DO HEDGEHOGS MAKE GOOD PETS? 7 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW.

Let's take a look at a few things you should know before considering keeping a hedgehog as a pet.

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Hedgehogs seems to have a lot of personalities and a great sense of self-preservation. But hedgehogs are much more complex than they appear.

One research study has estimated that hedgehogs are about as smart as a two-year-old child. 

How Intelligent is a Hedgehog?

Hedgehogs are very communicative when it comes to their needs and often make a low purring sound when they are happy or content.

Hedgehogs can be aggressive if they perceive that they are being threatened. Here are the 7 things you should know about Hedgehogs.

Pet hedgehogs tend to be African pygmy hedgehogs. Despite this, they have been bred in cages and are considered domesticated. But make sure the cage is large enough.

1. You can keep hedgehogs as pets

2. Hedgehogs can be a bit prickly.

Hedgehog's entire back is covered with sharp spines. They can use these spines as a defensive weapon. So, its better to use gloves while handling a nervous hedgehog.

3. Hedgehogs Cover Themselves with Spit.

Usually, hedgehogs do this when they discover a new scent. It can make the hedgehog tough to handle for a while. They may do this to hide from predators.

Hedgehogs sleep in the daytime. In general, they are awake at night, which protects them from predators and allows them to hunt for food.

4. Hedgehogs are Nocturnal Animals.

This schedule is also observed in domesticated Hedgehogs. During the day, they sleep most of the time and spend the night running around in their home.

5. Prone to Obesity

When Hedgehogs are bored, they tend to eat more, leading to weight gain. It may lead to obesity if they are left in a cage for long periods.

Hedgehogs are not quiet creatures, and they can make some interesting sounds. They used to communicate through snorting and grunting noises.

6. They are Extremely Vocal.

When upset, they also make clicking or hissing noises and purring noises when they are happy. Their vocal range is much louder than that of many pet animals.

Hedgehogs can form very close bonds with their owners. You can make your hedgehog lovable if you spend time with it and interact.

7. Hedgehogs develop strong bonds with their owners.

Some hedgehogs form strong bonds with their owners when they smell their owner's scent nearby. Initially, hedgehogs are scared of human beings.

Most hedgehogs do start fearful of their owners and humans in general. Hedgehogs need to be socialized and handled to relax. You can make them a reasonably loving pet if you have patience.