Hedgehogs as Pets
May 24th 2009 14:42
Hedgehogs are not the perfect pet for everyone, so before you get one, you need to make sure that you are ready to have a hedgehog as a pet. It's best that you do your research so that you can avoid having to give up your pet because you get bored with it or tired of caring for it after a few weeks or a few months.
Disadvantages to having a pet hedgehog:
* It's cute. Just because it's cute, it doesn't mean that you have to have it, and if that's your only reason, then you don't need a hedgehog as a pet. Pets equal responsibility.
* They don't play fetch, games, or anything at all. Hedgehogs prefer to just eat and run around. You won't find a hedgehog who will cuddle up to or play game.
* They will bite you when they're upset, and because they have sharp teeth, it can be a little painful. Even socialized hedgehogs will bite under certain circumstances, especially if you ignore the huffing and puffing that signal irritation.
* They have short lifespans of only three to five years, so if you're looking for something that lives a little longer, then you'll have to find another pet.
* They can be expensive, depending on the breeder and the color or pattern that you choose, and for only three to five years of companionship, you'll have to weigh if the $200 or more will be worth it.
Advantages of having a pet hedgehog:
* They're plain cute, which is the obvious factor in wanting a hedgehog.
* They don't spread dander, which is great for people who may have cat and dog allergies. You may find that you're allergic to a hedgehog related supply, like the bedding or food, but you will not have a reaction to the animal, itself.
* They are quiet. You may hear them breathing heavily, scuffling noises as they walk around, or noises from a hedgehog running on his wheel, but for the most part, they're pretty quiet.
* They are small, which makes them great for apartments and rental homes that only allow small pets. Just remember that just because they're small, it doesn't mean that they can thrive in a small cage.
Disadvantages to having a pet hedgehog:
* It's cute. Just because it's cute, it doesn't mean that you have to have it, and if that's your only reason, then you don't need a hedgehog as a pet. Pets equal responsibility.
* They don't play fetch, games, or anything at all. Hedgehogs prefer to just eat and run around. You won't find a hedgehog who will cuddle up to or play game.
* They will bite you when they're upset, and because they have sharp teeth, it can be a little painful. Even socialized hedgehogs will bite under certain circumstances, especially if you ignore the huffing and puffing that signal irritation.
* They have short lifespans of only three to five years, so if you're looking for something that lives a little longer, then you'll have to find another pet.
* They can be expensive, depending on the breeder and the color or pattern that you choose, and for only three to five years of companionship, you'll have to weigh if the $200 or more will be worth it.
Advantages of having a pet hedgehog:
* They're plain cute, which is the obvious factor in wanting a hedgehog.
* They don't spread dander, which is great for people who may have cat and dog allergies. You may find that you're allergic to a hedgehog related supply, like the bedding or food, but you will not have a reaction to the animal, itself.
* They are quiet. You may hear them breathing heavily, scuffling noises as they walk around, or noises from a hedgehog running on his wheel, but for the most part, they're pretty quiet.
* They are small, which makes them great for apartments and rental homes that only allow small pets. Just remember that just because they're small, it doesn't mean that they can thrive in a small cage.
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