!

Baby hedgehogs sleep quite a bit, and they tend to sleep more after the stress and unusual activities that come with moving to a new home.

Hedgehogs can be gradually introduced to daytime activity with routine handling and feeding earlier in the day. Burrowing hedgehogs sleep in any dark place they can find during the day.

In the wild, they may hide from other animals in abandoned burrows, under rocks, or in thick vegetation, but they usually dig a shallow burrow of their own under some form of cover.

They enter and exit their burrows upside down, so the burrows or hiding places must be large enough for the hedgehog to turn around.

In captivity, hedgehogs still enjoy digging, and if a hedgehog escapes, it will hide in any dark, quiet place it can find.

Ideally, the hedgehog’s cage is large enough to provide an igloo or other object in which to hide. This offers hedgehogs not only an enrichment of the environment, but also a better sense of security. Solitary Hedgehogs are typically solitary in the wild, only coming together to breed, and some available information indicates that hedgehogs as pets should be kept solitary. However, some captive-bred female hedgehogs may prefer and even crave company and will go to great lengths to be with another hedgehog.

Young hedgehogs often prefer to sleep together and do better after weaning if kept in small groups rather than individually. Females raised together have shown some bonding tendencies, but buying multiples for society isn’t strictly necessary.

It’s best not to keep male hedgehogs together, as early on in sexual maturity they can start fighting.

Hedgehog fights can be quite noisy, or their arguments can go unnoticed until one is injured.

Raising females together can be a positive experience for both hedgehogs, but you also have to be willing to separate them if problems arise. Previous | Top | Next

Care and acclimatization | Tips and hints for handling | throwing training | Bathing & nail cutting

Play indoors and outdoors | hedgehog on the loose | Keeps your hedgehog warm

Tie with your hedgehog | Biting Tips and Instructions Hedgehogs are wonderful little creatures with unique habits and personalities. Their response to you depends on how you interact with them and how you respond to their needs. You must learn to respond to your hedgehog’s subtle ways of communicating and adapt to his spiky, protective instincts. Our human nature is to reach out and touch or pet our prickly friends. Hedgehogs are naturally shy and will require you to gain their trust before accepting your company. Once hedgehogs are comfortable with you, they will appreciate your affection. Washing Hands It’s always a good idea to practice proper hand washing techniques before and after handling your hedgehog.

It is best to use an antibacterial soap that does not smell fruity.

Washing your hands protects you from your hedgehog trying to bite you! It’s animal nature to want a sample when your hands smell like food or something tasty.

Proper hand washing also protects your hedgehog from bacteria. When to handle your hedgehog We recommend handling your hedgehog for at least half an hour a day. The easiest way to complete this task is 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes in the evening.

Some hedgehog owners suggest that you wait a few days to handle your new hedgehog to allow him to get used to his cage. This is not a bad idea, but in many cases it is not always necessary. We believe it’s okay if your hedgehog shows no signs of stress. deal with it from the start. This allows the bonding process with your new pet to begin immediately.

Time of Day You will find that your hedgehog is more receptive to handling at different times of the day. We usually take care of our hedgehogs in the morning because that is when it is most convenient for us and our customers when they choose their new pet. Remember that the night of the hedgehog is our day and vice versa. Giving your pooch a chance to wake up is a key to success with daily grooming. I know that if I have to get up extra early to go to work or do some other early morning activity, it will take me a while to get rid of the sleepiness and get moving. Sometimes we take in hedgehogs to wake up and be active when they really need some time to get their bearings! Most hedgehogs are receptive to handling in the evening as this is when they will wake up and become active on their own. Hedgehogs can slowly adapt to your lifestyle over time and with a little patience. Gradually feed and play with your hedgehog earlier and earlier in the day. Eventually, your hedgehog will get used to eating and being more active during the day.

Signs of Stress The first and perhaps most overlooked sign of stress is the hedgehog’s frantic attempt to escape. Many hedgehogs are busy trying to explore, but a stressed hedgehog is much more persistent and less likely to be distracted. The stressed hedgehog may also twitch or shake his head nervously. It’s almost like the hedgehog saying, “Overstimulation. I can’t take it anymore.” The hedgehog may give you a warning bite if the first two signs are missed. Keep in mind that this bite isn’t out of aggression or meanness, it’s simply an attempt to say, “Hey, you’re not paying attention to my needs.” Green poop is the most obvious sign that your hedgehog is stressed. This result is due to the food going through the hedgehog too quickly and you see green bile.

