Which One Makes a Better Pet: Hedgehogs or Echidnas? A Comprehensive Comparison

by

Hedgehogs are small, spiny mammals that are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. They have a round body covered in sharp spines, a small face with a pointed snout, and tiny legs. Hedgehogs come in a variety of colors, including brown, black, and white, and they typically weigh between 1 and 2 pounds. One of the most distinct physical characteristics of hedgehogs is their ability to roll into a tight ball when they feel threatened.

Echidnas

Echidnas, also known as spiny anteaters, are native to Australia and New Guinea. They have a similar appearance to hedgehogs, with a round body covered in spines, but their snout is much longer and more pointed. Echidnas are typically black or brown and can weigh up to 22 pounds. Unlike hedgehogs, echidnas cannot roll into a ball for protection.

Personality and Temperament

Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs are generally solitary animals and prefer to be alone. They are nocturnal and sleep during the day, which makes them great pets for people who work during the day. Hedgehogs are known for their spiky exterior, but they can be quite docile and friendly. They can also bond with their owners and enjoy being held and played with.

Echidnas

Echidnas are also solitary animals and prefer to be left alone. They are not as social as hedgehogs and may become stressed if handled too much. Echidnas are also nocturnal and sleep during the day. They are not as easy to handle as hedgehogs and may require special care and attention.

Diet and Nutrition

Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs are insectivores and require a diet that is high in protein and low in fat. They can eat a variety of insects, including crickets, mealworms, and beetles. Hedgehogs can also eat small amounts of fruits and vegetables, but these should not make up the bulk of their diet. It’s important to provide hedgehogs with fresh water at all times.

Echidnas

Echidnas are also insectivores and require a diet that is high in protein and low in fat. They eat ants and termites in the wild, but in captivity, they can be fed a diet of mealworms, crickets, and other insects. Echidnas also require fresh water at all times.

Health Issues

Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs can be prone to a variety of health issues, including dental problems, obesity, and respiratory infections. They are also susceptible to mites and fleas, so it’s important to keep their enclosure clean and free of pests. Hedgehogs can also develop fatty liver disease, which can be caused by a diet that is too high in fat.

Echidnas

Echidnas can be prone to obesity if they are not fed a proper diet. They may also develop respiratory infections and dental problems. Echidnas can also be susceptible to stress-related illnesses, so it’s important to provide them with a quiet and peaceful environment.

Habitat and Enclosure

Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs require a cage that is at least 2 feet long by 2 feet wide, with a solid bottom and plenty of ventilation. They also need a hiding place and a wheel for exercise. Hedgehogs prefer a warm environment, so the enclosure should be kept at around 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Echidnas

Echidnas require a larger enclosure than hedgehogs, with plenty of room to move around. The enclosure should also have a hiding place and a place to sleep. Echidnas prefer a cooler environment than hedgehogs, so the enclosure should be kept at around 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Handling and Interaction

Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs can be handled and played with, but they may become stressed if handled too much. It’s important to handle hedgehogs gently and to provide them with a quiet and peaceful environment. Hedgehogs can also be prone to biting if they feel threatened.

Echidnas

Echidnas should not be handled unless absolutely necessary, as they may become stressed and may try to escape. If handling is necessary, it should be done with extreme care, as echidnas have sharp claws and can be difficult to handle.

Legalities and Regulations

It’s important to check with your local authorities to find out if hedgehogs or echidnas are legal to keep as pets in your area. In some places, it may be illegal to keep these animals as pets, while in others, you may need a special permit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both hedgehogs and echidnas can make great pets, but they require special care and attention. Hedgehogs are generally more social and easier to handle, while echidnas are more solitary and may require more specialized care. When deciding which one to keep as a pet, it’s important to consider their physical characteristics, personality and temperament, diet and nutrition, health issues, habitat and enclosure, handling and interaction, and legalities and regulations. And, to answer the question, hedgehogs do have a distinct smell, but it varies from individual to individual and can range from musky to sweet.

ThePetFaq Team
Latest posts by ThePetFaq Team (see all)