Do hedgehogs like to be pet?

Every hedgehog has a unique personality, but most aren't interested in human affection. Caretakers note that it takes a lot of time and effort to get a hedgehog to tolerate being held. Like porcupines, hedgehogs have sharp, prickly quills that they use to fend off predators.

Do hedgehogs like to be cuddled?

It depends on the personality of the individual hedgehog and how much handling the hedgehog has had in the past. Some hedgehogs do seem to like to snuggle up to their human companions, while others might be shyer or simply prefer exploring and moving about over sitting still and cuddling.

Do hedgehogs like being stroked?

Light pressure or a “one finger pet” over their spines is more like a tickle and it will cause the hedgehog to raise its spines rather than to relax. Some hedgehogs love their spines petted, but others may hate for their spines to be touched or stroked.

Do hedgehogs get attached to their owners?

Some hedgehogs will bond to their owners for life (HHC). Bonding does require effort, persistence, and an understanding of hedgehogs. Many hedgehogs don't like to be petted by just anyone until they are completely comfortable with their environment. This is especially important when a hedgehog goes to a new home.

Do hedgehogs like belly rubs?

Sometimes a belly rub feels really good, and this hedgehog is here to show us just how good. Yep, it's impossible to ignore his blissful little face as he gets a mini massage! This reaction is too great to miss.

Pros and Cons of Hedgehogs as Pets

Are boy or girl hedgehogs nicer?

For many species, males are more aggressive than females. Because of this, females are typically viewed as more desirable pets than males. This tendency, however, is not true of hedgehogs. Male and female hedgehogs show no consisten temperament difference in how they react toward humans.

How do I know if my hedgehog is happy?

If a noise is loud to you, it is probably too loud for your hedgehog as well. Observe the sounds your hedgehog is making towards you as well. If he is purring, he is happy and content.

Can my hedgehog sleep with me?

You can hold a hedgehog close and let it snuggle into you without “petting” your hedgehog which may make it more nervous. You may be able to pet an otherwise “unpettable” hedgie when your hedgehog falls asleep and relaxes. Some hedgehogs might not feel comfortable being exposed.

How do I play with my hedgehog?

Don't attempt to touch your hedgie but instead allow it to get to know you on its own terms. Place your hand several inches away from your hedgehog and allow it to come up to your hands and smell you. Your hedgehog is relaxed when its quills are laid down and it is moving about without flinching every time you move.

Do hedgehogs enjoy human interaction?

Unlike your standard cat or dog, hedgehogs aren't going to enjoy human interaction straight away. They need time to warm up to you.

How long should I hold my hedgehog?

Pet hedgehogs do best if handled every day, even if it is for just a short amount of time. We recommend handling your hedgehog for at least half an hour a day. The easiest way to accomplish this task is 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes in the evening.

Do hedgehogs get lonely?

Hedgehogs are very solitary animals and should be housed separately. In the wild, they are only social during the breeding season. Their solitary nature can make it difficult for these pets to warm up to you.

How do hedgehogs show affection?

Some hedgehogs do not display outward signs of affection, while others can be quite affectionate toward their owners. Hedgehogs do not typically come when called or actively seek out human interaction. They are NOT like cats and dogs, whose personalities shows of affection vary drastically.

Why do hedgehogs lick you?

As we discussed above, licking is a natural behavior for hedgehogs to display and is almost always never a cause for concern. More often than not, your hedgehog is most likely licking you because it likes the taste of the salt on your skin.

How long does it take to bond with a hedgehog?

Encourage the bonding process

The first two weeks with your hedgehog are the most important in shaping your new companion's personality and how they will react around you! Once home, you may notice a temporary personality change from when you picked out your hedgie, and this is completely normal.

Why is my hedgehog hissing at me?

When you find a hedgehog hissing or huffing at you, most people will tell you that it is angry. But in fact, they are actually more afraid or stressed than angry.

How do I gain my hedgehogs trust?

Can I take my hedgehog for a walk?

Yes! You can take your hedgehog outside to play. It is likely that your hedgehog will enjoy the fresh air and change of scenery during the summer months. However you should always take some precautions to ensure your hedgie is safe from harm.

Do hedgehogs get sad?

Depression. Without room, a hedgehog will show signs of depression, such as excessive sleeping, refusal to eat, repetitious behaviour, and self mutilation.

Do hedgehogs like baths?

Many hedgehogs love to play in warm water and will enjoy themselves during bath time. We prefer to give hedgehogs a bath in a sink or a bathtub. Hedgehogs are prone to relieve themselves in the warm water so we prefer to use our laundry sink.

What does it mean when a hedgehog chirps?

This sound is a sign of displeasure, irritation, annoyance, or uncertainty. This sound typically accompanies puffing. This sound can normally be associated with a hedgehog that is happily exploring his surroundings. This sound can also be referred to as “chirping”.

Do hedgehogs need constant attention?

Hedgehogs are independent creatures who don't need much attention. When you have a hedgehog as a pet, then you'll want to give the animal some daily interactions that are gentle and loving. It only takes a few minutes to give them the attention they need each day, unlike a dog or a cat who might want constant contact.

Do hedgehogs like the dark?

Do Hedgehogs Need Light at Night? As they are naturally nocturnal, hedgehogs are better adapted to the dark and will not require light at night as this will risk disrupting their light-dark circadian rhythm.

Do hedgehogs like blankets?

Many hedgehog owners purchase fabrics like fleece, pillowcases, or towels to use in their enclosures since they like to hide. Not only will fabrics absorb liquids but they can be washed and reused and come in practically any color or pattern you want.

Do girl hedgehogs get periods?

For the record, hedgehogs do not have periods and shouldn't bleed throughout their reproductive cycle. Hedgehogs do have heat cycles, but it is not the same as a dog or even a human's menstrual cycle. If you notice blood in your hedgehog's cage, it's an indicator that something else is going on.