Just got a Hedgie, question

[cecelia117]

I just got my hedgie today. I got home with her about 5, and so far have only taken her out once for just a minute. She didn't even ball up or anything. My question is, how much should I handle her the first couple days? I've read conflicting things about this, I've read that you should leave them alone, and I've also read that you should handle them if they aren't too stressed.

[Tails]

Don't know but I've been handling mine from the start, even though he's nervous. Getting small amounts of progress but not handling will make a hedgie more withdrawn I would think?

[Vampira_666]

I handled Marigold as much as I could when I brought her home-- my breeder told me to do so- and I had no problems with her at all-- she is the sweetest thing in the world- won't raise a quill for the life of me:laugh: the only time I ever saw marigold raise her quills was when she had her litter- and that was just to protect her babies!!

In my personal opinion handling them as much as possible would be the best thing to do! of course giving them adaquate time to sleep eat etc.. though-- I Have Rue who 've also had since he was 6 weeks and didn't handle him as much when I fist got him and now I'm regretting it-- he is such a GRUMP;)--GOOD LUCK!!

[hemi_mygirl]

I think it's recommended you leave them alone for a day to calm down, and handle them just a little bit for the first week. After that, it's recommended that you handle your hedgehog for at least 30 minutes to an hour per night, even just while sitting on the computer or watching TV. They'll sleep quite comfortably on your lap.

[cecelia117]

So far she is really a sweetie. i decided to get her out, and just put her back if she seemed stressed. Well so far so good. She doesn't even roll in a ball or anything, but she is covering her face once in awhile. There were four hedgies to pick from, and I definitely think I made the right choice. I still have to pick a name for her though, lol.

Oh, I had one more question. I know they sleep during the day, so does that mean I should totally leave her alone during the day?

Thanks for answering my questions.

[horsegal]

My hedgie rode home on our laps. We played with him the 1st and 2nd day we had him for a couple of hours in the evening. He never got stressed or had green poo. I think it just depends on the hedgies personality.

[HamorHollow]

I think it's best to make things as normal as possible right from the start. No sense in starting one routine just to change it in a day or 2.

I've brought numerous hedgehogs into my house, and send even more out. Hedgehogs are incredibly adaptable, so there really isn't a need to tip toe around them. You'll probably see a little green poop for the first few days, but generally that's it.

[cecelia117]

Thanks everyone for the replies. I got her out for about 2 hours last night, and will probably do the same tonight.