Are Hedgehogs Domesticated? (7 Clear Facts)

Having a pet such as a dog or a cat is fun but not too surprising because it is usual. Sometimes pet owners want to have another pet from the wild that is harmless and possible to own. Hedgehogs are one of them. Maybe you will be confused about some people having hedgehogs as pets, even though they have sharp spines on the back of their bodies.

Are hedgehogs domesticated? Wild hedgehogs are native to Africa. In recent years hedgehogs have been kept as pets in North America namely African pygmy hedgehogs. This African species has been considered domesticated. Although hedgehogs are not meant for everyone. If you know how to care for them properly, you can make them wonderful pets.

Before you decide to treat a hedgehog as a pet, you need to read in more detail about hedgehogs in this article.

Are Hedgehogs Domesticated Animals?

You can find wild hedgehogs in parts of Asia, Africa, Europe, and New Zealand. Many have hedgehogs as pets through selective breeding. Hedgehogs are suitable for being in captivity, although they will take a defensive stance until they feel safe with the situation around them.

Initially, hedgehogs were considered wild animals until many people were eager to have them as a pet. African pygmy hedgehogs, Indian long-eared hedgehogs, four-toed hedgehogs, and several other long-eared hedgehogs are some of the domesticated hedgehogs.

However, several jurisdictions in North America declare it illegal to own a hedgehog as a pet since several species can carry mouth and food diseases. You need to have a license if you want to breed them legally.

Are Hedgehogs Wild Or Domestic?

Right now, many people can tell the difference between wild and domesticated hedgehogs. Both have different behavior because it is adjusted from where they live.

Wild hedgehogs are much more active by digging and foraging for food. Domesticated hedgehogs are much calmer because they are fed regularly and do less exercise.

Both of them have a defensive system, but you will rarely see a domesticated hedgehog curled up because they are used to living quietly without being targeted by predators.

Are hedgehogs domesticated? The African pygmy hedgehog has been a domesticated hedgehog for a long time because many people have it as a pet.

When Did Hedgehogs Become Domesticated?

The hedgehog became domesticated starting from the 4th century BC when the Romans domesticated an Algerian hedgehog.

History continues with other evidence, which states that it starts at least from the 7th century BC. Maybe it’s too long if we discuss it in that year because the evidence is too little.

Are hedgehogs domesticated? Modern domestication began in the 1980s, and some species are hybrids. One of the famous domesticated hedgehogs is the African pygmy hedgehog. Their life expectancy is around 4-6 years if treated with a healthy environment and proper care.

Are Hedgehogs Good Pets?

Hedgehogs are solitary animals. They need adaptation if taken from wild to captivity. Hedgehogs are low-maintenance pets and fun to own. Proper daily handling will make the hedgehog relax as a pet and feel safe when near you. Overall, hedgehogs are a good pet.

The main problem faced by hedgehog owners is when the hedgehog curls up. You have to know how to calm them down until they flattened their sharp quills. It will be a little challenging if you have other pets besides hedgehogs because hedgehogs easily feel threatened and quill up.

Are hedgehogs domesticated? Several species have become domesticated, such as the four-toed hedgehogs and the African pygmy hedgehogs. Try to find references about whether or not it is legal to have a hedgehog where you live.

Where To Buy A Hedgehog?

You can’t find them at major pet stores like PetSmart, but you can find them at independently owned pet stores that are licensed to breed hedgehogs. Local breeders often market their pet hedgehogs through Craigslist or Facebook.

You don’t always have to look for a pet hedgehog for sale. Try to find some people who are overwhelmed with caring for hedgehogs or some people who already have more than one hedgehog after breeding practice.

Are Hedgehogs Good Pets For Kids?

Do not bring hedgehogs to kids in the first few days when hedgehogs enter your home. Hedgehogs need some time to feel safe in your home. They can be trained and playful if you and the kids understand how to care for them properly.

Hedgehogs are animals that do not bite but have sharp quills that can pierce your skin. It allows you to teach your child responsibility, to be careful when approaching hedgehogs and how to pet them.

Are Hedgehogs Common Pets?

Hedgehogs are not considered common pets, but they are becoming increasingly popular as pets. Hedgehogs are exotic pets because they require special care and a specific way to keep them calm without showing their defensive stance.

A secure hedgehog won’t curl up and can be tamed easily. Treat hedgehogs like dogs by giving treats or petting them when near them, until the hedgehog has trust in you. Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals. Suitable for workers who want to play with their pets at night.

Are hedgehogs domesticated? Yes, some species are domesticated. Try to find several types of hedgehogs in independent pet stores.

Are Hedgehogs A Good Pet To Have?

Owning a hedgehog as a pet is fun. You can see them being active at night for jogging, munching on their food, and being a little shy when they approach you. If you can approach them gently, they can be spoiled around you and want you to take them with you wherever you go.

If hedgehogs have faith in their owners, they will often climb on their owners’ bodies. Their unique habit is sniffing around for smells they are not familiar with. Sometimes they get a little naughty by taking your socks, drawstrings, or shoelaces.

Hedgehog Temperament

It depends on how you take care of them. Hedgehogs have a personality range from friendly and sociable, to introverted and aggressive. If you pick up hedgehogs from the wild, you need to give them time to get used to their surroundings.

Try to interact with hedgehogs a lot, until they want to get closer to you. If you only have a hedgehog as a pet that you always keep in a cage, they will feel like they are always alone and will curl up when you want to hold them.

How To Properly Care A Hedgehog?

Hedgehogs originated from wild animals. You have to treat them gently until they feel comfortable living in captivity. The table below is a few ways to properly care for a hedgehog.

Final Verdict – Are Hedgehogs Domesticated

Many are getting interested in having a hedgehog as a pet. Even though they look harmless, you need to know a few things before caring for hedgehogs. They are animals that have a defensive system by showing sharp quills and protecting their bodies from anything that targets them.

When the hedgehogs feel safe, they will flatten their quills and begin their normal activities. They can be friendly pets if you take care of them properly. Do not bring hedgehogs near other larger pets to ensure hedgehogs are not frightened by the presence of other pets.

As a pet lover, make sure to learn about pet more and give your pet hedgehog a good and comfortable life!

Rajkumar Ravichandran

Welcome to Learn About Pet. My name is Rajkumar Ravichandran and I love all pets, travel, and amazing food. I write about my passion and personal experience caring for multiple pets in this blog! ❤️