Speed ​​of lifting your hedgehog When you lift your hedgehog, just do it! It is important to move steadily and safely. Certainly picking up a hedgehog doesn’t hurt nearly as much as getting a shot, but the spikes are sharp and they’ll sting you to an extent. How you handle your hedgehog will determine how much it bites you.

Compare lifting a hedgehog to a nurse giving you an injection. You don’t want her to ram the needle into you, but at the same time you don’t want her to be pulled out and go extremely slow. Consistency and confidence are what you expect from a nurse.

If you move quickly and jerkily, your hedgehog might feel like you’re attacking him.

Hedgehogs have poor eyesight, but they are very good at detecting movement. If you hesitate or tear your hands away from the hedgehog when you pick him up, he will sense that you are scared and in return he will wince and huff because he is getting scared.

The more trust you have in your hedgehog, the more secure the hedgehog will feel with you.

Hedgehogs learn how to react when picked up. Often (but not always) a frightened, nervous hedgehog has learned to react like this when picked up. Technique Use both hands to lift your hedgehog from below. You can also use the side of the cage to roll the hedgehog onto your hands if you can’t get your hands on either side of the hedgehog.

Try to distribute the hedgehog’s weight between your hands. The more even the pressure of the spikes, the less it hurts. A good analogy is when an artist walks on nails. You don’t walk on one nail at a time; instead they spread their weight over many nails.

Some people prefer to use the sides of their hands to scoop the hedgehog, and other people use their fingers to slide under the belly.

You can pick up the hedgehog with bedding for padding. Soft, fluffy linens like Care Fresh work well for padding

It’s natural for the hedgehog to ball up when you pick it up, but as you get more comfortable it should start to unfold. Once your hedgehog is comfortable with you, he may bun up just a little or not at all.

Do your best not to provoke your hedgehog into huffing and puffing. You can actually train your hedgehog to react like this when you pick him up. Need for Gloves Quite a few hedgehog books and owners recommend the use of rubber or leather gloves when handling hedgehogs, but gloves are NOT a necessary part of handling hedgehogs. The reason for using gloves is that you can handle your pet more comfortably and the spikes won’t poke you. We teach all our customers how to handle our baby hedgehogs without gloves. The hedgehog can be more comfortable with your movements and you will be less afraid of his movements. However, using gloves to learn how to lift your hedgehog is better than not touching your hedgehog at all or not having the confidence to lift your hedgehog properly.

Type We recommend using cotton gardening gloves with rubber-coated palms and fingers. Leather gloves are stiffer, harder to maneuver, and harder to take off. They also smell completely different and it will be harder for Hedgie to get used to your hands. It’s a good idea to sleep with your cotton gloves under your pillow or tuck them in your shirt so they are fully permeated by your scent. This is how the hedgehog connects the gloves to you.

Technique Use the same method to pick up your gloved hedgehog as you would without gloves. Let the hedgehog roll out in your hands and start walking around. Once the hedgehog has started to relax, you can start removing your gloves. When you and your hedgehog are comfortable, take off a glove and let the hedgehog get to know your naked skin scent. Once one glove is off and the hedgehog is still comfortable, you can take off the other glove.

Other Methods Some people choose to use a cat litter scoop to gently lift them out of their cage. We advise against this method, as the hedgehog will not get used to you and will make handling more difficult in the long run. Hedgehog spines can leave small red marks on your skin and depending on your reaction to the spines, they may be itchy. Many people experience this irritation as a minor discomfort that does not occur with every handling.

Huffing, puffing and popping Understanding the puffing, puffing and popping When you first pick up your hedgehog, its spines may be erect and it will make defensive noises. It is quite natural for the hedgehog to be fearful or nervous, and the puffing and puffing noises are an attempt to scare you off. Until your hedgehog knows who you are and that you have good intentions, he’s just trying to convey his insecurities to you. Keep in mind that your hedgehog may have just woken up in the middle of the night. Not too many people enjoy waking up from a deep sleep, so your hedgehog might tell you, “Hey, I just woke up. Give me some space.” Listen to your hedgehog’s “speech” and watch how you interact with your hedgehog to see what makes him increase his shyness.

