When Did Hedgehogs Become Pets? A Brief History and Fun Facts!

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Hedgehogs have been kept as pets for centuries, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that they gained popularity in the United States. Hedgehogs were first domesticated in ancient Egypt, where they were kept as pets and used for pest control. Hedgehogs were also kept as pets in ancient Rome, where they were considered a symbol of fertility.

Hedgehogs in Popular Culture

Hedgehogs have been featured in popular culture for many years. In the 1991 video game Sonic the Hedgehog, the main character is a blue hedgehog named Sonic who can run at supersonic speeds. The game was a huge success and helped to increase the popularity of hedgehogs as pets.

Rise in Popularity as Pets

The rise in popularity of hedgehogs as pets can be attributed to their unique appearance and low maintenance care. Hedgehogs are small, adorable animals with spines covering their bodies. They are also relatively easy to care for and do not require as much attention as other pets. As a result, hedgehogs have become a popular choice for pet owners looking for a low-maintenance pet.

What Makes Hedgehogs Good Pets?

Low Maintenance Care

Hedgehogs are relatively low maintenance pets. They do not require as much attention as other pets and can be left alone for longer periods of time. They are also relatively easy to feed and do not require a lot of space.

Unique Personality Traits

Hedgehogs have unique personality traits that make them great pets. They are curious and playful animals that enjoy exploring their surroundings. They also have a friendly and affectionate demeanor, which makes them great pets for families with children.

Adaptability to Small Living Spaces

Hedgehogs are adaptable to small living spaces, which makes them great pets for people who live in apartments or have limited space. They do not require a lot of room to move around and can be kept in a small cage or enclosure.

Fun Facts about Hedgehogs as Pets

Hedgehogs are Nocturnal

Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals, which means they are most active at night. This can be a fun fact for pet owners who enjoy staying up late and interacting with their pets during the evening hours.

Hedgehogs Have a Natural Defense Mechanism

Hedgehogs have a natural defense mechanism that makes them unique pets. When threatened, hedgehogs roll into a ball to protect themselves from predators. This behavior is known as “balling up” and is one of the most distinctive characteristics of hedgehogs.

Hedgehogs Have Excellent Hearing and Smell

Hedgehogs have excellent hearing and smell, which makes them great pets for people with hearing or vision impairments. They are also very sensitive to smells, which means they can be trained to recognize their owner’s scent.

Common Hedgehog Breeds Kept as Pets

African Pygmy Hedgehog

The African Pygmy Hedgehog is the most common breed of hedgehog kept as a pet. They are small in size, weighing between 350 and 700 grams, and have a lifespan of 4-6 years. They are also relatively easy to care for and have a friendly and affectionate personality.

Algerian Hedgehog

The Algerian Hedgehog is another breed of hedgehog that is commonly kept as a pet. They are slightly larger than the African Pygmy Hedgehog, weighing between 500 and 1000 grams, and have a lifespan of 4-7 years. They are also relatively easy to care for and have a friendly personality.

European Hedgehog

The European Hedgehog is a less common breed of hedgehog kept as a pet. They are slightly larger than the African Pygmy Hedgehog and have a lifespan of 2-5 years. They are also relatively easy to care for and have a friendly personality.

Should Hedgehogs Be Out in January?

Hedgehogs should not be kept outside in January, as they are sensitive to cold temperatures. Hedgehogs are native to warmer climates and are not adapted to survive in cold weather. If you have a pet hedgehog, it is important to keep them in a warm and comfortable environment, especially during the winter months.

In conclusion, hedgehogs have a long and interesting history as pets. They are unique animals with distinctive personality traits and are relatively low maintenance pets. Hedgehogs are also adaptable to small living spaces and make great pets for people with limited space. If you are considering getting a hedgehog as a pet, make sure to do your research and provide them with a warm and comfortable environment to live in.

ThePetFaq Team
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