African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris)

Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs are mammals that have been around for millions of years. These animals naturally live through most of Africa and in southern Europe.

They are primarily insectivores, but will eat a variety of different animal and plant matter when available. They are nocturnal and spend most of the day sleeping and become active at dusk.

A hedgehog’s most distinctive trait are his quills. Quills are sharp hollow hairs that are used as a defense. When threatened, a hedgehog is able to curl up into a ball with its quills extended.

The quills usually have white tips with brown bands and act as camouflage. Other color variations can be brown, black, cream, gray, and even albino.

Hedgehogs as Pets

The African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) is the most common type sold as pets. It can grow to be around six to nine inches long. Four to six years is a normal life span, but a pet hedgehog can live up to ten years. It is a solitary animal and should live alone.

A hedgehog is a very active animal. He will require a large cage even though he is small. Fortunately, there are many cages of adequate size available for reasonable prices. He will also need time outside of his cage to explore and run around.

Since hedgehogs are nocturnal, they are best for people who are home in the evenings and at night. A hedgehog may not be a suitable pet for small children. Sometimes kids can be overzealous with their affection causing a hedgehog to become afraid and extend his quills. This could lead to injury of a child or pet.

A hedgehog is fun to watch, quiet, not aggressive, and is fairly easy to care for. It is a clean animal and has very little smell. His food is easily attainable and inexpensive. A hedgehog can be a wonderful addition for someone who wants a unique and entertaining pet.

Care Sheet

A hedgehog needs the correct food and a proper habitat to live a long, happy, and healthy life. Before bringing him home you should have his cage set up and ready with food available. Below is a list of items you will need to care for your pet.

Habitat

A cage that is at least 4 feet long and 2 feet wide. That is the minimum size so go with the biggest cage possible. Multi-level cages are a good way to increase your pet’s space.

Bedding for the bottom of the cage. Bedding made from recycled paper or pulp is a good choice.

A hide area where you pet can go to feel safe and secure.

A small animal litter box.

Litter for the litter box. Litter pellets made from recycled paper work well and are safe.

A stoppered water bottle. A heavy bowl can be used as an alternative if your hedgehog doesn’t like a water bottle.

A couple of bowls for dry and moist food. The bowls should be attachable to the cage or heavy enough to prevent spilling.

An exercise wheel, preferably one with a solid wheel to prevent possible injury.

A variety of toys and decor to keep your pet entertained. Examples are pipes, tubes, tunnels, ramps, ledges, balls, and bells.

A small animal playpen for when your hedgehog is out of his cage.

Food

A dry hedgehog food or cat food that is high in protein and made from meat or chicken.

Canned cat or dog food to supply your pet with moist food. The food should be high in protein and made from meat or chicken.

Fruits and vegetables that can be added to your pet’s diet. Beans, peas, corn, apples, grapes, and carrots are some of the foods you can feed your hedgehog in small amounts.

Various treats to add variety to the diet. Treats can be insects like mealworms and crickets, moist dog or cat treats, and cooked food like hamburger, chicken, or eggs

Courtesy: http://hedgehogcare.org/

Categories: Mammals-Eulipotyphla-Erinaceidae