How to deal with puffs, puffs and pops As described above, lifting your hedgehog correctly is the first step in minimizing puffs, puffs and pops. The best thing to do is nothing! Just hold your hedgehog in your hands, away from your body (exploration mode) and wait. Don’t try to pet your hedgehog, just let him get out of his ball and start exploring on his own. Once your hedgehog has relaxed, it will shed its spines and start moving on your hands. If you hold your hedgehog close to your body, it will sense your clothing and may try to burrow into your clothing. Your hedgehog is less likely to shed its spines when it’s around you. DO NOT provoke your hedgehog into panting or hissing by touching his tines while he is in his cage or on the ground. This encourages the hedgehog to react like this every time a human hand approaches it. Always pet your hedgehog while it is in your hands. Never reach into the cage to pet your hedgehog unless your hedgehog is completely comfortable with you.

Unleashing Natural Curiosity Once your hedgehog is raised, outdoors and kept simple, curiosity will most likely get the best of your hedgehog and he will begin to unfurl and stick his head out to see where he is and what’s going on on. Angle your hands so that the hedgehog’s head is slightly lower than the rest of its body can also help it get out. It will feel like going downhill and can get out quicker to see what’s going on. Be careful not to tilt your hands too much so it rolls off your hands. A few gentle hops (raising and lowering hands about an inch) can also encourage your hedgehog to come out and see what’s going on. Until your hedgehog relaxes, don’t try to pet him, just talk to him and let him know he’s safe. When your hedgehog realizes he’s outdoors, he’ll try to get around on your hands. Make sure your hedgehog ducks his head. This is his main form of self-defense. Notice what you did that caused it to duck its head. Most likely, he heard a noise or didn’t like the way you approached him with your hands.

The Water Method Many hedgehogs enjoy spending time in the water, as detailed in our Bathing and Nail Trimming Guide. A bath can help your hedgehog relax and get to know you during the bathing process. Even the grumpiest hedgehog will roll out in the water. Run a small, gentle stream of water down your hedgehog’s back. The rushing of the water is often enough to make a hedgehog roll up. Carefully lower your hedgehog into a shallow pan or tub of water and let him roam around. I’ve never seen a hedgehog drown, but if you’re not careful the hedgehog can certainly inhale water or suck water into its lungs. Some vets use the shallow pan method of warm water to get their uncooperative patients to relax. This allows for a basic visual examination without the need for anesthesia. It is very important that your hedgehog is completely dry after bathing. Cuddle time after a bath is also a great time for bonding.

Exploration Mode When your hedgehog relaxes, he will most likely start exploring and searching his surroundings.

Some hedgehogs are brave explorers and will instantly roll up and walk on your hands. Others start sniffing and duck their heads at the slightest sound.

Hedgehogs won’t jump, but they will run right off your hands. When your hedgehog comes off, move him in front of it with one hand so he has a new walking platform.

Hedgehogs are not “fast” compared to other animals, but if a hedgehog moves in your hands, it will certainly appear fairly quickly.

As your hedgehog gains confidence in your hands, he will gain confidence in you. Petting hedgehogs Although hedgehogs are “pets”, they don’t automatically like being petted. You must first gain your hedgehog’s trust so that he can relax and enjoy your touch instead of fearing your touch as potential harm.

You must first gain your hedgehog’s trust so that he can relax and enjoy your touch instead of fearing your touch as potential harm. It’s OK. Start trying to pet your hedgehog as soon as he’s relaxed and exploring in your hands.

If you notice that your hedgehog pulls his “visor” over his eyes, this is a signal to you that he is not yet completely comfortable with you or that he does not like what you are doing.

If your hedgehog is huffing or puffing, just relax and give your hedgehog time to relax. Don’t try to keep stroking it.

You actually TEACH the hedgehog to huff and puff in your hands if you keep petting the hedgehog when it isn’t ready to pet it. Give it more time to just explore in your hands to make it feel more comfortable for you.

Always pet your hedgehog while it is in your hands.

Never reach into the cage to pet your hedgehog unless your hedgehog is completely comfortable with you. Technique Most people know how to pet a hedgehog from front to back, just like you would any other animal.

