Self Anointing
Hedgehogs have a remarkable habit called "self-anointing" which can be somewhat startling the first time an owner sees it happening. Particular smells seem to send the hedgehog into a flurry contortions as it starts to salivate profusely and spread the saliva over its back. No one is entirely sure why hedgehogs do this and some seem more prone to it than others, but it is not a cause for concern.
Maintenance
Fairly low maintenance pets, and while they don't mind handling once used to it they don't really seem to "crave" human interaction.
Insectivores
They are considered primarily insectivores (insects make up the largest part of their natural diet).
