Experts are warning against keeping hedgehogs as pets. Despite their cute and curious nature, hedgehogs are not suitable pets for several reasons including being illegal in some places, not domesticated animals, requiring specialized care and being a health risk because they can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans. If you already have a hedgehog as a pet, it’s important to provide specialized care including a specific diet, appropriate shelter, keeping them away from other pets and children, and regularly checking their health with a veterinarian experienced with hedgehogs.
Experts Warn Against Keeping Hedgehogs as Pets
More and more people are keeping hedgehogs as pets these days, but experts are warning against this trend.
Why are people keeping hedgehogs as pets?
Hedgehogs are cute and curious creatures, and many people are intrigued by the idea of keeping one as a pet. They are also relatively easy to care for, and they don’t require as much attention as some other pets, such as dogs or cats.
Why is keeping hedgehogs as pets a bad idea?
Despite their cute and curious nature, hedgehogs are not suitable pets for several reasons:
- Illegal in some places: In some states and countries, it’s illegal to keep hedgehogs as pets. Before considering getting one, check with your local authorities.
- Not domesticated: Unlike dogs and cats, hedgehogs are not domesticated animals. They are wild animals and they have specific needs that are difficult to meet in a home environment.
- Require specialized care: Hedgehogs require specialized care to thrive. They need a specific diet, temperature, and environment to stay healthy. It’s difficult to provide this care in a home environment.
- Health risks: Hedgehogs can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans, such as Salmonella. They also have sharp spines that can injure their owners or other pets.
What should you do if you already have a hedgehog as a pet?
If you already have a hedgehog as a pet, it’s important to provide the best possible care and environment for it. Here are some tips:
- Provide a specialized diet: Hedgehogs need a specific diet that includes a variety of foods, such as insects, fruits, and vegetables. Talk to your veterinarian to make sure your hedgehog is getting the right nutrition.
- Provide appropriate shelter: Hedgehogs need a warm, dry, and spacious environment to thrive. Make sure their shelter is clean, comfortable, and has access to food, water, and a hiding spot.
- Keep them away from other pets and children: Hedgehogs can be easily stressed and they can lash out with their sharp spines. It’s important to keep them away from other pets and children to avoid injury.
- Regular vet check-ups: Hedgehogs need regular check-ups to monitor their health and prevent or treat any health issues that may arise. Find a veterinarian who is experienced with hedgehogs.
FAQs
Are hedgehogs good pets?
No, hedgehogs are not good pets. They are wild animals and they require specialized care that is difficult to provide in a home environment.
Can I keep a hedgehog as a pet?
It depends on where you live. In some states and countries, it’s illegal to keep hedgehogs as pets. Check with your local authorities before considering getting one.
What do hedgehogs eat?
Hedgehogs need a specific diet that includes insects, fruits, and vegetables. Talk to your veterinarian to make sure your hedgehog is getting the right nutrition.
Do hedgehogs make good pets for children?
No, hedgehogs are not suitable pets for children. They are easily stressed and they can lash out with their sharp spines, causing injury.
Can hedgehogs carry diseases?
Yes, hedgehogs can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans, such as Salmonella.