I’ve found that hedgehogs respond to pets much more quickly if they’re exercised in a way that allows them to see your hand, smell your hand, and know what’s about to happen.

It’s important to approach your hedgehog from the front and below eye level. The most common mistake I see when dealing with hedgehogs is that most people are locked in to approach the hedgehog from behind.

It’s also important to you to use firm and deliberate strikes, rather than a light push over the tips of the spikes. Compare the approach with light pressure to a tickle and the firmer caress to a massage. I know I relax when my back is massaged, but I cramp up and get goosebumps when someone runs a single finger down my spine. The “Root” The easiest way to pet a hedgehog is to let it do the work for you. Once your hedgehog moves in your hands, it will likely “root” under your thumbs.

Pay close attention to opportunities to rub your hedgehog from nose to crown. Most likely, your hedgehog will put his nose in your hand as if to say, “Ah, that feels good.

The tunnel”

If you are right-handed, you should hold your hedgehog in your left hand. Make a “V” with your thumb and forefinger and move your right hand up and over the hedgehog’s nose.

Again, by allowing your hedgehog to see, smell, and feel your hand approaching his face, he will be more prepared for your touch.

Many hedgehogs will lay down their spines, relax and raise their head and nose towards your hands and “tunnel” under your hand as you rub your hand over his body.

Use your whole hand to apply firm pressure to the hedgehog’s spines as you pet your hedgehog. A firm, conscious pressure is similar to a massage. Light pressure or a “one-finger stroking” over their spines is more like a tickle and causes the hedgehog to raise its spines rather than relax. Grumpy Hedgehogs Hedgehogs are often referred to as “grumpy” when they don’t curl up, snort, click or burst.

Most grumpy hedgehogs aren’t actually mean or aggressive, they’re just shy, fearful, and trying to protect themselves.

Patience, persistence, and proper handling are essential to winning over your prickly friend.

Hedgehogs can become grumpy, upset about change, or ill during the quilling process. It’s important to look out for these signs, especially when behavior changes occur. Transitional Behavior It is common for new owners to experience changes in hedgehog behavior between the time they purchase their hedgehog and the time a hedgehog has settled into its new home.

There can be many reasons for this change, and understanding these reasons can help your hedgehog make a smooth transition into your home. New environment First, remember that your hedgehog will leave its familiar environment.

It leaves its cagemates and home and enters a strange new world.

A change in the environment and the associated effects are often referred to as “shipping stress”.

Animals all react differently to change. Differences in stress levels between animals are noted even at the time of weaning. Dealing with hedgehogs Dealing with hedgehogs is a delicate matter!

Owner confidence can range from not scared at all to someone who is basically scared to death of their new pet.

Proper handling is something that is learned and perfected through practice.

Read and review the tips listed above to ensure you are doing the best you can to encourage a good response from your pet. Quilling The quilling process has probably already started or will start soon by the time you bring home a baby hedgehog.

Hedgehogs can experience a range of pain and discomfort during this process, much like a child and teething.

Our quilling article gives you an insight into the process, what to expect and how to ease the discomfort.

This article will give you a glimpse of the process, what to expect, and how to ease the discomfort. Try to minimize petting if your hedgehog is panting and puffing, which are the first signs of discomfort. Instead, keep bonding with your hedgehog, allowing it to explore you by crawling on you and getting to know your envoy by sleeping on you.

You can find more gluing tips and information in our gluing guide Back | Top | Next

A quick guide to hedgehog sounds:

Hedgehogs can make a lot of noise for such small animals! And like the very largest noisy neighbors, they usually start in the garden at night. When you go to bed and try to get some sleep.

Grunt and sniff like a pig = hedgehog on the lookout for food. Puffing like a steam train = mating season. Chirping like a baby bird = hungry chicks in the nest. Screaming hedgehog = in pain and distress. Hissing hedgehog = warning sign – stay away! Hedgehogs click and “pop” = challenge, often to other males during mating season.

Do you speak hedgehogs?

If you have a hedgehog nesting house or feeding station set up in your backyard and you are lucky enough to get visitors, you will most likely hear some hedgehog noises.

Your native hedgehog can make a whole range of different noises. Anything from a baby bird to a steam train, depending on what mood she’s in. Some of the noises they make can be quite alarming until you know what they are.

