Bonding with your hedgehog

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A very common complaint that I have heard from people is that their hedgehog "hates them". Let me reassure you that your hedgehog DOES NOT HATE YOU. Some hedgehogs are extremely shy and you honestly have to work for their love. Regardless of how often you handle them, they may curl up in a ball and try to make themselves look as menacing as possible. Take a deep breath and be very, VERY patient with your new prickly friend. Just like humans, hedgehogs have different personalities. They rarely bite, and will curl up in a ball as their defense mechanism. Here are a list of suggestions on how to win your hedgehog over and earn their love:
  • The first day home, leave them alone to get acquainted with their surroundings. Some hedgehogs have no problem adjusting, but most of them are terrified. Think of it this way: if someone new were to pick you up, move you to a new country with no other people you knew, to a brand new home and environment, would you be scared? I know I would :) Let them slowly get used to their new home. Sometimes it helps to put an old shirt in their cage that has your smell on it, so they can get used to your scent.
  • Win them over with treats and food. Try giving them food right off of your hand. Most of ours will do anything for bugs...yummy!!! They love meal worms, but can eat crickets, wax worms, superworms, and even roaches!