similarities to hamsters and rabbits

[lbityk]

I have had a variety of pets over the years, dogs, cats, rabbits, and hamsters. I am very interested in adding a hedgie to my family and was wondering what I can expect. Is having a hedgie very similar to a hamster, are they more/less friendly, do hedgies bond with you PERSONALLY as more then a food source? Any stories or comments on the differences and similarities will be MUCH appreciated. Thanks!!:wave3:

 

[Kalandra]

I find it near impossible to compare a hedgehog to anything; they are just kinda in a world of their own. Some hedgehogs are friendlier than others; some are downright shy and defensive. Some bond very closely with their humans and others couldn’t care less about us. Each hedgehog I’ve had in the last 14 years has been extremely different from any other I’ve met or owned. Yes they have some similarities but they have such a wide variety of possible personality traits that no two are ever anywhere near alike.
Your best bet is to read through these forums for stories we tell to get an idea of what life is like with a hedgehog. Or it may be easier for us to help you determine if a hedgehog is the right pet if you tell us what you are looking for in a pet.

 

[Stephanie76]

I have owned rabbits, guinea pigs, cats, and a dog and I must agree fully with Kalandra. Hogs are completely different from the rest. I have two right now, and both are extremely different. My girl is very loving and adores attention, where my boy isn't fond of cuddle time and is much more independent. I have noticed that hedgehog require more patience then rodents (in my opinion) and they should also be more respected for what they are. If someone wants a little snuggle-ball o' quills, this is not your pet. Also, because my boy is tempermental and grouchy 99.999999999% of the time, that means if I want to bond with him, I meet him on his terms (which usually requires dim lighting, blanket to cover him up, slow movements and quiet voices). . I handle him nightly for an hour to two hours and he requires much more patience and more attention because he is the way he is... He has loosened up quite a bit, but he is still just my little spine-ball.


They are nocturnal. Again, this poses the whole "respect" issue because you will have to get them out to play on *their* schedule. : )

Another bit, these guys have to be kept in a warm room. Warm meaning between 72-78 degrees Farenheit. If they are not kept in a warm room, they can go into hibernation which can be deadly for our little ones.

As with a lot of animals, hedgehogs also require a very close eye be kept on them to check for signs of illness (hedgehogs are GREAT at hiding it!).

Pogs are a very interesting pet. :>

 

[Kalandra]

Stephanie, you brought up a great point. Something I tend to forget to tell people. I've had hedgehogs for so long its just what I do now, but you really do have to meet them on their own terms. They will train you to do things, not the other way around.

 

[JenLovesQuills]

I agree with all of the above advice. Each hedgehog has his or her own unique personality. They are certainly not a pet for everyone and I think they require more care than people might originally think. As pets, they also come with certain quirks such as pooing in their wheel and then running in it for example. They aren't difficult pets to care for necessarily, but adjusting to having them as a pet is certainly a transition. I hope that makes sense!