Things to Consider Before Getting a Hedgehog As a Pet
Things to Consider Before Getting a Hedgehog As a Pet
Hedgehogs are cute, inquisitive and endearing little creatures and can make great pets, but before you head off to the pet shop and get one, make sure that you know a bit about them. Here are a few things you need to consider first.
As with any pet, you have to make sure you have the time to devote to your little pet. Hedgehogs are naturally inquisitive and very active animals with special needs. You will have to provide your hedgehog with an appropriate cage, veterinary care should the need arise, a healthy diet and lots of care and attention. If you don't have the time to do these essential things, then a hedgehog may not be the right pet for you.
The first thing you should do before bringing a hedgehog home is to prepare a cage for your hedgehog. As hedgehogs are very active, a minimum sized cage of about 4 square feet should be provided. Hedgehogs love to climb and burrow so be sure to provide ample opportunity for this such as providing an exercise wheel and ladders. Toys and paper to shred will also keep your hedgehog entertained and prevent boredom.
Your hedgehog's cage should ideally be placed in a quiet, draft free area of the house. Drafts can make your pet very ill. Because hedgehogs are very sensitive to sound, make sure your pet is kept away from sources of sounds such as the TV. Never place your hedgehog's cage too close to a radiator as this can cause overheating and can be potentially fatal.
You will need to let your hedgehog out of its cage for exercise and to interact with it. Hedgehogs can be quite affectionate and will follow you around like a dog. A hedgehog that is left in its cage all the time will become depressed, apathetic and eventually unhealthy. Hedgehogs can't be house trained so keep this in mind before getting one.
Once you're ready to buy a hedgehog, you should decide whether you're going to get one from a breeder or a pet shop. Whichever you choose, make sure they are able to give you information on the upkeep and care of your new pet. The hedgehogs should look healthy and active and if there are any droppings in the cage make sure they are firm. If there are any runny green droppings, this is a sign that the animals are not healthy. The animal's eyes should be bright, the nose should be slightly moist and free of discharge and you shouldn't hear any wheezing sounds.
If you plan properly and use common sense you should receive many years of enjoyment from your new pet. Hedgehogs make fascinating and interesting pets if you know how to take proper care of them. Why a Hamster is a Great Pet Cheap Party Appetizers: How to Hold It? Pet Meds for Keeping Fleas at Bay Dog Diarrhea: Why does it Happen? Dog Gone Fun At Doggy Day Care Choosing A Pet: What To Consider Part (3) A journey to make to get past St Peter at the gates Enjoy the Peace of Mind of Pet Insurance Cat Insurance Provides Financial Peace of Mind Dog Insurance - Choosing a Policy Covering Your Exotic Pet with an Exotic Pet Insurance Policy Pharmacists Need Competency It Appears Unbelievable That You Can Uncover What To Count on From Pet Insurance Comparison