Hedgehog Central banner

Concern about neglection

1.2K views 3 replies 4 participants last post by  Emc  
#1 ·
I’m a full time student with some motivational disorders; which have resulted in my hedgie not getting the attention she deserves like the queen she is. I don’t clean her cage enough, or handle her enough. I feel so terrible. I want to care for her more than anything. I’m thinking of getting her a new enclosure to treat it better now that I know what I’m doing. But how can I show her more love in easier ways?
 
#2 ·
Get a fleece carry bag with straps. You can put hedgehog in there and keep her with you while you do homework, etc. It's an easy way to get an hour or two of daily cuddle time even if you aren't directly interacting.
 
#3 ·
I HIGHLY recommend the bag! I have one for my hedgie and use it all the time. Also, I think it is great that you want to treat her the best you can! I would recommend setting a timer or alarm for a specific time of day, every day, and taking her out when it goes off, no matter if you want to or not. Just keep trying!
 
#4 ·
Also vouching for a bonding bag so you can easily spend time with her while doing other things.

I hate to be that person, but I also want to mention that it doesnt make you a terrible person if you feel as though she may be better of elsewhere. Hedgehogs can get messy, and not cleaning their cage frequently (and their wheels need to be cleaned every day!) can make for some very unhygienic living situations for your pet. Sometimes things dont work out, and I think its important to realise that thats okay - and if you find yourself struggling again, it may be worth considering rehoming her.

Getting her a new enclosure and spending more time with her is absolutely a great start; perhaps setting an alarm to spot clean her every day, so you dont let it build up and become an even bigger job to tackle in one go, would be beneficial for you too.