Once you understand what hedgehog sounds mean, you’ll know when they need help, when they’re perfectly happy, and when they’re angry.

So let’s learn some hedgehog language. Here’s our rundown of the top 12 hedgehog noises you may hear in your yard and what they all mean.

12 hedgehog sounds and what they mean.

1. Grunt like a pig

This is the basic hedgehog sound that earns them the “pig” part of their name.

It’s the sound hedgehogs make when they’re out searching for food at night.

Although the noise can be surprisingly loud, a grunting, snuffling pig is perfectly happy and should be going about its business.

2. Puffing like a steam train

You will hear this wheezing noise in your garden in May and June during the hedgehog mating season.

The call is primarily made by the female while the male circles her. It sounds a lot like she’s trying to scare him off!

The noise really does sound like a puffing miniature steam train. It’s quite distinctive and you’ll recognize it easily.

3. Chirping like a baby bird

It would be very easy to confuse this sound with the call of young birds, especially since it occurs around the same time of year when garden bird chicks hatch.

It’s actually the sound of happy baby hoglets in the nest calling for food.

4. Coughing hedgehog

Coughing is not a good sign for a hedgehog.

A dry, sharp “barking” cough probably just means that the hedgehog’s nest is dirty and dusty, the pig has something stuck in its throat.

On the other hand, a persistent wet “chest” cough, such as a smoker’s cough, is more serious. This could be a sign your pig has lungworm and you should contact your local hedgehog rescue service.

5. Crying like a baby

When you hear a hedgehog screaming, you might think the sound is coming from a very excited human baby.

This sound is only made by pigs in great distress and pain. The pig will be injured or maybe trapped somewhere.

If you hear this noise, be sure to investigate because the hedgehog needs your help.

6. Sneezing hedgehog

Hedgehogs sneeze and it’s really cute when you catch them doing it.

A hedgehog sneeze is usually just a tickle in your nose and nothing to worry about. But if the sneezing is persistent or accompanied by coughing and wheezing, then it’s something more serious and a call to Hedgehog Rescue is in order.

7. Quack like a duck

This is a really strange sound heard from a hedgehog. Like screaming, it is also an emergency call. But while screaming indicates the hedgehog is in pain, the croaking sound is made when the problem isn’t quite as serious.

Hedgehogs might make the croaking sound when they get stuck in something. Young hedgehogs also make this noise when they are hungry.

8. Hiss like a snake

Keep your distance from a hissing hedgehog just as you would a hissing snake. When a hedgehog hisses, it means he’s really annoyed and wants you, other pigs or other animals to go away.

Hedgehogs often make the hissing sound when their nest is disturbed or when cornered or attacked by a predator.

9. Barking or clicking

When hedgehogs make that short sharp noise some people refer to as barking or clicking, they also duck their heads and jump up.

The noise is a challenge, and the movement is the hedgehog trying to head butt his opponent and stab him with his spikes.

The noise is most commonly heard when one male challenges another during the mating season.

But if you get on your local pigs nerves, they might bark/click you as well. It’s best to retreat to a safe distance, as you certainly don’t want to be headbutted and stabbed by an angry hedgehog.

10. Gentle snoring

Yes, hedgehogs snore! A snoring hedgehog makes a pretty cute little sound, and it’s sure to make you smile if you’re ever lucky enough to hear it.

The snoring sound usually means the hedgehog is sleeping peacefully. But if you hear the sound of snoring while the hedgehog has its eyes open, it may indicate that the pig is having trouble breathing.

This could be caused by lungworm or another respiratory problem. So if you encounter this noise when a hedgehog is awake, it is best to contact your local hedgehog rescue service.

11. Hedgehogs talk in their sleep

If you’ve ever been lucky enough to observe a sleeping hedgehog, you’ll find them twitching and moving their legs just like dogs.

Hedgehogs seem to dream.

During their dreams, hedgehogs make the same sounds as when they are awake, depending on what they are dreaming about

Noises made while the hedgehog is sleeping are not a cause for concern and do not need your attention.

Even an emergency call while sleeping only indicates a bad dream and the hedgehog is not in danger.

12. And from the other end!

Yes, hedgehogs fart! And hedgehog farts sound exactly how you would expect a fart to sound.

