Is It Safe to Pick Up a Hedgehog? A Prickly Predicament
It’s generally safe to pick up a hedgehog, but you must do so carefully and with proper precautions to avoid injury to yourself and minimize stress to the hedgehog. Careful handling is key to a positive experience.
Understanding Hedgehogs: More Than Just Cute Spines
Hedgehogs, with their distinctive coat of spines, are increasingly popular pets, although they also thrive in the wild across several continents. Their unique appearance naturally raises questions about handling. While undeniably adorable, their defenses require understanding and respect. Understanding their behavior and needs is crucial before even considering picking one up.
Why You Might Want to Handle a Hedgehog
While hedgehogs aren’t cuddly in the traditional sense, there are legitimate reasons to pick one up:
- Health Checks: Regular handling allows you to inspect your hedgehog for signs of illness, injury, or parasites.
- Bonding: Gentle, consistent handling can help a pet hedgehog become more comfortable with you, building trust.
- Cage Cleaning: Obviously, you need to move the hedgehog to clean its habitat.
- Veterinary Visits: Transporting your hedgehog to the vet requires safe handling.
- Rescuing a Wild Hedgehog: If you find an injured or orphaned wild hedgehog, you might need to pick it up to provide assistance. (Consult a wildlife rehabilitator first!)
The Correct Way to Pick Up a Hedgehog: A Step-by-Step Guide
Picking up a hedgehog requires patience and a gentle approach. Here’s how:
- Approach Calmly: Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the hedgehog.
- Offer a Scent: Let the hedgehog smell your hand before attempting to touch it. This allows it to identify you.
- Gentle Scooping: Slide your hands under the hedgehog’s belly, supporting its weight. Avoid grabbing or squeezing. If the hedgehog balls up, wait patiently for it to relax slightly before attempting to lift it.
- Wear Gloves (Optional): If you’re nervous about being pricked or the hedgehog is particularly defensive, consider wearing thick gloves. This will provide a layer of protection.
- Hold Securely: Once lifted, keep the hedgehog close to your body for stability. Avoid sudden movements that could cause it to fall.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Improper handling can be stressful and even dangerous for hedgehogs:
- Startling the Hedgehog: Sudden movements and loud noises can cause a hedgehog to ball up defensively.
- Grabbing or Squeezing: This can injure the hedgehog.
- Dropping the Hedgehog: Hedgehogs are not built for falls.
- Ignoring the Hedgehog’s Signals: If the hedgehog is hissing, huffing, or biting, it’s telling you it’s uncomfortable.
- Forcing Interaction: Don’t force a hedgehog to be handled if it’s consistently resistant.
Safety Considerations: Thorns and More
While generally not poisonous, hedgehog spines are sharp. Though not likely to break the skin, a prick can be uncomfortable, hence the cautious approach recommended. Wild hedgehogs might carry parasites like fleas or ticks; appropriate precautions (like washing your hands after handling) are necessary. Additionally, hedgehogs can carry diseases like Salmonella, so hygiene is paramount.
Dealing with Balling Up and Hissing
A defensive hedgehog will often curl into a tight ball, raising its spines. Hissing and huffing are other common defensive behaviors. The best course of action is to remain calm and patient. Gently place the hedgehog back down and try again later. Never try to force a hedgehog to uncurl.
Picking up a wild Hedgehog
If you find a sick or injured wild hedgehog, you should call a wildlife rescue organisation, or animal charity, for the best guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it safe to pick up a hedgehog without gloves?
Yes, it is safe to pick up a hedgehog without gloves, but it requires caution. Some people prefer to wear gloves for added protection against the spines, especially when first getting to know a hedgehog. However, with a gentle and confident approach, you can usually handle a hedgehog bare-handed. Remember to approach calmly and support the hedgehog’s weight properly.
What if a hedgehog bites me?
Hedgehog bites, while rare, can happen. If a hedgehog bites you, immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Monitor for signs of infection, and consult a doctor if necessary. Most bites are minor, but proper hygiene is essential.
How often should I handle my pet hedgehog?
Aim for regular, short handling sessions to help your hedgehog become accustomed to you. Start with just a few minutes each day, gradually increasing the time as your hedgehog becomes more comfortable. Consistency is key.
What do I do if my hedgehog is constantly defensive and won’t let me pick it up?
Some hedgehogs are naturally more nervous than others. Try offering treats or mealworms from your hand to build positive associations with you. Be patient and consistent, and avoid forcing interaction. Consult a veterinarian or experienced hedgehog owner for further guidance.
Are baby hedgehogs easier to handle than adults?
Baby hedgehogs, or hoglets, can be initially easier to handle due to their smaller size, but they still require a gentle approach. Start handling them young to accustom them to human contact. Keep handling sessions short and positive.
Can I get sick from handling a hedgehog?
Yes, hedgehogs can carry Salmonella and other zoonotic diseases. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling a hedgehog or cleaning its cage. Avoid touching your face while handling a hedgehog.
How do I know if a wild hedgehog needs help?
Signs that a wild hedgehog needs help include: visible injuries, being underweight or emaciated, being out during the day (hedgehogs are nocturnal), or being unresponsive. If you find a hedgehog exhibiting these signs, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator.
Can I pick up a hedgehog from the road to move it to safety?
If you find a hedgehog on the road, you can carefully move it to safety, but take precautions. Wear gloves if possible and move the hedgehog in the direction it was heading, not back the way it came. Place it in a safe location away from traffic.
What is “anointing,” and is it harmful?
Anointing is a normal hedgehog behavior where they lick themselves into a froth after encountering a new smell or taste. It’s not harmful. They’re essentially applying the scent to their spines.
What kind of gloves are best to use when handling a hedgehog?
Thick gardening gloves or leather gloves are a good choice for handling a hedgehog. Avoid thin gloves that spines can easily penetrate.
Is it safe for children to pick up a hedgehog?
Children can handle hedgehogs, but under close adult supervision. They need to be taught how to handle the hedgehog gently and safely. Children must also wash their hands thoroughly after handling a hedgehog.
Should I pick up a hedgehog while it’s sleeping?
It’s generally best to avoid picking up a hedgehog while it’s sleeping. This can startle them and make them more defensive. Wait until they are awake and active.