The hedgehog is famous for its cute nose, round ears, and many spines. This animal can be a fun pet. However, before having fun with this animal, you must first tame it. Taming is the process of training your hedgehog to feel comfortable around you. Fortunately, there are many ways to win a hedgehog's heart and trust, such as familiarizing him with your body odor, rewarding him with treats, and keeping him away from the things he fears.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Familiarizing the Hedgehog with Your Body Odor
Step 1. Play with the hedgehog every day until it gets used to your body odor
With poor eyesight, it's natural for hedgehogs to rely heavily on their sense of smell to identify people and other animals. Once they get used to your body odor, your hedgehog will begin to recognize you and feel more comfortable around you.
- To play with the hedgehog, lift his body. The trick, tuck your hands under his stomach and lift. Now you can hold the hedgehog. Or, sit down and let the animal sit on your lap.
- Try playing with the hedgehog for at least 30 minutes every day to tame it.
Step 2. Do not wear protective gloves when handling the hedgehog
These gloves will make it harder for your hedgehog to pick up your scent. As a result, these animals will not get used to the smell emanating from your body. Yes, hedgehogs do have sharp spines. However, believe me, the sharp thorns will not hurt you. So, you will still be safe holding the hedgehog without gloves.
If you're still worried about getting pricked by a hedgehog's thorn, wear gloves when you're trying to get him out of the cage. Then, remove the gloves and touch the hedgehog with your bare hands when the animal is more relaxed
Step 3. Place your scraps of old clothes in the hedgehog's cage
Your old clothes, either a t-shirt or a shirt, you can use. The goal is to introduce your smell in the cage until your hedgehog gets used to it.
Make sure there are no zippers, buttons, or loose threads on the fabric that could injure the hedgehog
Step 4. Avoid using scented products when taming hedgehogs
The key to taming a hedgehog is to make him comfortable with your smell. For that, don't confuse these animals with odors that come from the products you wear. Avoid scented soaps, lotions, perfumes, or shampoos until your hedgehog is comfortable around you.
When buying beauty and personal hygiene products, look for those labeled “fragrance free”
Method 2 of 3: Reward the Hedgehog with Snacks
Step 1. Snack your hedgehog when it straightens out and is no longer curled up
When they feel scared or threatened, the hedgehog will roll over. When your hedgehog stretches out in your arms or lap, which means it feels safe, treat your beloved pet with a treat. Over time the hedgehog will begin to associate your presence with a sense of security and reward.
Place the food near you while petting the hedgehog. That way, you can immediately give it to your hedgehog whenever you need it
Step 2. Give your hedgehog a favorite treat as a gift
One way to earn this animal's trust and affection is to give the hedgehog a treat it likes so that the hedgehog wants more. Keep in mind that basically hedgehogs are insectivores or insectivores. So, Hong Kong crickets and caterpillars (including those available frozen) will be a valuable gift during the time of taming the hedgehog.
- Hong Kong crickets and caterpillars are widely sold in pet stores, including bird feed stores.
- If you don't want to use Hong Kong crickets and caterpillars, you can also give small pieces of fruit and vegetables such as corn, apples, and carrots.
Step 3. Don't overfeed your hedgehog
Hedgehogs are not necessarily immune to obesity. Make sure you don't give him too many treats. In this taming program, only give 2-3 treats while holding it.
- If your hedgehog seems to be gaining a lot of weight, reduce the number of treats you give each day.
- As long as you can see the hedgehog's face, ears, or legs as it curls up into a ball, that's a sign that your pet is overweight.
Method 3 of 3: Avoid Scare Hedgehogs
Step 1. Try not to cast a shadow when lifting the hedgehog
The sight of these insectivorous animals is not sharp. Naturally, they are sensitive to bright light and shadows. When lifting a hedgehog, try not to shade your body. Hedgehogs will be scared to see your shadow. Of course, you don't want your hedgehog to be restless and anxious as you try to tame it.
To keep your shadow from hitting the hedgehog, be careful when near light sources. For example, if there is a light near the cage, avoid standing in front of it when lifting the hedgehog
Step 2. Avoid making noise when handling the hedgehog
In addition to bright light and shadows, hedgehogs are also sensitive to noise. If you don't want your hedgehog to freak out while you're in your arms, try to stay calm and not make a sound.
Don't scream, listen to music at high volume, slam your door or closet door, or drop things while holding your hedgehog
Step 3. Patiently wait until it's time for your hedgehog to feel comfortable with you
If you hurry, the process of taming a hedgehog will actually take longer. Don't force your hedgehog to pay attention so it doesn't scare or feel threatened. It's better to spend a lot of time with your beloved pet to get used to your body odor and presence. In the end, your hedgehog will feel safe around you.
