What do I do if my hedgehog bites me?
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What do I do if my hedgehog bites me?
Time Out if Your Hedgehog Bites You immediately and firmly say, “No bite” and put them in time-out. To be clear, time out is NOT back in their cage! That only reinforces hedgehog biting behavior and they learn it gets them put back into a safe, secure place to hide.
What does it mean if a hedgehog bites you?
Your hedgehog could bite or nip if you are doing something that is making it uncomfortable such as being too close to its face or are trying to restrain it. Some hedgehogs may bite to express their irritation with you because you woke them up too early or tried trimming their nails.
Is it normal for a hedgehog to bite?
In general, hedgehog bites are not something you’ll have to worry about very often. These little critters usually keep their teeth to themselves! If your pet hedgehog decides to bite it often means they’re trying to tell you there’s something going on that they don’t like.
How do you tame an aggressive hedgehog?
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How do you train a hedgehog not to bite?
Ways to discourage the biting event
- Try handling your hedgehog at different times during the day. Your hedgehog may have a time when it is easier for it to relax and enjoy your company.
- Make sure your hands are clean. Food, hand soap or lotions may smell yummy to a hedgehog.
- Watch for signs of sensory overload.
How do you discipline a hedgehog?
Blow a puff of air at your hedgehog after a bite. This is a gentle way to discourage your hedgehog from its behavior. This will not harm the hedgehog and will teach it that biting is not something it should be doing. Try distracting your hedgehog if it is nipping you.
How do you pick up a hedgehog without getting pricked?
Slowly scoop your hedgehog up from both sides using flat palms. If you use loose bedding feel free to scoop a generous amount of bedding along with your hedgehog to provide some cushioning to your hands. You can also use a small piece of fleece or thick fabric to gently pick your hedgehog up with.
Do pet hedgehogs spikes hurt?
The quills tend to lay down flat along the back and sides of the hedgehog, all pointing towards their rear end, so as long as you don’t push against the sharp tips of the quills (pet them backwards) they pose no problems or chance of being poked.
Do hedgehogs like to be petted?
Even though hedgehogs are “pets” they may not automatically enjoy being petted. You must first earn your hedgehog’s trust so that it can relax and enjoy your touch, rather than fear your touch as potential harm. When your hedgehog huffs or puffs, just relax and give your hedgehog time to relax.
Do hedgehogs learn their name?
Hedgehogs do not recognize their names like dogs and cats do. However, if you give them names and call them often, they will respond and give you their attention because the name or your voice is familiar. They will even respond to different names as long as your voice is familiar to them.