Really skittish new hedgie!

Piglesnout · Oct 15, 2011

Hey guys! I'm new here

dont hate!

So, I got my first hedgehog yesterday. I've owned rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, and chinchillas before, and my hedgie is completely different from them. When I got them, I could pet them, and they'd be fine. My new hedge, Mr. Pricklesworth, is completely different. He spikes up into a ball whenever he sees my hand, and is really skittish! I was wondering what a solution would be so that he would be a little less scared. Anything, really would help. And remember, I'm new to hedgehogs! Whatever you say will be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
Wesley

Kalandra · Oct 15, 2011

Time and patience. It can take a hedgehog a while to get used to you. I have one at the moment who was very socialized and is quite friendly, but she is still very new to my home and is still trying to figure me out. She still quills up on me if I do something that is new or something she isn't certain about.

You can also take a t-shirt, wear it for a while, then give it to him to sleep in. It will help him become familiar with your smell.

But for the most part, spent lots of time with him, don't be too pushy, and let him get to know that you are ok. Hedgehogs are very different from other animals, and they require a lot of respect for their own wishes as well as patience to let them get to know you.

Piglesnout · Oct 16, 2011

Awesome info, thanks!

Today, he warmed up to me a ton. I figured out that rubbing the fur on his sides just under his quills makes him unroll - is that alright? Should i be doing that, or not - he unrolls of his own accord, and proceeds to sniff around, so im not really forcing anything. just want to make sure its alright / healthy!

Thanks!

Nancy · Oct 16, 2011

It's fine to rub the fur on his sides or anywhere else he allows you to. Some of them love being stroked on their sides, faces, chin, belly etc. It all depends on the individual hedgehog what they will like and tolerate. Sounds like you are doing well.

Piglesnout · Oct 16, 2011

Thanks!

good to know

Now, another question! I got him some mealworms. Unfortunately, he isn't eating them. He, still doesn't trust me, since I've only had him for a few days, but he doesn't trust me so much that he doesn't even take mealworms when I give him treats! What should I do to get him to take some from me. I read up that it's a form of bonding to have him on your lap and give him a treat or two, but I can't, since he doesn't take them! What do you suggest? Thanks

charlie · Oct 16, 2011

Treats in the first few weeks are usually not a good idea (too soon to bug their tummies). Try again in a few weeks, after he is fully settled in. Sometimes it takes several tries before they'll enjoy mealies. Try first giving them to him in a separate bowl in his cage so perhaps he can brave it on his own. Once he develops a taste for it you can offer it to him when he is out (though I recommend always using a bowl so he doesn't think your fingers always have treats). Sometimes however, they just don't like mealies. In a few weeks you can also try other things like chicken, salmon, steamed carrot, papaya. He may like these better than mealies and should be offered as a supplement to his crunchy food anyway. Occasionally we come across hogs that like kibble and that is all, but try again soon.