The African Pygmy Hedgehog is the ultimate low-maintenance animal that you have ever seen, one of a kind, or you can say adorable. These small, night-active animals are becoming increasingly popular in the U.S. as pets, and not without a reason. They are calm and aloof and are quite easy to keep. They are suitable for residents that live in apartments or any other person who wants a pet that is a little special.
In the following comprehensive guide, we will discuss all the facts about the African Pygmy Hedgehog, starting with its history and behavior and then further proceeding with the care.
African Pygmy Hedgehogs What Are They?
Smaller mammal African The pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventrius) is a species native to central and eastern Africa. It is a hybrid species, being a cross between the four-toed hedgehog and the Algerian hedgehog, bred selectively to make it domesticated and apt to keep as a pet.
They usually range in weight from 300 to 600 grams (approximately 0.66 to 1.3 pounds) and reach as large as 6-9 inches. They are covered with short, sharp spines and have furry underbellies. Their appearance and naturally docile nature are very different from conventional small pets.
What Makes African Pygmy Hedgehogs Become Popular in the USA?
The African Pygmy Hedgehogs have risen to become an exotic pet fad in the US over the last ten years. Here's why:
Reduced Size: Ideal for fitting in small dwelling places.
Low allergen risk: They do not emit dander such as cats or dogs.
Silent and Fragrance-Free: Hedgehogs are clean, and they do not smell as long as their cages are clean.
One-of-a-kind Bonding: They do develop full bonds with their humans even when they are alone.
It should be noted, though, that hedgehogs are prohibited or limited in certain states and cities of the U.S., including California, Georgia, Hawaii, and New York City. Check the local laws before taking one home at all times.
Housing and Habitat: Developing the perfect home
Cage Requirements
It is the atrophy of the African Pygmy Hedgehog that requires room to move around. It is suggested that there should be at least 2-4 square feet of floor space. The best are wire cages, which have a plastic bottom, or massive plastic containers with perforations.
To avoid: Glass aquariums—they hold the heat and slow down the airflow.
Heat/lighting
Hedgehogs are cold-sensitive. Their climate should be maintained at 72-80 degrees F to avoid an attempt to hibernate, which is deadly. Have a ceramic heat emitter with a thermostat to be able to maintain a constant temperature.
Use a little lamp or natural light that supplies 12 hours of light per day.
Bedding
Take bedding made of paper or use fleece liners. Put away wood shavings (particularly cedar and pine) because they can result in respiratory difficulty.
Feeding and Eating: What do African pygmy hedgehogs consume?
A healthy diet for a hedgehog ought to include:
High protein
Fat-free
Different and fruitful
Main Diet
Top-quality, hedgehog-specific kibble or low-fat cat food (dry) should form the basis of their diet. Among the constituents, find out the protein content that is more than 30 percent and the amount of fat that is less than 15 percent.
Treats and Supplements
Others are also capable of providing
Crickets and mealworms (as high-protein snacks)
Boiled chicken or eggs (without seasonings)
Moderate intakes of fruits (such as apples or bananas)
Veggies (such as peas or carrots) sometimes
Nephew: Grapes, raisins, avocado, onions, chocolate, and seasoned or spicy foods.
Behavior and Handling: The Development of Trust
African pygmy hedgehogs are active at night, and they are most active in the evening. They are shy in nature and, although being handled daily, can get affectionate and inquisitive.
Advice on Bonding
Wait and insist.
Touch your hedgehog regularly every day and preferably at the same time.
Allow them to experiment in a safe environment under your watch.
When they are asleep, talk to them softly so that they will get used to your voice.
Initially your hedgehog might curl into a ball or hiss—it is their protection method. Later on they will start to rest and even jump to the top.
Health and Wellness: Happy Hedgehog
The African Pygmy Hedgehogs are robust animals, which nevertheless have several health problems:
Health Concerns Common
Obesity: Keep check of their weight and do not overfeed.
Mites: The symptoms are scratching beyond normal or loss of quills.
Dental Disease: Offer dry food as a means of maintaining healthy teeth.
Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS): A neurological disease that carries no cure; breeding with healthy lines will lower the risk.
Make a regular annual retreat with an exotics vet. The majority of general veterinarians are not trained in hedgehog care, so ensure that your veterinarian is experienced.
Cleaning and Maintenance
It is very important that your hedgehog is clean.
Daily Tasks:
Spot-clean droppings.
Restock food and water.
Weekly Tasks:
Wash out the whole cage.
Clean toys and paraphernalia.
Clear bed liners or sheets.
Bathing:
Depending on the situation, bathe your hedgehog once per month. Make use of tepid water without the use of scented baby shampoo or specialized small animal wash. A toothbrush is good to clean in between the quills.
Breeding and Life Span
Lifespan
A well-taken African Pygmy Hedgehog lives 3-6 years. It is a factor of genetics, diet, and environment.
Breeding
Only experienced ethical breeders should practice breeding. The female counterparts may be violent towards the male, and in addition, poor breeding may cause genetic disorders.
How to buy an African Pygmy Hedgehog in America
You also have to decide to adopt an animal; you can seek a reputable breeder, or you can even check Lollo rescuers. Do not purchase pets at pet shops that cannot give sufficient background and health details.
Look for:
Health guarantees
Socialized hedgehogs
Informed help after the sale
Most breeders sell them for between 100 and 300 dollars, so you should expect to pay that.
Final Thoughts Were the African Pygmy Hedgehogs the Right Pet?
The African pygmy hedgehog is an extremely exotic pet that provides a good experience to the owner who is well suited. They are self-reliant, quirky, and adorable creatures but also need to be carefully looked after, particularly with temperature, diet, and togetherness.
Best Suited To:
Night owls
Allergy sufferers
Small-space dwellers
To pet lovers who wanted something new
No Good At:
Young children
Individuals who have little time in everyday communication
Anyone residing in an outlawed state
In case you are willing to get into the world of exotic animals, the African Pygmy Hedgehog may be the best spiky animal you could ever have.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is an African Pygmy Hedgehog a good pet?
True, they are wonderful to those people who realize their own special needs and are ready to be responsible caregivers.
Q: Is it possible to hold two hedgehogs in one?
No. These are solitary animals and can become aggressive when kept in the same enclosure.
Q: Are hedgehogs smelly?
Not inherently. Proper diet and a clean cage are odor-proof.
Q: Do they have legal issues in my state?
Ask the fish and wildlife department in your state.
Comments
Post a Comment