10 Signs Your Hedgehog Is Stressed and How to Help

Hedgehogs are charming and curious pets, but they can also be sensitive creatures. Understanding their behavior is crucial for ensuring their well-being.

Stress can significantly impact a hedgehog’s health and happiness, leading to various behavioral changes. Recognizing the signs of stress early allows owners to intervene and create a more comfortable environment.

Here are ten signs that your hedgehog may be stressed and tips on how to help.

1. Quilling

Pet Hedgehog — Image Credit: Masalenasi – Own work, GFDL/Wiki Commons.

Quilling is a natural process for hedgehogs, but excessive quilling or irritation can indicate stress. If your hedgehog is losing quills more than usual or shows signs of discomfort, it may be time to assess their environment. Providing a stress-free habitat with appropriate bedding can help reduce irritation.

2. Hiding or Curling Up

Hiding Hedgehog — Image Credit: Jodi Pelman/Pexels.

If your hedgehog frequently hides or curls into a ball, it might be feeling anxious. This behavior is a defense mechanism. To help, ensure they have a safe, quiet space in their enclosure where they can retreat. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle them.

3. Excessive Vocalization

Image Credit: Levi Clancy – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

Hedgehogs may vocalize when they feel threatened or stressed. If your hedgehog is making unusual noises, it could be a sign of distress. Reducing environmental stressors—like loud sounds or other pets—can help calm your hedgehog and make them feel more secure.

4. Loss of Appetite

Holding Hedgehog — Image Credit: Svetlana Romashenko/Pexels.

A stressed hedgehog may lose interest in food or water. If you notice a significant drop in their appetite, it could be due to anxiety. Ensure their diet is varied and fresh, and try offering food at different times or locations to encourage eating.

5. Aggressive Behavior

Aggressive looking hedgehog — Image Credit: Anna Bondarenko/Pexels.

If your normally docile hedgehog starts displaying aggression—like biting or hissing—it’s likely feeling stressed. This change in behavior can stem from feeling threatened. Providing a calm and predictable routine, as well as gentle handling, can help reduce their stress levels.

6. Increased Grooming

Hedgehog curled up — Image Credit: Rosa Stone/Pexels.

Over-grooming or self-destructive behavior, such as biting their own skin, can indicate stress. If you notice your hedgehog engaging in these behaviors, it’s essential to evaluate their environment. Offering enrichment activities, such as toys or hiding spots, can help distract them and reduce stress.

7. Changes in Sleeping Patterns

Holding Hedgehog outdoors — Image Credit: Marina Riijik/Pexels.

Hedgehogs are nocturnal, so a change in their sleeping habits can signal stress. If your hedgehog is sleeping more than usual or staying awake during the day, it could indicate anxiety. Make sure their habitat is dark and quiet during the day to encourage a healthy sleep schedule.

8. Frequent Scratching or Climbing

Hedgehog digging — Image Credit: Pixabay/Pexels.

If your hedgehog is constantly scratching at the walls of their enclosure or trying to escape, it may be feeling confined or stressed. Ensure their habitat is spacious and enriched with climbing structures and hiding spots to provide a sense of security and stimulation.

9. Changes in Poop Consistency

Hedgehog smelling Grass — Image Credit: Pixabay/Pexels.

Stress can also manifest in digestive issues, leading to changes in your hedgehog’s droppings. If you notice diarrhea or very dry stools, it may be a sign of stress. Ensure they have a balanced diet, access to fresh water, and reduce stressors in their environment.

10. Reduced Activity Levels

Hedgehog Sleeping — Image Credit: Boyana.kjfg – Own work, CC BY 4.0/Wiki Commons.

A stressed hedgehog may become lethargic and less active. If your hedgehog is spending more time hiding or appears less interested in exploring, it could be feeling overwhelmed. Creating a calm, enriching environment with plenty of opportunities for exploration can help stimulate their natural curiosity.