Getting Ready for a Hedgehog: Things to Know

November 11, 2013 Meg 4539 Views hedgehog care, hedgehog habitat

Once you’ve decided that a hedgehog will be a good fit for you, it’s time to set up his new home!

Here, we’ll walk you through the decisions you must make and how to prepare the proper cage setup.

Male or Female?

One of your first decisions is whether you want a male or female hedgehog.

According to most breeders, they don’t see any significant temperament differences between genders; this means they have similar personality types.

Regardless of what they say, this might be important for you.

The main deciding factor should be whether you want to have multiple hedgehogs housed together, which could be challenging.

If so, I believe a female is a way to go as they tend to be more gentle with human presence.

Female hedgehogs are known to cohabitate better than males and sometimes even prefer to have a cage mate.

Males are not suggested to be put together in the same cage, as some aggression could be possible due to territory.

Deciding Where to Buy a Hedgehog

After deciding what hedgehog gender would fit best for you, you need to think if buying a hedgehog is a good idea.

There are two (2) main options:

– Pet stores. Careful that, in some countries, they are restricted or illegal to trade.

– Hedgehog breeders, which in my opinion, it is better for you and the animal.

Hedgehog breeders are typically the best option as you would know they have been kept safe, well-treated, and healthy; most importantly, breeders will guarantee they are not illegally traded (unless restricted by law).

On the other hand, to help you choose the right option, we’ve compiled a complete resource page on where to buy a hedgehog.

Ask the Right Questions

When you start to research hedgehog breeders and pet stores in your area, you must ask them some questions to ensure they are from a reputable place.

Read More: Questions to Ask Hedgehog Breeders.

Also, you’ll want to ensure that the hedgehog has been raised under the right conditions. This also includes:

– To find out if they have the appropriate licensing to operate.

– They are familiar and knowledgeable with African Pygmy hedgehogs characteristics, and,

– To receive extra advice on how to care for them properly while they settle at home.

We’ve compiled a list of essential questions to ask breeders and the expected answers, which you can check out here.

Preparing Their New Habitat

Your pet hedgehog will spend most of its time in its cage, so it is essential to choose the right type and set it up correctly.

The cage should include a comfortable sleeping arrangement and good play and food areas.

Read More: Preparing a Hedgehog Cage and Habitat.

Our hedgehog cage and habitat article covers all the alternatives, pricing, and supplies required to fill the cage with the correct elements for a comfortable and safe environment.

Understand How to Take Care of Your Hedgehog

Next, you’ll want to become comfortable with the types and amount of care required when owning a pet hedgehog.

You’ll need to provide food and clean water daily, clean his cage regularly (once or twice a week, depending on your judgment), and even clip his nails.

You will be surprised that it is not that complicated if you compare the process with caring for cats.

In addition, you should allow them to have some time out of the cage – it could be around 30 minutes per day – as well as learn how to make them feel comfortable in their new environment.

To know all about caring for a pet hedgehog, check here.

Bringing Them Home

The final step is getting ready to bring them home. Check out our guide to bringing a hedgehog home, which includes preparing their carrier cage, requesting a supply of relevant and acceptable food, and beginning the bonding process.