What Does It Feel Like to Hold a Hedgehog? A Guide to Hedgehog Handling and Care!

When choosing a hedgehog, it’s important to look for a healthy and active individual. Avoid hedgehogs that appear lethargic or have discharge around their eyes and nose, as these may be signs of illness. It’s also a good idea to choose a hedgehog that’s at least six weeks old and has been socialized with humans from a young age.

Creating a Comfortable Living Environment

Hedgehogs require a specific living environment to be happy and healthy. They need a cage that’s at least 2 feet long and 1.5 feet wide, with plenty of space to move around. The cage should be lined with a soft, absorbent bedding material like fleece or paper-based bedding. Avoid using wood shavings, as these can be harmful to hedgehogs’ respiratory systems.

Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals, so they need a dark, quiet place to sleep during the day. Provide a hiding spot like a small box or tunnel, as well as a wheel for exercise. Make sure the wheel is solid, not wire, as wire wheels can cause injury to hedgehogs’ feet.

Feeding and Hydration

Hedgehogs are omnivores and require a balanced diet of protein, fat, and fiber. Commercial hedgehog food is available at most pet stores, but you can also feed your hedgehog a combination of high-quality cat food, cooked chicken or turkey, and fresh vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes.

Provide your hedgehog with fresh water at all times, either in a heavy bowl or a sipper bottle. Change the water daily and clean the bowl or bottle regularly to prevent bacterial growth.

The Experience of Holding a Hedgehog

Now, onto the fun part: holding a hedgehog!

Preparing for Hedgehog Handling

Before picking up your hedgehog, it’s important to wash your hands to remove any scents that may startle them. You should also make sure your hedgehog is awake and alert, as they can be grumpy if they’re woken up from a nap.

Proper Holding Techniques

To pick up your hedgehog, place both hands under their belly and gently scoop them up. Make sure to support their entire body and avoid grabbing them by the spines. Hedgehogs have poor eyesight and rely on their sense of smell and hearing, so avoid loud noises and sudden movements that may startle them.

Reading Your Hedgehog’s Body Language

Hedgehogs communicate through body language, so it’s important to be able to read their signals. If your hedgehog is relaxed and uncurled, they’re likely happy and comfortable. If they’re curled up tightly, they may be scared or uncomfortable. If your hedgehog hisses or clicks, it’s a sign that they’re feeling threatened or agitated.

Training Your Hedgehog to be Handled

Some hedgehogs may take time to get used to being handled. Start by holding your hedgehog for short periods of time and gradually increasing the length of your handling sessions. Offer treats like mealworms or chicken to help your hedgehog associate handling with positive experiences.

Maintaining Hedgehog Health and Happiness

In addition to proper care and handling, hedgehogs require regular grooming and exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Grooming and Bathing

Hedgehogs are naturally clean animals and don’t require frequent baths. In fact, bathing too often can strip their skin of natural oils and cause dryness and irritation. Aim to bathe your hedgehog once every few months or as needed. Use lukewarm water and a mild, unscented shampoo.

Hedgehogs also require regular nail trimming and ear cleaning. Use a small, sharp nail clipper to trim the tips of their nails, being careful not to cut the quick. Use a cotton swab dipped in mineral oil or ear cleaning solution to clean their ears.

Exercise and Enrichment

Hedgehogs need regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and prevent boredom. Provide a solid, non-wire wheel for your hedgehog to run on, as well as toys like tunnels, balls, and chew toys for stimulation.

Dealing with Common Hedgehog Health Issues

Hedgehogs are susceptible to a variety of health issues, including obesity, dental problems, and mites. Watch for signs of illness like loss of appetite, lethargy, or discharge from the eyes or nose. Take your hedgehog to the vet if you notice any concerning symptoms.

The Joys of Hedgehog Ownership

Despite their spiky exterior, hedgehogs make loving and entertaining pets. They are known for their quirky personalities and affectionate nature. With proper care and handling, your hedgehog can live a happy and healthy life for up to 5-6 years.

In conclusion, holding a hedgehog can be a unique and enjoyable experience. However, it’s important to remember that hedgehogs require specific care and handling to ensure their health and happiness. By following the guidelines outlined in this blog post, you can give your hedgehog the love and attention they deserve.

ThePetFaq Team