Understanding Hedgehog Behavior
Hedgehogs are naturally shy creatures with excellent defenses. When threatened, they curl into a ball of spikes - this is not aggression, it is survival instinct. Building trust takes time, but your patience will be rewarded.
The First Days Home
Give your new hedgehog 2-3 days to adjust to their new environment before attempting to handle them. Place their cage in a quiet area where they can observe daily activities without feeling overwhelmed.
Building Trust Gradually
Start by placing your hand near the cage so your hedgehog learns your scent. Next, offer treats from your palm. Once they are comfortable with that, you can gently scoop them up from below, supporting their belly.