jumpy hedgie

[carlabeth]

I've had my hedgehog for a week now. I have to hold him in a blanket. Once I pick him up he unballs in less then a minute. He will eat treats from my hand. But the second I move at all he tucks in his head and huffs. He is like that with sound too. If I try and pet his back he jumps. I have been sitting him in front of me on my computer desk to try and get him used to me and movement instead of holding him. I have no light on in the room. Is it typical for a hedgie to be so sensitive to movement? I think I am making progress with him but I'm not sure. Right now he is sniffing around and moving a bit. We changed his name to quiver because it fits him better then cheeky.

[razzle]

Wow, sounds like you have already made huge progress with Quiver!! (Cute name!) Yeah, my boy is very jumpy too. I try not to make sudden movements around him. Depending on his mood....most movements will cause him to put his "quill visor" down, even if only for a minute, then he's fine. Razzle doesn't like when I touch his back either, but he likes when I pat his forehead/nose. Even if he's rolled in a ball, I can gently move his quills away from his face and he'll eventually relax. They all have their individual preferences! But it really sounds like you are making great progress. Eating a treat out of your hand is big!!

[HedgieMate]

Is it typical for a hedgie to be so sensitive to movement?I really can't say if it's "typical", because our experience is limited to only one hedgehog. However, as far as our hedgie is concerned, yes, it's typical of him to be sensitive to sudden movements, big noises, and bright lights. Our hedgie is very shy and jumpy too. I think it's his personality and it can't be generalized for all hedgies.

I agree wit Razzle's mom, you and Quiver are doing great. Keep up the good work! :thumbsupwink: