African Pygmy Hedgehogs basic care

The African Pygmy Hedgehog originates from Central Africa and have been Domesticated in North America for several years.Hedgehogs are a wise choice for those who have hair and dander allergies. They also produce little odour.

The hedgehog is covered with quills similar to a porcupine, but the hedgehog cannot eject these quill when frightened. To protect itself the hedgehog curls up in a ball, standing its quills on end. The hedgehog might puff air to jab at its attacker. Once the hedgehog has been tame; it will no longer do this defensive action, and thus makes it easy to pick up with bare hands. They are solitary animals and prefer to be on their own. Hedgehogs can live to be 7 years old and there are not many problems with keeping them. They do not require vaccinations, but an injection for mites could be a good idea. This can be done at the Veterinarian.

Housing

Hedgehogs must be kept in a draft-free area. A great suggestion would be a glass aquarium. The bottom of the cage should be cleaned twice weekly. The corn cob does not collect in the hedgehogs' quills. The hedgehog should have a hiding space, as it sleeps most of the day.

Feeding

Hedgehogs can feed on Dry Low Fat Cat Food such as Iams Kitten and Cat Food. Soon we will have a formulated diet specifically for hedgehogs. They also feed on Earthworms, Mealworms, slugs, and other bugs. They should have fresh drinking water daily.

Breeding

These animals are quite easy to breed. The female is ready to breed at the age of 4 months. She is stimulated into breeding by having a male in the same cage. Once the female has been impregnated, the male must be removed from the cage. The female will be pregnant for approximately 35 days. There are usually 3 to 5 babies born to each litter. Babies will start to eat solid foods at about 4 weeks, and should be weaned by 6 weeks of age.