Are Hedgehogs Cuddly?

A reader asked me if hedgehogs could be held or cuddled, and if they were really spiky or furry. I thought this was an interesting question, though it really has several points that need to be addressed. My hedgehog, Genie, was always pretty tame and handling never posed much of a problem, though she sometimes did some huffing and rolling into a ball if she was not in the mood to be touched. However, even at her grumpiest she poked me a few times but never managed to really hurt me, though a cute little hedgehog in full defense mode can be pretty intimidating. Anyway, most hedgehogs will not mind being held, though sometimes a little patience (and training) is required, and they are quite easy to hold. However, not all hedgehogs really enjoy being held, as explained in my answer to the question "Can You Hold or Cuddle a Hedgehog? Are They Spiky?"

Photo of Genie the Hedgehog © Lianne McLeod