Hedgehogs can be an adorable addition to your family, but are they expensive to keep? Initial costs for purchasing from a reputable breeder and setting up a cage can range from $100–$500. Weekly expenses for food and bedding can vary from $2–$10, while vet visits can be costly due to hedgehogs’ susceptibility to illnesses.
Consider budgeting for your hedgehog’s care to ensure their well-being.
1. Purchase from a reputable breeder to avoid health issues.
2. Set aside funds for weekly food and bedding expenses.
3. Be prepared for potential pricey visits to an exotic pet vet for any health concerns.
Purchase from a reputable breeder and cage setup will cost between $100–$500. Food and bedding cost is about $2–10 per week depending on the type of food and bedding you use. Hedgehogs are susceptible to several different illnesses however and a visit to an exotic pet vet can be quite expensive.
What disease can hedgehogs give you?
Hedgehogs can transmit Salmonella through close contact, so avoid kissing or snuggling them. This can lead to illness if germs reach your face and mouth. In spaces like kitchens, restrict hedgehogs to prevent contamination of food preparation areas.
Do pet hedgehogs cuddle?
Pet hedgehogs generally do not cuddle. However, with time and regular handling, you can stroke their quills and let them climb up your arms to explore safely. It is important to always supervise your hedgehog during these interactions to avoid any accidents or injuries.
1. Hedgehogs may show affection through other behaviors like snuggling against your hand or sitting in your lap.
2. Provide a warm, cozy environment in their enclosure to promote comfort and security.
3. Offer treats to build positive associations with handling and interaction.
4. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises to prevent them from feeling stressed.
Are hedgehogs cuddly pets?
Yes, hedgehogs can be playful pets if properly acclimated when young, although they may not be traditionally cuddly. To bond with your hedgehog and help them become more comfortable with handling, consider the following tips:
1. Spend time with your hedgehog daily to build trust.
2. Handle them gently to prevent stress.
3. Provide a comfortable environment with plenty of hiding spots.
4. Offer a variety of toys for enrichment.
Can hedgehogs have celery?
Hedgehogs can have celery. Once your pet hedgehog is comfortable and used to being handled, you can stroke their quills and let them climb up your arms to explore under supervision.
1. Celery should be given as an occasional treat, not a regular part of their diet.
2. Wash the celery thoroughly before feeding it to your hedgehog.
3. Cut the celery into small, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking hazards.
4. Monitor your hedgehog for any signs of digestive issues after eating celery.
Why does my hedgehog sploot?
Your hedgehog sploots as a sign of feeling threatened, scared, nervous, or unhappy. This behavior is a way for them to show intimidation towards perceived threats or discomfort.
1. Splooting can indicate stress or discomfort.
2. Some hedgehogs may sploot when feeling insecure in their environment.
3. Providing a safe and comfortable habitat can help reduce splooting behavior.
Do hedgehogs bite if you pick them up?
Hedgehogs may bite if you pick them up initially, but with time and proper handling, they can become more comfortable with being held. Once your hedgehog gets used to you, you can pet them, allow them to crawl on you, and explore under your supervision. This process requires patience and slow, gentle interactions to build trust and prevent any potential biting behavior.
Can I put a hedgehog in my garden?
Yes, you can have hedgehogs in your garden. Hedgehogs like to self-anoint by licking items and then biting them to create a frothy substance they spread on their backs. Therefore, it’s important never to let a hedgehog lick you to ensure your safety. If you want to support hedgehogs in your garden, consider creating a hedgehog-friendly environment by:
1. Providing shelter such as hedgehog houses or piles of leaves.
2. Leaving out shallow dishes of water.
3. Avoiding the use of chemicals or pesticides.
4. Checking for hedgehogs before doing any garden work.
Why does my hedgehog jump when I pet him?
Your hedgehog jumps when you pet him as a scared reaction, not aggression. It’s common in new environments when overwhelmed. This behavior is a defense mechanism rather than a sign of aggression. The hedgehog might be feeling scared due to all the new changes and surroundings. Give your hedgehog time to adjust and create a calm environment for them.
Why does my hedgehog huff at me?
Your hedgehog huffs at you to show feeling threatened or scared, possibly when unhappy or nervous. This behavior is a way for the hedgehog to appear bigger and intimidating. It signifies that the hedgehog is trying to protect itself when feeling defensive.
1. Hedgehogs may also huff if they feel overcrowded in their environment.
2. Changes in their routine or habitat can trigger huffing behavior.
3. If your hedgehog is huffing frequently, consult a veterinarian to rule out any health issues.
Is it OK to kiss a hedgehog?
Kissing a hedgehog is generally not recommended due to their quills, which can prick your lips. However, if you adopt a hedgehog when it’s young and gradually acclimate it to being handled, they can become playful pets, though they may not be particularly snuggly.
1. Hedgehogs have quills that can cause discomfort or injury if pressed against the skin.
2. It’s important to handle a hedgehog gently and patiently to build trust and minimize stress.
3. Hedgehogs may show affection in other ways, such as nuzzling or curling up near their owners.
Do hedgehogs like to be rubbed?
Hedgehogs may enjoy being rubbed during baths. Bathing can help them relax and bond with you. Water can encourage even the grumpiest hedgehogs to uncurl. A gentle stream of water running over their back can be soothing. This allows them to get used to the sensation and helps build trust.
What calms a hedgehog?
Hedgehogs can be calmed by regulating their temperature. If a hedgehog is too hot, it may lay flat on its stomach with legs outstretched, breathing quickly. To calm it down, move the hedgehog to a room with proper temperatures to help cool it slowly and make it more comfortable. Other ways to calm a hedgehog include:
1. Providing a cozy hiding spot in their enclosure.
2. Avoiding sudden loud noises that may startle them.
3. Handling them gently and with care to build trust.
Can hedgehogs be left alone for a week?
Hedgehogs cannot be left alone for a week. Avoid feeding avocados, raw meats, raw eggs, and milk to your hedgehog as they are harmful and may cause digestive issues. It is important to ensure proper care and arrangements are made if you need to be away for an extended period to ensure your hedgehog’s well-being.
What age do hedgehogs get wobbly hedgehog syndrome?
Hedgehogs typically develop wobbly hedgehog syndrome (WHS) between the ages of two and three years. However, younger and older hedgehogs can also be affected by this condition.
1. Symptoms of WHS usually begin with subtle changes in a hedgehog’s gait and balance.
2. As the disease progresses, affected hedgehogs may experience muscle weakness and trembling.
3. WHS is a progressive and incurable neurodegenerative disease in hedgehogs.
How much does a pet hedgehog cost?
Hedgehog quills are “smooth, and not nearly as sharp” as a porcupine, but pet parents may still risk getting poked, says the International Hedgehog Association. The average cost of a hedgehog is an estimated $100 to $300, depending on the age, color, and friendliness, according to Hedgehog World.
Why is my hedgehog foaming?
It’s where a ‘hog will foam at the mouth, and start spreading the foam onto its spines with it’s tongue. This is completely normal, and thought to be a way for hedgehogs to cover themselves in a new smell, although researchers are still not 100% sure of the reason for self-anointing.
In conclusion, while hedgehogs can make adorable and low-maintenance pets, the initial cost of purchasing them along with ongoing expenses for their care can add up. From purchasing the proper cage and supplies to covering veterinary bills and food costs, keeping a hedgehog can be expensive. However, with proper planning and budgeting, owning a hedgehog can be a rewarding experience for those who are willing to invest the time and money into providing a loving and healthy environment for these unique little creatures. Ultimately, the decision to keep a hedgehog should be carefully considered to ensure that you can afford the financial responsibilities involved.