Hedgehog farts can also smell really bad, especially if you’ve fed the hedgehog fishy cat food. That could be the reason why so many hedgehog experts advise against it!

Know your hedgehog sounds and help your local pigs

If you want to hear even more amazing hedgehog noises check out this awesome blog post from Hedgehog Bottom Rescue.

British hedgehogs are in trouble and need our help.

Intensive farming, destruction of hedgerows, and use of pesticides have led to a significant decline in hedgehog numbers.

Understanding the sounds hedgehogs make in your yard can help you better understand how to help them and when to leave them alone.

For more information on how you can help hedgehogs visit:

The British Hedgehog Preservation Society.

hedgehog road.

And if you spot a hedgehog in trouble, you can find your local hedgehog rescue project by clicking here.

And if you have any other questions about hedgehog sounds, we’d love to hear from you, leave us a comment below.

Without space, a hedgehog will show signs of depression, such as excessive sleeping, refusal to eat, repetitive behavior, and self-mutilation.

Is the last point true? –Starwed 02:03, 7 May 2007 (UTC)

Yes. Very much so. Depression is common in pet hedgehogs. –Kainaw (lecture) 14:22, 07 May 2007 (UTC) I am referring to “self-mutilation”… –Starwed 16:34, 08 May 2007 (UTC)

Yes. Hedgehogs have been known to repeatedly rub the sides of the cage, chew their feet, or scratch themselves until they bleed when depressed. Owners often comment that they have an OCD hedgehog. It’s more accurate to say you have a depressed hedgehog who is performing repetitive behavior because he’s bored and pain is at least one form of stimulation. I’ve seen hedgehogs chew off their front toes, rub their noses raw on the bars of their cage, and scratch their ears until they were bloody rags. –Kainaw (lecture) 18:54, 08 May 2007 (UTC) I can’t help but think that this behavior is better described with a word other than self-mutilation, which has connotations that make its use here strange. On the other hand, I can’t think of a better term myself, and after a quick google search it seems to be applied to animals quite often. So I think it should stay as it is. (Although the article could use a few references; none at the moment.) –Starwed 00:02, 14 May 2007 (UTC)

I’ve looked into this and find it very difficult to get references on domesticated hedgehogs. The experts only seem interested in non-domesticated hedgehogs. I’ll take a different course and see if Standing Bear has published anything. He has worked with more domesticated hedgehogs than anyone, so if he has written anything it can be taken as authoritative. — k a i n a w ™ 13:37, 18 Sep 2008 (UTC)

I followed the link for reference 4 in this section and the website for Ben’s animals was created by a 5th grade student in 2000. Granted, that makes me just as old right now (21), but I’m not sure if that should really be cited as a reliable source of information. marcinkm191 talk • —Previous unsigned comment added from marcinkm191 posts ) 04:12, 11 May 2010 (UTC)

I think the article needs something about the “foaming” habit that happens when they come across something new. – Added the previous unsigned comment from 208.186.134.103 (Talk) 08:40, 14 May 2007 (UTC).

It’s called anointing. I will check the article. I believe it is in the hedgehog article and not in this article. –Kainaw (lecture) 11:55, 14 May 2007 (UTC)

This article mentions in numerous places that a domesticated hedgehog will die if allowed to hibernate. I had a hedgehog for five years that hibernated in late November each year and revived towards the end of March. Are you telling me that she rose from the dead every time? Please research the validity of this. Thanks very much! 24.119.6.181 15:32, 4 Sep 2007 (UTC) Dorfner

It states: “Attempts to hibernate due to low body temperatures are generally fatal.” It depends on many circumstances. — k a i n a w ™ 15:44, 04 Sep 2007 (UTC)

I strongly disagree that “hibernation attempts are generally fatal”. As a hedgehog owner for over 14 years and a breeder for over 4 years I have had many hedgehogs hibernate at 73F (when other issues have been present) or when the temperature has dropped a bit. The hibernation attempt, if found within a reasonable amount of time (a day or three), can be easily reversed by warming the hedgehog up with a heating pad or body heat and then installing a warming element in its cage. However, if the hedgehog is neglected for a long time or exposed to very cold temperatures, they will die. Since our house hedgehogs are kept indoors and most people keep their homes reasonably warm, a hibernation attempt detected within a few days is generally not fatal and does not usually even require a vet visit (although it is recommended that the hedgehog see a vet ). since the attempt could be triggered by health problems).

