So, if he hisses, is it still ok to pick him up?

scooters mom · 06-07-2005, 03:14 PM

I just got a hedgehog last night and when I held him (when I picked him out) he was very friendly, walked all over me, I moved him from my shoulder down to my hands, very curious little guy-absolutely no hissing, balling, tryng to bite etc. But, since being home, he hisses and jumps a small bit at me whenever I even try to pick him up and I have been a little leary about picking him up beacuse of it and have not managed to do so yet. Do I give him more time to adjust to the new surroundings or do I need to just pick him up even though he is hissing, to get used to me? Does hissing always mean that a bite is to follow? From what I read, it does not seem to be the case, but want to make sure. Oh, and I make sure my hands smell like "me", no soap etc. so I know that is not it.

Thanks

redrose · 06-07-2005, 03:39 PM

Hi Scooters Mom,

Congrats on getting a new quill kid!!!! Your new hedgie needs time to adjust to his/her home and new owner. I suggest you wear a t-shirt (old one) and then place it into its cage so that it gets used to your smell. Another trick is to lay down on a couch and just let the hedgie walk on you.... feeding it mealworms with your hands also helps. Most hogs will lick you before they bite but some just bite for no reason(my albino). You can also look at old posts for more info. Hope this info helps.

Red and her albino gang

P.S. www.hedgehogvalley.com is a very good site for info

fertmom · 06-07-2005, 07:39 PM

Ditto what Red said

Yes, you should still pick him up. If he learns that puffing up and huffing keeps you from picking him up he will do it more. Try to let him unroll on you rather than you "holding" him and he will get used to you faster. Treats are always a good thing to show you are a nice person and not someone who will do harm. Also try to avoid sudden movements and harsh loud noises while he is getting used to you.