general | April 13, 2026

Why are hedgehogs illegal in some states?

It is illegal to own a hedgehog as a pet in some jurisdictions in North America, and a license is needed to legally breed them. These restrictions may have been enacted due to the ability of some hedgehog species to carry foot and mouth disease, a highly contagious disease of cloven-hooved animals.

Where can you keep a hedgehog as pet?

Is It Legal to Own a Pet African Pygmy Hedgehog. Hedgehogs are legal in most of the United States. Unfortunately, hedgehogs are still illegal or restricted in California, Georgia, Hawaii, Pennsylvania, and New York City. New Jersey and Wisconsin require a permit or a certificate of health to own one.

Can you get hedgehogs in Australia?

There are no hedgehogs native to Australia and no living species native to the Americas (the extinct genus Amphechinus was once present in North America).

Are hedgehogs legal in Canada?

There are two basic species usually sold as pets: the African pygmy and the European hedgehog. In Canada, “hedgies,” (as enthusiasts call them) are legal to own in most provinces, with the exception of Quebec, where European hedgehogs are illegal but African pygmies are allowed.

Why are hamsters banned in Australia?

If you ask why hamsters are banned in Australia, the reason the Australian government gives is that hamsters for them are seen as pests! The authorities say that hamsters may then reproduce so much that they will then affect the flora and fauna negatively and so hamsters are a threat in Australia!

Are hedgehogs good pets?

Hedgehogs can be a fun and low-maintenance pet for your household, but they do need some special care. They have sharp quills that can make handling difficult. Consistent and proper daily handling will help them relax and feel comfortable with you.

Is it cruel to have a hedgehog as a pet?

So, is it cruel to keep a hedgehog as a pet? There is no harm in deciding to keep a pet hedgehog, as long as you love and care for it as you would any other pet. Many people decide to keep African Pygmy hedgehogs as pets, and they need more care and maintenance than other pets.

What pets are not allowed in Australia?

Prohibited mammals foxes • squirrels • ferrets/polecats/stoats • rabbits • hamsters • monkeys/marmosets • gerbils • weasels • dingoes.

What are hamsters illegal in Australia?

Australia doesn’t allow the importation of hamsters and hedgehogs because it can hurt the native wildlife. Native wildlife which is already under threat from rabbits and foxes.

Can you own a wolf in Australia?

Is it legal to have a wolf in Australia? It is not legal to own a wolf in Australia. It’s actually illegal to own a dog with any wolf blood in it in Australia. If you want a wolf-looking dog, get a Tamaskan.

What pets are illegal in Australia?

Do hedgehogs play bite?

Hedgehogs do not normally bite as a main form of defense or aggression. When they are scared, frightened, or defensive they traditionally raise their spikes and curl in a ball.