Hedgehogs are small nocturnal mammals that have become increasingly popular as domestic pets, while wild populations interact with humans in gardens and natural habitats. These animals are generally not aggressive, but they possess natural defenses and carry specific health hazards. The risks associated with hedgehogs are manageable and fall into two main categories: mechanical injury from their quills and the potential for transmitting zoonotic diseases. Implementing simple safety protocols is important for safe interaction with both pet and wild hedgehogs.
Physical Defenses and Risk of Injury
The most recognizable feature of the hedgehog is its armor of quills, which are stiff, modified hairs. These quills are purely defensive, and the animal cannot “shoot” them at a perceived threat. When startled or threatened, the hedgehog contracts a layer of muscle beneath the skin to pull the spiny coat into a protective ball, shielding its soft underbelly, face, and limbs.
Injury occurs when a person attempts to handle a hedgehog that is curled into this defensive posture, as the erect quills can easily prick or puncture the skin. These injuries are typically superficial but can be painful and may draw blood. The first line of defense, before balling up, is often a rapid flicking of the spines or a sudden lunge, which is a warning to back away.
Biting is a rare behavior in hedgehogs, as they rely primarily on their quills for protection. When a bite does occur, it is usually a result of confusion rather than aggression, such as mistaking a finger for a food item because of residual scents. Hedgehogs have relatively small, flat teeth, but a bite can break the skin if the animal is stressed or defensive.
Zoonotic Disease Concerns
The most significant health risk associated with hedgehogs is their potential to transmit zoonotic pathogens. The primary concern is Salmonella infection, or salmonellosis, a bacterial disease that can cause severe gastrointestinal illness in people. Hedgehogs, both wild and domestic, can serve as asymptomatic carriers of various Salmonella serotypes, meaning the animal may appear perfectly healthy while carrying the bacteria.
Transmission of Salmonella occurs through direct or indirect contact with contaminated feces or the environment where the hedgehog lives. The bacteria can persist in the animal’s enclosure, bedding, or on its body, including its feet and quills, even if the animal shows no signs of illness.
While salmonellosis is the most common bacterial concern, hedgehogs can also carry other agents, including certain species of Mycobacterium and external parasites like fleas and mites. The risk of contracting these zoonotic diseases is highest for individuals with compromised immune systems, the elderly, and young children. This risk is greatly mitigated by rigorous hygiene practices after any interaction with the animal or its enclosure.
Safe Handling and Observation Practices
Minimizing the risk of injury and disease transmission involves adopting specific handling and observation protocols. For pet owners, routine hand washing with soap and water immediately before and after handling the hedgehog or cleaning its living space is the most effective way to prevent the transmission of bacteria like Salmonella.
When handling a pet hedgehog, a gentle, scooping motion from underneath with cupped hands is recommended to avoid getting pricked by the quills. New owners may use a thick towel or soft cloth until the animal becomes accustomed to their scent and touch, which encourages it to relax and lay its quills flat. Consistent, calm handling is important for the pet to build trust and reduce its defensive instinct to curl up.
If a wild hedgehog is encountered, the best practice is to observe it from a distance and avoid any physical contact. Wild animals should never be touched or fed, as they are more likely to carry parasites and diseases. If a wild hedgehog appears injured or sick, it should only be handled with thick gardening gloves and placed in a secure container before contacting a wildlife rescue professional.