If you're welcoming a pet hedgehog into your family, the safest option is to keep it well away from any other pets at all times. This will ensure that your hedgehog stays safe, happy and healthy. That said,
a hedgehog can coexist in a home with a cat or a dog
.
Are hedgehogs okay with dogs?
Hedgehogs might be nocturnal, solitary critters, but
they get along with most animals, such as dogs
. They need to get used to your dogs, but with patience and proper socialization, your dog and hedgehog should get along nicely.
Are hedgehogs good with cats and dogs?
According to Brehm,
a hedgehog can coexist with cats and dogs, but won't typically make friends with them
, and it's a good idea to monitor any interaction between your pet hedgehog and another animal. It's also best to keep your hedgehog away from other small exotic pets, for the safety of both animals.
Will a cat harm a hedgehog?
Although
cats don't attack hedgehogs
, they are a predatory species, and they will attack other garden wildlife.
Are hedgehogs scared of dogs?
Hedgehogs are also likely to be afraid of dogs
. The stress of meeting a dog may be too much for a hedgehog. Even the most docile dog can cause a lot of fear in small animals. It is important that your hedgehog isn't put in a situation that can cause unnecessary stress.
How do I protect my hedgehog from my cat?
Adding bricks or walls within the feeding station
, as shown below, will make it harder for larger animals like cats to get to the food. Putting a dish of water at the entrance will deter cats as they don't like to get their paws wet!
Are cats afraid of hedgehogs?
Cats do not normally pose a problem as they usually leave hedgehogs alone after initial investigation
. We even have trail camera footage of the most mischievous of cats sitting outside and being very confused but unphased as a brave little hedgehog bumps into them and carries on their way!
Why you shouldn't get a hedgehog?
Some regions have banned the practice of keeping hedgehogs, as
some carry the highly contagious foot-and-mouth disease
. They can also transmit salmonella bacteria as well as viral and fungal diseases, and their sharp spines can puncture skin and cause infections.
Do hedgehogs cuddle?
Some hedgehogs do seem to like to snuggle up to their human companions
, while others might be shyer or simply prefer exploring and moving about over sitting still and cuddling.
Why do dogs love hedgehogs?
It's that
extra auditory element that gives them the mental stimulation they crave
. Interactive dog toys like our honking and squeaking stuffed hedgehogs encourage healthy play and trigger a dog's natural instincts.
What if my dog sees a hedgehog?
So if your pup has had a go at a hedgehog, even if the hog looks fine, its best to always
get it checked over by your local rescue centre or the vet
. An encounter between an aggressive pet and a hedgehog is likely to leave the dog with some wounds too.
What do you do if your dog attacks a hedgehog?
If your dog is injured by a hedgehog,
bathe its mouth in water that has been boiled and left to cool and add some sea salt
, which has antiseptic properties. If you are still concerned afterwards, visit the vet.
How do I stop my dog from killing hedgehogs?
Try to keep dogs away from any hedgehogs in your garden
as an encounter could lead to both animals being hurt. If you know your dog is prone to attacking hedgehogs then try to warn hedgehogs visiting your garden when the dog is being let out e.g. turn on an outside light a minute or so before letting the dog out.
Do hedgehog fleas live on dogs?
Hedgehog fleas are host specific so
while they may jump onto a cat or dog, they won't infest them
.
How do you tell if you have a hedgehog in the garden?
- Footprints. Hedgehogs weigh around 1kg but they don't leave footprints unless the ground is very soft. …
- Droppings. Hedgehog droppings are a sure fire sign you have hedgehogs in your garden. …
- Disturbed Foliage. …
- Noise. …
- Install a Camera.
What do you do if you find a hedgehog in your garden?
Generally, any hedgehog out during the day is probably in trouble and will need to be
picked up and taken to a wildlife rescue centre
. You can pick them up using gardening gloves and put them into a cardboard box, although they are good climbers, so you would need to ensure it cannot escape.
Where do hedgehogs sleep?
Hedgehogs sleep and hibernate in
a specially made nest
, if you find them ‘sleeping' anywhere else it's likely that they are ill and are in need of help.
What is lifespan of a hedgehog?
Dr. Keller says, “With appropriate care and keeping, your hedgehog will live
about five years, and some even live longer than eight years
.” If you have any questions about hedgehogs, contact your local veterinarian.
Do hedgehogs play with toys?
Hedgehog Toys & Accessories
Hedgehogs are active, playful creatures that love to be entertained with toys
. They'll also entertain you with all their wild, fun activity!
Do hedgehogs have fleas?
Hedgehog fleas
Hedgehogs are renowned for having fleas
. However, the fleas found on hedgehogs are actually hedgehog fleas (scientific name: Archaeopsylla erinacei) which are host specific, meaning they will not survive for long on any other species, be it pets or people.
