Hedgehogs might look like tiny, spiky bundles of joy, but don’t let their cuteness fool you. They make terrible pets.
Sure, those beady eyes and wiggly noses are hard to resist, but behind that adorable exterior is an animal that really doesn’t want to be cuddled. They’re nocturnal, antisocial, and surprisingly high-maintenance—basically, the opposite of what most people expect.
Want a pet that loves attention? Too bad. Hedgehogs prefer to roll into a defensive ball of spikes rather than hang out with you. Hoping for a low-maintenance companion? Get ready for weird diets, temperature control issues, and—let’s be honest—some pretty smelly surprises.
Still tempted? Before you make a decision you’ll regret, check out these 12 reasons why hedgehogs do not belong in your home.
Nocturnal Nature
Hedgehogs are predominantly nocturnal, meaning they are active during the night and sleep during the day. This can be quite disruptive for families who are active during daytime hours, as they may miss out on interactive moments with their pet.
Moreover, the nocturnal habits often lead to hedgehogs making noise throughout the night, which can disturb the sleep of light sleepers. The night-time activity requires patience and understanding from owners, who must adapt to this unique rhythm.
Because of this, hedgehogs are not ideal for people seeking a pet they can engage with during regular waking hours.
Specialized Diet
Hedgehogs require a specialized diet that can be challenging to provide. In the wild, they eat a range of insects, fruits, and other small creatures, which is difficult to replicate in a typical household setting.
Owners must carefully select high-quality pellets and supplement with live insects like mealworms, which can be off-putting for some. Additionally, the dietary needs change with age and health, requiring continuous research and adaptation.
Meeting these nutritional requirements demands attention and effort, and failing to do so can lead to serious health issues for the hedgehog.
Hibernation Risks
Hedgehogs are susceptible to hibernation if their environment becomes too cold, which can be life-threatening. Unlike other animals, hedgehog hibernation is not a natural occurrence but a response to inadequate conditions.
Owners must carefully monitor the temperature of their pet’s habitat, keeping it between 75-85°F. This requires investment in quality heating and monitoring equipment.
The risk of hibernation adds a layer of complexity to hedgehog care, making them unsuitable for owners who may not be prepared for such precise environmental management.
Solitary Animals
Hedgehogs are solitary creatures and prefer to live alone. Unlike social pets, they do not thrive in group settings, which can be disappointing for those seeking interactive pet experiences.
Introducing a new hedgehog to another can lead to stress and aggression, potentially resulting in injury. Owners should provide a habitat that respects their need for solitude with plenty of hiding spaces.
This aspect of their nature means hedgehogs might not provide the companionship some pet owners desire, as they are often uninterested in interaction with humans or other animals.
Complex Habitat Needs
Creating a suitable habitat for a hedgehog involves more than just a cage. They need a complex environment that includes appropriate bedding, hiding spots, exercise wheels, and enrichment toys to keep them mentally stimulated.
Proper ventilation and temperature control are crucial, as hedgehogs can easily become stressed if their needs are not met. This requires a dedicated space in the home that mimics their natural habitat.
The effort and expense involved in setting up and maintaining such an environment may deter prospective owners who are unprepared for this level of commitment.
Limited Affection
Hedgehogs are not known for being affectionate animals. While some may tolerate gentle handling, they rarely seek out attention and may even resist interaction.
Their spiky exterior is not just for show; it serves as a protective mechanism that can make handling uncomfortable for both pet and owner. This often results in a lack of bonding that one might experience with more social pets.
For individuals looking for a pet with whom they can share mutual affection, hedgehogs may not fulfill that desire, as their demeanor is generally reserved and independent.
Legal Restrictions
In some regions, owning a hedgehog as a pet is illegal or requires special permits. These legal restrictions are due to concerns about them becoming invasive species or carrying diseases.
Potential owners must research local laws and regulations regarding hedgehog ownership, which can vary significantly from place to place.
This legal complexity adds another hurdle for someone considering bringing a hedgehog into their home, as violating these laws can result in fines or the removal of the pet.
Health Issues
Hedgehogs can suffer from a range of health issues, including obesity, dental problems, and skin diseases like mites. Detecting these conditions requires vigilance, as hedgehogs often mask their illnesses until they’re severe.
Regular veterinary care is essential to maintain a hedgehog’s health, but finding an experienced vet can be challenging and costly.
Prospective owners must be prepared for the time and financial commitment involved in ensuring their hedgehog remains healthy, which can be significant compared to other small pets.
Short Lifespan
Hedgehogs typically live between 3 to 5 years, which is considerably shorter than many other household pets. This brief lifespan can be emotionally difficult for owners who form strong attachments to their pets.
The short time together means that owners must be prepared for the inevitable end of life, which can come sooner than expected.
This can be particularly challenging for families with children, as they must navigate the complexities of pet loss more frequently than with longer-lived animals.
Expensive Care
Caring for a hedgehog can be more expensive than anticipated. Initial costs include the habitat setup, which must be specialized and enriched, while ongoing expenses include high-quality food and veterinary care.
These costs can add up quickly, making hedgehogs less affordable than other small pets. Unexpected expenses, such as vet bills for sudden illnesses, can also strain budgets.
Prospective owners should be financially prepared to invest in their hedgehog’s health and wellbeing, understanding that the costs involved can be significant.
Sensitive to Stress
Hedgehogs are sensitive to stress, which can manifest in behaviors like curling up tightly or hissing. They thrive in calm environments and can become anxious if exposed to loud noises or frequent disturbances.
This sensitivity makes them unsuitable for noisy households or environments where they cannot find respite. Owners must create a tranquil space that supports the hedgehog’s wellbeing.
Failure to do so can result in a range of health and behavioral issues, making hedgehogs a challenging pet for those unable to provide a serene living situation.
Allergy Potential
Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to hedgehogs, which can include sneezing, itching, or skin irritation. These allergies may be triggered by the hedgehog itself or the bedding material used in their habitat.
Prospective owners should spend time with hedgehogs before committing to ownership to ensure they do not have allergic reactions. This precaution can prevent future discomfort and health issues.
Understanding the potential for allergies is crucial, as managing these can become an additional burden for owners, reducing the enjoyment of having a hedgehog as a pet.