I think that the statement that hibernation attempts are “usually fatal” is an exaggeration and may put off potential hedgehog owners. I would suggest changing the wording to “Hibernation attempts can be easily reversed if caught quickly, but can become fatal if the hedgehog is neglected and hibernates for several days.” Thank you Kelly Sosik-Hamor /Hamor Hollow Hedgehogs – Previous unsigned comment added by 75.68.126.204 (Talk) 07:02, 12 Sep 2007 (UTC)

I changed the wording on hibernation to “Hibernation attempts due to low body temperatures can be fatal but are easily reversed if caught quickly” as I think this is more accurate. – Previous unsigned comment added by CThedgehogs (Talk • Posts) 12:47, 20 October 2007 (UTC)

I would also just like to add that even if caught early and “reversed”, overwintering attempts are dangerous primarily because they weaken the immune system. Perhaps something could be said about that… it’s not uncommon for a recently resuscitated hedgehog to be susceptible to an infection or mites or other health ailments that a healthy hedgehog could easily have fought off. Itmeantnothing (talk) 05:06, 27 Oct 2008 (UTC)bridget

Breeder sites are not referral links. one of the links is broken. the ihr or hedgehog register does not respond to customers. since i have been trying to get in touch with you for 3 months now. These are not sites that I would direct readers to for reference. The hedgehog breeder alliance serves to promote sales of hedgehogs together with the hedgehog headquarters and the hedgehog club. i also know numerous other hedgehog owners and hedgehog friends who have problems with the registration. —Previous unsigned comment added by Hedgehogclub (Talk • Posts) 01:32, 12 September 2007 (UTC)

I agree, but resetting the links over and over again isn’t the right way to deal with it. There is a rule of 3 reverts on Wikipedia. If you undo the same thing 3 times, prepare to get blocked. The correct way to handle this is: First time: Undo the edits and leave a note on the user’s talk page explaining that they shouldn’t put the information on the page. If they disagree with you, go to the article’s talk page, in this case Discussion: Domesticated Hedgehog.

Second time: Revert the changes and leave a message repeating yourself on the user’s talk page and emphasizing that you will suggest admin intervention if they proceed.

Third time: Go to WP:AIAV (Administrator Intervention Against Vandalism) and report the user. Have an admin warn/block the user and clean up vandalism. This keeps you away from the 3 revert rule. I hope it helps. Vandalism is frustrating, but this system of dealing with it has been developed over many years to make it easier for all of us. — k a i n a w ™ 01:43, 12 Sep 2007 (UTC)

I have to agree. The links that keep popping up do not follow Wikipedia rules. Breeder listings and those promoting commercial products and advertising should not be included here. I just hope this all gets under control. – Previous unsigned comment added by Hedgehogsforever (Talk • Posts) 02:25, 12 Sep 2007 (UTC)

I believe that the 4 toed hedgehog page also needs a review of the external links to be consistent with the rest of the hedgehog section? —Previous unsigned comment added by CThedgehogs (Talk • Posts) 00:31, 14 September 2007 (UTC)

I’m based in the UK and not sure what the vellux top material is (in the ‘enclosure’ section). I’m not sure if it’s a brand name or not? If someone who knows could maybe put a non-brand name or link on the article, I think that would make it clearer. –WezGG (talk) 23:45, 16 Sep 2008 (UTC)

Vellux is a brand name for a thread-free hypoallergenic blanket. Therefore, it cannot fray and form small threads that cause two common problems: wrapping around the hedgehog’s toes/legs or getting stuck in the hedgehog’s digestive tract. If you find blankets that are made of a similar material and have a better name for them, please edit the article. Vellux doesn’t use a name for the material other than “Vellux” and I haven’t found anyone who knows what else to call them. — k a i n a w ™ 01:58, 17 Sep 2008 (UTC)

I would like to know why owning a hedgehog is illegal in some states. Also, why is it required in the states where it is legal to hold a license and what type of license is required? Many Thanks. Noahlady – Previous unsigned comment added by Noahlady (talk • Posts) 12:32, 14 Apr 2009 (UTC)

