🏡 Introduction: The Rise of the Pet Hedgehog

With their tiny noses, prickly backs, and curious personalities, hedgehogs have become trendy exotic pets in recent years. But many potential owners still ask, “Are hedgehogs good pets?”

The answer? It depends. Hedgehogs can be amazing companions, but they also require very specific care, handling, and housing.

✅ Are Hedgehogs Good Pets? Pros & Benefits

Let’s explore what makes hedgehogs appealing:

🌟 Pros of Owning a Hedgehog:

• Low odor: Clean and not prone to strong smells

• Compact size: Ideal for apartments or small spaces

• Unique appearance: Adorable and attention-grabbing

• Quiet: Great for people who want a calm, non-vocal pet

• Nocturnal: Perfect for night owls

• Hypoallergenic: No fur, minimal allergens

Many owners report a strong bond with their hedgie once trust is built.

⚠️ Cons of Having a Pet Hedgehog

While they have upsides, hedgehogs aren’t for everyone.

🚫 Potential Downsides:

• Nocturnal behavior: Active at night; noisy wheel use

• Difficult to bond with: Some never fully warm up to humans

• Temperature-sensitive: Require specific warmth (72–80°F)

• May bite or ball up when scared

• Exotic vet care is expensive

• Illegal in some states

So, are hedgehogs good pets for kids or first-time owners? Maybe not for everyone.

📍 Where Are Hedgehogs Legal in the U.S.?

✅ Legal States:

Most U.S. states allow hedgehogs as pets.

🚫 Illegal or Restricted States (as of 2024):

• California ❌

• Georgia ❌

• Hawaii ❌

• Pennsylvania ❌

• New York City ❌

• Washington, D.C. ❌

Always check with your local wildlife department or vet before adopting.

🧽 Daily Hedgehog Care Checklist

📝 Deep clean the enclosure weekly and change bedding fully.

🛖 Cage Size, Substrate & Setup Guide

Hedgehogs need a clean, warm, and enriched environment.

🏠 Recommended Cage:

• Minimum Size: 2 x 3 ft (larger is better)

• Bar spacing: ≤1 inch

• Escape-proof lid

🧱 Substrate Options:

• Fleece liners (reusable, soft)

• Paper-based bedding (odor control)

• Avoid: Pine, cedar, or dusty litter

🧸 Enclosure Must-Haves:

• Exercise wheel (solid surface)

• Hideout or igloo

• Food & water dishes

• Heat source (ceramic bulb or pad)

📸 ALT: “hedgehog cage with fleece bedding and hideout”

🥕 What Do Hedgehogs Eat? Diet Breakdown

A balanced diet keeps your hedgehog healthy and active.

🥗 Main Diet:

• High-protein, low-fat insectivore kibble (exotic pet stores)

• Cooked chicken, scrambled eggs (occasionally)

• Live insects: Mealworms, crickets, waxworms

🍎 Fruits & Veggies (in moderation):

• Apples, carrots, bananas, berries

• Avoid grapes, citrus, and raw potatoes

❌ Do NOT Feed:

• Milk/dairy

• Sugary snacks

• Raw meat

• Seeds or nuts

🏥 Hedgehog Health & Common Problems

🩺 Watch for:

• Mites (itching, hair loss)

• Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS)

• Obesity (common if overfed or inactive)

• Dental disease

• Dry skin

🧪 Vet Tips:

• Find a certified exotic pet vet

• Annual wellness exams recommended

• Emergency care may be hard to find locally

🔗 Read: How to Find the Best Exotic Pet Vets Near You

💬 Are Hedgehogs Social or Solitary?

• Hedgehogs are solitary animals

• Don’t house them together—they may fight

• Some enjoy gentle handling once trust is built

• Use treats and calm tones to create a bond

With time and patience, most hedgehogs tolerate and even enjoy short social interactions.

🧠 Is a Hedgehog Right for You?

Ask yourself:

• Am I okay with a nocturnal pet?

• Can I afford exotic vet care?

• Is it legal where I live?

• Do I have time for daily spot cleaning and bonding?

If yes, and you’re ready to commit, hedgehogs can be a quiet, unique, and rewarding companion.

❓ FAQs

Q: Are hedgehogs good pets for kids?

Not ideal. Their sharp quills and stress levels don’t mix well with rough handling.

Q: Do hedgehogs smell?

No, if cleaned regularly. Spot-clean daily and do full cage clean weekly.

Q: Do hedgehogs bite?

They can, but it’s rare. Biting is usually from fear, not aggression.

Q: Can hedgehogs be potty trained?

Somewhat. Many learn to use a corner for waste, but it’s not guaranteed.

Q: How long do pet hedgehogs live?

Average lifespan is 4–6 years, sometimes longer with excellent care.

✅ Conclusion: Are Hedgehogs Good Pets? It Depends on You

So, are hedgehogs good pets? For quiet, patient owners who can meet their care needs and provide a warm, enriched enclosure—yes, they’re wonderful!

But they aren’t cuddle bugs, and they require commitment, vet access, and legal clarity.

🐾 Learn more about exotic pet care, housing, and diet at Rare Pet Haven