Can hedgehogs be trained to swim?
They are capable. According to ARKive, hedgehogs can swim and are very good swimmers. Although those located in Africa’s deserts may not have many opportunities to swim, the spiky little fellas from western Europe’s lowlands, which include marshes and ponds, do get the opportunity to swim on occasion.
Hedgehogs enjoy swimming and do so for recreation. A baby hedgie may live his whole life without ever swimming or needing to swim, yet if given the opportunity, he will joyfully spend time in the water. It is not necessary for a hedgehog swimming, and if you do let your hedgehog swim, you must keep a watch on them. These creatures are little, yet they have prickly quills that are loaded with air. This helps them float if they fall into the water.
Overall, the answer is yes! The majority of hedgehogs can swim well. However, this sensitive critter faces the risk of being injured or dying if they are unable to climb back out of a steep pool or bank. Another probable unfavourable situation is if they hit their head or are severely hurt.
Hedgehogs are considered to be adept swimmers in their natural surroundings. Because the quills are partially filled with air pockets, the creature is buoyant, allowing it to float and swim. Remember that without the quills, your young hedgehog might not be as large (a process you’ll understand more once they’ve gone through quilling). This allows them to float and swim more easily with a good water temperature. This is not to say that your humble little pet will one day compete in the Olympics. All hedgehog swim, but the question is whether they want to or not (more on that later).
Hedgehog swimming: Do they enjoy it?
Now that we’ve proven that hedgehogs are good swimmers, let’s see how much they love it. Your hedgie’s preference for a pleasant dip in the water will be determined by your unique and charming pet.
When it comes to personal taste, it’s worth noting that some hedgehogs may be scared or terrified of water owing to a terrible encounter in the past. The unknown aspects in this new scenario may lead a hedgehog to get nervous. These anxieties will keep most hedgehogs on land in general. Other hedgehogs, on the other hand, will jump right in! Now that we’ve proven that hedgehogs can swim, let’s see how much they love it. Your hedgie’s preference for a pleasant dip in the water will be determined by your unique and charming pet loves swimming.
When it comes to personal taste, it’s worth noting that some hedgehogs may be scared or terrified of water owing to a terrible encounter in the past. The unknown aspects in this new scenario may lead a hedgehog to get nervous. These anxieties will keep these hedgehogs on land in general. Other hedgehogs, on the other hand, will jump right in!
Another reason your prickly child may dislike swimming is that they are simply sluggish or grouchy.
Hedgehogs swim: Is It Safe to Allow Them it?
Yes, in general, but you should never leave your pet hedgehog alone when he is swimming. Make sure there is a ramp for your pet to climb up on when he wants to get out of the water. It is crucial to understand that even hedgehogs who enjoy swimming might drown if they get into difficulty. Avoid leaving them alone near a deep pool or garden water feature with higher sides, making it harder for your small and sweet hedgehog to crawl out when ready. If your hedgehog will be playing outside at night, it is important to cover any garden pool or other water source.
Another potential threat while swimming outside with your hedgehog is neighbouring wildlife and/or other neighbourhood dogs who may try to attack your small companion. When threatened, hedgehogs will freeze and roll onto their backs. When submerged, their air-filled quills thwart this endeavour.
Pet hedgehog: The Benefits of Allowing Them to Swim
Allowing your hedgehog to swim has a few perks. To begin, swimming may be enjoyable for your pet if you allow them enough time to adjust to the water and constantly observe him/her when in or near any water source. Swimming is an excellent kind of exercise for your pet. While yoga and spin classes are out of the question for hedgehogs living, swimming on occasion will provide enough exercise.
Another wonderful advantage of allowing your pet hedgie to swim is that it stimulates its mind, body, and soul. Hedgehogs in the wild typically spend long hours hunting for food and attempting to avoid predators.
Hedgehogs can become bored quickly in captivity. This boredom can lead to depression, and they will sleep more frequently and consume more than they need at meals. As a result, the hedgehog may gain too much weight. Obese hedgehogs are sadly frequent among pet hedgehogs.