Hedgehogs are cute. And a lot of people enjoy them as pets. I get it. Even their most common malady, Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome, sounds cute, although it isn’t at all pleasant for the hedgehog.
The thing is, they can give you salmonella. The problem is their feces. They run on wheels for several hours a day, defecating all the while. Then you pick them up and, well, you get the idea. This year, as of September 22nd, there have been 32 infections in 17 states related to hedgehogs, according to this article. Five of those people have been hospitalized.
The article goes on to say that “common symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps anywhere from six hours to six days after exposure. The illness can last up to a week.” Delightful. Other pets that can give you salmonella are bearded dragons and turtles.
I feel strongly about choosing pets that aren’t going to put me in the hospital. I’m funny that way. But if you insist on getting them anyway, at the very least, wash your hands constantly, clean their cages daily, and for the love of God, don’t kiss them or let them run around on your kitchen counter.
An attitude of gratitude is what you need to get along. Read my book! http://amzn.to/2mlPVh5
The View from a Drawbridge 