States have laws against owning exotic animals for various reasons, such as the risk that people will release the animals into the wild and damage the ecosystem. I don’t know of any state that requires a license to keep a hedgehog. A license is required to breed hedgehogs. Some people see hedgehogs as easy money. Get a bunch of them, throw them in a bucket, force them to breed, sell the babies, buy a big screen TV. Licensing is intended to make it more difficult for such people to abuse the animals in this way. — k a i n a w ™ 13:15, 14 Apr 2009 (UTC)

Because they only live in Europe. If they came to the US and started breeding here, they could technically outperform anything in the new system because they are just so awesome (see: New Zealand). I don’t think Kainaw realizes how hard it is to breed hedgehogs properly. from source at page Snitch Ninja (Talk) 02:26, ​​12. March 2019 (UTC)

The Enclosure section states: “Cedar and pine litter contain wood oils that are dangerous to hedgehogs and can cause lung problems and even wounds. However, aspen shavings do not contain such oils and are safe to use in hedgehog enclosures.”

But “Allergies” states: “Hedgehogs are generally allergic to wood oils. Wood bedding should be avoided, especially cedar. The oil found in cedarwood can cause severe upper respiratory problems. However, pine is widely accepted as a safe substitute.”

That’s why I switched from “pine” to “aspen”.

I use Aspen shaving for my rodents because of the absence and/or reduction of wood particles that cause respiratory problems in smaller rodents such as B. my now deceased robo-hamsters.

As far as I know, there are no known wood oils in Aspen, and this pine is extremely bad for animals with wood oil allergies, such as B. hedgehog. – Previous unsigned comment added by Iyashii (talk • Posts) 09:37, 09 Aug 2010 (UTC)

The gestation period is mentioned in this text, but what about the postpartum period? Does the “puppy” drink from its mother? My question as I can’t find any signs of mammary glands after a month of pregnancy. – Previous unsigned comment added by 137.215.9.20 (talk) 21:24, 23 Aug 2010 (UTC)

I don’t know the answer to your question, but yes, they suckle their young – otherwise they wouldn’t be mammals. — Previous unsigned comment added by 94.174.112.67 (talk) 13:20, 26 November 2011 (UTC)

I have heard the term “pig herd” from several hedgehog breeders. Consider including in the article?Wq0msh (talk) 11:30, 31 Aug 2012 (UTC)MSWq0msh (talk) 11:30, 31 Aug 2012 (UTC)

Is keeping hedgehogs as pets an American thing? I have never met anyone in the UK who keeps a hedgehog this way and it is illegal to keep European hedgehogs as pets. It is common for humans to give wild hedgehogs supplemental food, but that is another matter entirely. The article aims to make that clear. Ef80 (talk) 13:41, 3 Jan 2011 (UTC)

I also live in the UK and know someone who has a pet hedgehog. It’s an African pygmy, so presumably legal. 94.174.112.67 (talk) 13:21, 26 November 2011 (UTC)

I have been told through contacts in the UK that keeping a native (European) hedgehog is illegal. Keeping an African pygmy hedgehog is legal. It is primarily an American practice, as the hedgehogs referred to as “African Pygmy” were bred in America for the specific purpose of being domesticated. I personally don’t consider them domesticated because they need to be trained to interact with humans, unlike other domesticated animals that tend to interact with humans naturally. — k a i n a w ™ 18:54, 28 November 2011 (UTC)

I live in the UK and have a pet African pygmy hedgehog. Our local vet said he treated another domesticated hedgehog, so while they’re not common pets, they’re not that uncommon. Which domestic means “interact with humans naturally” – they probably interact as much as any other small pet, like a guinea pig or a hamster. Wq0msh (talk) 13:24, 3 Sep 2012 (UTC)

This entire article reads like it was written by a middle school student for a class speech (they still retain a lot of their WILD traits (har!)). Please someone edit this to make it readable and informative. — Previous unsigned comment added by 24.0.160.128 (talk) 19:59, 28 August 2011 (UTC)

This is Wikipedia, the encyclopedia anyone (including YOU) can edit. — k a i n a w ™ 20:03, 28 Aug 2011 (UTC)

Some recent IP changes were wrong (22°C = 72°F not 40°C) and information about hedgehogs as food with no source. If this is quoted, it might be read. I rolled these back. –RichardMills65 (talk) 03:19, 06 Mar 2012 (UTC)

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