I was trying to save a hedgehog to be eaten by rats
Dreams involving animals often reflect aspects of our subconscious, emotions, or situations in our waking life. In your dream, the hedgehog may symbolize vulnerability, defensiveness, or a desire to protect something innocent. Hedgehogs are known for their prickly defenses, so they can also represent feelings of needing to shield oneself or something dear to you from harm.
The rats could symbolize something negative or parasitic in your life—such as fears, anxieties, or perhaps people or situations that seem to undermine your security. The act of trying to save the hedgehog suggests that you may be grappling with the need to protect yourself or something you value from threats or challenges.
Overall, this dream may reflect a struggle with feeling overwhelmed by difficult circumstances or relationships, where you feel a duty to protect what is vulnerable. It could also indicate an internal conflict about whether to take action or to let go of certain concerns. Think about any current stresses or challenges you are facing, and how they relate to feelings of vulnerability or the need for protection.