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HEDGEHOGS
General Information
They are mammals whose entire back is covered with spines. Unlike porcupines, they do not throw their spines. The spines are sharp and can injure owners. As a defense mechanism, hedgehogs "ball up" exposing their spiny backsides. Because they often "ball up" owners may not be able to handle them and play with them like other pets.
In the wild, hedgehogs eat insects. Their life expectancy is about 10 years. During the day, hedgehogs burrow and sleep most of the time; hedgehogs are nocturnal pets in the wild.
A. Hedgehogs have a keen sense of hearing.
B. Hedgehogs are covered with sharp spines on its backside.
C. Frightened hedgehogs may hiss or spit and "ball up".
D. Hedgehogs will hibernate if the environmental temperature falls below 60 degrees. Hedgehogs do not need to hibernate and many veterinarians recommend against hibernation as problems with disease can occur if the hedgehogs are not healthy prior to hibernation or if hibernation does not proceed correctly. Talk
with your doctor about whether or not you should allow your hedgehog to hibernate.
Hedgehogs have a lower body temperature (95 degrees F or 35 degrees C) than most mammals.
Getting Your Pet
Hedgehogs are usually purchased at pet shops or through breeders. As with any pet purchase, avoid hedgehogs that appear ill. Hedgehogs should be bright and alert, and move quickly when startled. Avoid pets with closed eyes or discharge from the eyes or nose. As they readily "ball up" when disturbed, it may be difficult to inspect them closely. If possible, check the ears for redness or excess wax, which might indicate an infection. Check the mouth for broken teeth or red and inflamed gums. The pet should neither feel fat nor thin; you should be able to feel the ribs with just a small amount of fat over them. Check the anal area for diarrhea or moistness, which might indicate a gastrointestinal infection. The spines should be free of excess scaliness.
First Veterinary Visit
Your hedgehog should come with a health guarantee that requires a checkup by a veterinarian with a few days (usually 48 hours) after purchase. All pets including hedgehogs need regular veterinary examinations. Select a doctor knowledgeable about hedgehogs.
The visit includes determining the animal's weight, as well as checking for lumps or bumps. The animal is examined for signs of dehydration and starvation. A fecal test is test is done to check for internal parasites. The veterinarian can also determine the sex of your pet. If all turns out well, your pet will be given a clean bill of health. Like all pets, pet hedgehogs should be examined annually and have their feces tested for parasites during the annual visit.
Housing pet hedgehog
The cage should allow a lot of movement by the hedgehog. Walls must be high enough to prevent escape. Some owners use a glass aquarium; others use dog or cat carriers or cages suitable for rabbits or ferrets. Care should be used if wire-bottom cages are provided as the hedgehog can easily injure a foot in the wire; the wire bottom must be thoroughly covered (as with Plexiglas).
Hedgehogs are very susceptible to extremes in temperature. Heat stroke is possible with temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit may induce hibernation, which is not recommended due to problems with disease.
While hedgehogs can be housed in groups, fights can occur, especially if adequate space is not available. For this reason, most owners choose to house only one pet per cage.
Cages should be cleaned at least weekly, with soap and water (rinse well), or when they become dirty as hedgehogs are susceptible to skin irritations from urine and feces.
What Toys?
A hiding box, such as a cardboard box or plastic flowerpot, works well. Chew toys can also be placed in the cage, although they are not necessary. The smallest piece of the toy should be too big to be swallowed by the hedgehog.
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