1. **Quilling and Curling Up**: When scared, a hedgehog will often curl into a tight ball, hiding its face and belly. This is a defense mechanism to protect themselves from perceived threats.
2. **Hissing or Snorting**: A scared hedgehog may make noises such as hissing, snorting, or puffing. These sounds are often accompanied by defensive postures.
3. **Increased Agitation**: If your hedgehog is pacing back and forth in its enclosure or seems restless, it may be feeling anxious.
4. **Avoiding Interaction**: If your hedgehog is usually friendly but suddenly avoids being handled or retreats to a corner, it could be feeling scared.
5. **Spines Raised**: When a hedgehog is frightened, it may raise its spines to appear larger and more intimidating to potential threats.
6. **Loss of Appetite**: A scared hedgehog may refuse to eat or drink, which can be a sign of stress.
To help a scared hedgehog, create a calm and safe environment. Minimize loud noises and sudden movements around them, and give them time to adjust to new surroundings. Gradually introduce handling, allowing them to become comfortable with you at their own pace. Providing hiding spots in their habitat can also help them feel secure.
Remember, patience is key when building trust with your hedgehog!
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