Are the quills of a hedge hog touchable??

Question

please add a photo if possible

Answer 1

The most common species of domesticated hedgehog is the African Pygmy hedgehog, a hybrid of the White-bellied or Four-toed Hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) and the Algerian Hedgehog (A. algirus). It is smaller than the European Hedgehog, and thus is sometimes called African Pygmy Hedgehog. Other species kept as pets are the Egyptian long-eared hedgehog (Hemiechinus auritus auritus) and the Indian long-eared hedgehog (Hemiechinus collaris).

Hedgehog domestication began in the early 1980s. They still have much of their wild behavior, including a fear of predators - especially humans, but buying from a responsible breeder and proper handling will do a lot to ensure a friendly relationship. Since domestication began, several new colours of hedgehogs have been created or become common, including albino and pinto hedgehogs.

Domesticated species prefer a warm climate (above 22°C , 72°F) and do not naturally hibernate. Attempts to hibernate due to lowered body temperatures can be fatal, but are easily reversed if caught quickly. In the wild they eat a diet of mainly insects, but pet owners generally prefer a diet composed primarily of high protein low fat high quality cat food, with regular treats such as mealworms, fruits, vegetables, and cooked unseasoned meats

well assume that these quills wont harm u

Answer 2

Gradually their quills will smooth out with time, but you should hold them with gloves until them. Eventually they will calm down and their quills will relax.

But yes their quills will hurt if they poke you, but you can touch them eventually.

Here's pictures.

http://www.istockphoto.com/file_thumbvie...

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/10/121452...