Hedgehogs can run in hamster balls; however, hedgehogs are known to be escape artists, so they may not stay in the ball for long. A hedgehog will run in the ball either because it is happy or sometimes looking for a way to escape. Keep an eye on your hedgehog while it is in the ball to ensure it does not escape and become lost.
In this blog post, I will take a closer look at these creatures and learn more about their behavior. I will also explore the question of whether or not hedgehogs run in balls.
Do Hedgehogs Run in Balls?
Hedgehogs tend to have very poor eyesight; when you place them in a ball, they depend on their ears and sense of smell to help them get around. You will often see a hedgehog running in circles inside the ball until it gets used to its new surroundings.
Hedgehogs will also use their nose to help them find food or water inside the ball.
Hedgehogs are not built for long-distance running, so they usually only run in the ball for short periods. If you want your hedgehog to get some exercise, you can try placing the ball on a slope or in an area where the hedgehog has to run to get to its food or water.
Why Do Hedgehogs Run in Balls
Here are some reasons why hedgehogs run in balls:
Exploring their Surroundings
Hedgehogs are curious creatures, and they like to explore their surroundings. When you place a hedgehog in a ball, it will often run around the ball to explore its new environment.
Looking for an Escape Route
Hedgehogs are known to be escape artists, so sometimes, they run in the ball because they are looking for a way to escape. If you see your hedgehog running in the ball and it seems to be going around in circles, it is likely looking for a way out.
Running for Exercise
Hedgehogs are not built for long-distance running, but they still need to get exercise. When you place the ball on a slope or in an area where the hedgehog has to run to get to its food or water, it will help the hedgehog get the exercise it needs.
Running Because they are Happy
When you see a hedgehog running in the ball, it could just be that the hedgehog is happy and wants to run. Hedgehogs are not known for being very active creatures, so when you see one running in the ball, it is a good sign that the hedgehog is happy and healthy.
Mental Stimulation
Running in the ball can also provide mental stimulation for hedgehogs. Hedgehogs are not very active creatures, so running in the ball can help to keep their minds active and healthy.
Dangers of Hedgehogs Running in Balls
As much as running has its benefits for hedgehogs, there are also some dangers that you need to be aware of. Here are some of the dangers of hedgehogs running in balls:
Small Air Slits
Balls have small air slits to allow air to circulate inside the ball. When running, the hedgehog’s nails or toes can get caught in these slits and cause the hedgehog to trip.
Escape Artists
Hedgehogs are known to be escape artists, so if you are not careful, they can escape from the ball and become lost. Make sure to keep an eye on your hedgehog while it is running in the ball, and make sure the ball is in a safe area where the hedgehog cannot escape.
Dehydration
Hedgehogs can easily become dehydrated, so it is important to ensure there is water available for the hedgehog to drink while running in the ball. If you are using the ball on a slope or in an area where the hedgehog has to run to get to its food or water, make sure the hedgehog has a way to get back to the water dish after it has eaten or drunk.
Exhaustion
Hedgehogs can also become exhausted from running in the ball. If you see your hedgehog panting or slowing down, it is a sign that the hedgehog is getting tired and needs a break.
Make sure to give your hedgehog a break from running in the ball every so often, and ensure it has water access to prevent dehydration.
Do Hedgehogs Get Motion Sickness?
Hedgehogs are not known to get motion sickness. However, they can become dizzy if they run in the ball for too long. If you notice your hedgehog starting to run in circles or appearing dizzy, it is best to let it out of the ball for a rest.
Things To Watch Out for When the Hedgehogs Run in Balls
You need to watch out for the following things when the hedgehogs run in balls:
Keep Them Away from Staircases
Staircases or any other surface where the hedgehog can fall and hurt itself should be avoided. If they fall, they could seriously injure themselves or even die.
Keep an Eye on Them
You should always keep an eye on your hedgehogs running in the ball. This way, you can ensure they are safe and not in danger.
Give Them a Break
Hedgehogs need to rest every so often, so make sure to give them a break from running in the ball. Let them out of the ball for a few minutes to rest and drink some water.
Ensure There is Water Available
As hedgehogs can easily become dehydrated, it is important to ensure water is available for them to drink while running in the ball.
Hedgehogs in Balls FAQs
Are balls safe for hedgehogs?
Balls are safe for hedgehogs as long as you take some precautions. Make sure the ball is in a safe area where the hedgehog cannot escape, and watch out for small air slits that the hedgehog’s nails or toes can get caught in.
Can Hedgehogs Escape from Balls?
Hedgehogs are known to be escape artists, so it is important to keep an eye on them while they are in the ball. If the ball has a hole or opening that is big enough for the hedgehog to fit through, it will likely try to escape.
You can prevent your hedgehog from escaping by placing the ball in an area where it cannot find a way out or by covering the ball’s opening with tape.
Is it cruel to put a hedgehog in a ball?
No, it is not cruel to put hedgehogs in balls. Hedgehogs enjoy running in balls, providing them with some exercise. However, you should take some precautions to ensure the hedgehog’s safety, such as keeping an eye on it and giving it a break from running every so often.
Not all hedgehogs are the same, though. Some hedgehogs may not like running in balls, so it is best to observe your hedgehog’s behavior to see if they enjoy running in the ball. If your hedgehog does not seem to enjoy running in the ball, then you should not force it to do so.
Final Thoughts
Running in the ball is a great way for hedgehogs to get exercise and mental stimulation. However, there are some dangers that you need to be aware of, such as dehydration, exhaustion, and escape artists.
Keep an eye on your hedgehog while running in the ball, and give it a break every so often. I hope you found this article helpful.
