You promise to provide your new pet with the best life imaginable when you bring them home to become a part of your family. Because they are unusual pets, hedgehogs need particular attention. Before you choose to adopt, we've provided some advice on how to take care of a hedgehog as a pet.
How do you keep a hedgehog as a pet?
How do you keep a hedgehog as a pet?
Due to their diminutive size, hedgehogs can reach up to eight inches in length, and they are frequently referred to as "pocket pets." Hedgehogs are adorable, spiky animals that curl into balls when threatened.
1: As a hedgehog's lifespan is usually five years, be sure that you can take on owning one for the long term before adopting.
2: Build your hedgehog a home. Although they don't require a large area, hedgehogs are highly active, making sure the pet has enough room to run around. Hedgehogs fit well in cages made for pets, such as hamsters and rabbits. Remember that hedgehogs possess very little feet, so make sure the cage has a plastic bottom. They will find it difficult to move across an exposed grate, and it might even injure their delicate feet.
3: Training for the toilet. Hedgehogs enjoy clean environments, but they're not the sort of pet that you can readily potty train. Make a litter box out of shredded paper towels and recycled paper for the bottom of the cage. Cleaning up is made simple by this. Just take out the dirty paper, give your pet's area a quick wipe-off, and replace it with more shredded paper.
4: Diet and nutrition. Since hedgehogs mostly consume insects in the wild, their food should be tailored to meet their nutritional requirements. Hedgehogs often enjoy mealworms and crickets as snacks, which will satisfy their natural cravings. Nonetheless, specifically made hedgehog kibble can be found in pet stores. Though the contents won't meet your hedgehog's demands, you might be tempted to serve them dog or cat food.
5: Staying busy. Hedgehogs should have a running wheel in their cage because they are active animals. Because their feet are delicate, be certain to wipe them off after cleaning the cage to get rid of any urine and feces. Hedgehogs can run many miles around their cage and on their wheel at night, when they are more energetic. Your hedgehog will become gloomy and lethargic if they don't receive enough activity.
6: Cradle your hedgehog. You are allowed to hold a pet hedgehog, even though they shouldn't be allowed to roam freely. Remember that baby hedgehogs adjust to handling considerably more easily than adult hedgehogs do. Due to their nocturnal nature, it is best to interact with hedgehogs in the evening while they're still waking up. They can be resistant if you wake them up during the day. Allow them to come into your palms willingly and smell your hands before you lift them up.
7: It's possible for your hedgehog to curl up into a ball; therefore, remain patient with them until they become used to being held and start to feel at ease. They might even bite your hands, although because they have such tiny fangs, the bite will simply prick your skin rather than do much harm. Treating them is a terrific way to get them to unwind. They will eventually come to associate being held and rewarded and come right up to you. Hedgehogs have an 8–10-year lifespan.
How do you take care of your pet hedgehog?
Spend money on veterinary care. A hedgehog-savvy veterinarian may work with you to make sure your pet lives well for a long time. On visits, your veterinarian will:
1: Verify that your pet behaves in a way consistent with their breed.
2: Inquire about their living conditions and cages.
3: Discuss with you the best way to feed your new pet and the potential benefits of preventative care.
4: Verify general health metrics such as respiration, blood pressure, and heart rate.
5: Discuss with them how to clean their teeth, as hedgehogs are highly susceptible to dental issues.
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