When you first bring your new hedgehog home, it's crucial to give them time to adjust to their new environment. Generally, you should wait about a week before handling them regularly. This allows your hedgehog to become comfortable in their new space without feeling stressed.

Once your hedgehog seems settled, you can start handling them gently. Aim for short sessions of about 5 to 10 minutes a few times a week at first. As your hedgehog becomes more accustomed to you, you can gradually increase the duration and frequency of handling to daily sessions. Always watch for signs of stress, such as hissing or curling into a ball, and respect their comfort level.

Make sure to handle your hedgehog in a quiet, calm environment, and always support their body properly. You can also create positive associations by offering treats during handling sessions, which can help your hedgehog feel more at ease with you.

Remember, patience is key! Every hedgehog has a different personality, and some may take longer than others to warm up to handling. Enjoy the bonding process!

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Hedgehog Care Pet Hedgehogs Hedgehog Behavior Handling Hedgehogs New Hedgehog Tips