Hedgehogs are becoming increasingly popular as pets due to their unique personalities and adorable exterior. While hedgehogs may look sweet and cuddly, there is more to consider before bringing one home. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of keeping a hedgehog as a pet, so you can decide if they make good pets for you. From diet and habitat requirements to care needs and training considerations, we’ll cover everything you need to know before deciding whether or not a hedgehog is right for your household.
Do Hedgehogs Make Good Pets?
Yes, hedgehogs make good pets for those who are willing to provide proper care and attention. While they may require more maintenance than other small animals like hamsters or gerbils, hedgehogs can be very affectionate and interactive with their owners. They have a unique personality that is often described as mischievous and curious, making them an entertaining pet to watch.
Pros of Keeping a Hedgehog:
- Cute and cuddly appearance
- Unique personalities that vary from individual to individual
- Interactive and fun-loving creatures that can be trained
- Low-maintenance diet consisting mostly of cat food supplemented by fresh fruits, vegetables, insects, etc.
- Small size makes them suitable for most homes
- Easy to clean cages with bedding materials such as wood shavings or paper towels
- Long life span (up to 6 years)
The Adorable Charm of Hedgehog Cuddling
Hedgehogs are one of the cutest and most endearing pets to own. They have a unique charm that draws people in and makes them want to cuddle up with these small, spiky creatures. Not only do they look cute, but hedgehogs also make great companions for those looking for an unusual pet.
One of the best things about having a hedgehog is being able to cuddle it. Most hedgehogs love to be held and snuggled, especially when they’re feeling scared or lonely. That’s why it’s important that you bond with your hedgehog through regular cuddles.
Cuddling a hedgehog can provide comfort and security during stressful times. It can also be a great way to show affection towards your pet and develop trust between the two of you. Plus, cuddling is just plain fun!
How To Properly Hold A Hedgehog
- Support their neck: When lifting your pet from its cage or picking it up off the ground, always hold them securely near their shoulders so you don’t hurt their neck.
- Keep them close: Place one hand under the belly while keeping another at their back. This will help keep your pet secure and comfortable as you walk around or move about.
- Hold firmly: Be sure not to squeeze too hard when holding your hedgie! Keep a firm but gentle grip on them so that they feel safe and secure.
- Provide warmth: If possible, try to provide some extra warmth by wrapping them in a soft blanket or towel before snuggling up together.
Are Hedgehogs Good Pets?
Hedgehogs make great pets for the right person. They are relatively low-maintenance, easy to find in pet stores, and cute and cuddly. However, as with any pet, there are some considerations to take into account before bringing a hedgehog home.
Pros of Owning a Hedgehog
- Low Maintenance: Hedgehogs don’t need much space or attention; they can be left alone for days at a time without needing care.
- Affordable: The cost of owning a hedgehog is relatively inexpensive compared to other small animals.
- Personality: Hedgehogs have unique personalities that make them fun and interesting companions.
Cons of Owning a Hedgehog
- Noise Level: Hedgehogs can be quite noisy when they run on their wheel or explore their cage.
- Smell: Because of their diet and litter habits, hedgehogs can produce an unpleasant odor if not properly cared for.
- Legal Requirements: In some areas it is illegal to own certain breeds of hedgehog so you should research your local laws before purchasing one.
What Do People Say About the Smell of Hedgehogs?
There are a variety of opinions when it comes to the smell of hedgehogs. Some people say that they have a pleasant, sweet scent while others find the aroma to be unpleasant. Here is what people generally say about the smell of hedgehogs:
- Pleasant Scent: Many people describe the scent of their pet hedgehog as sweet and light, like fresh-cut grass or hay. Others compare it to cotton candy or even popcorn.
- Unpleasant Odor: However, some individuals find that their pet hedgehog has an unpleasant odor. This could be due to poor hygiene or improper diet which can cause a musky odor.
- Fecal Scent: Another common complaint about hedgehog odors is that they often emit a strong fecal scent when scared or agitated.
- Musky Aroma: Others report that their pet emits an overall musky aroma, regardless of whether they’re scared or calm.
Overall, most people agree that the smell of a healthy and properly cared for pet hedgehog is relatively mild. While there may be slight variations in scent from one individual to another, many feel that these animals possess either no discernible odor at all or just a faint one.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hedgehogs make excellent pets for many households. While they may not be suitable for every home, those who are willing to invest the time and energy into providing a proper habitat and maintaining regular veterinary care will find an incredibly rewarding companion in their pet hedgehog. With their independent personalities, quills that provide endless entertainment, and gentle nature when handled regularly, these little animals can bring joy and companionship to any family.
