It is a cross between the Four Toed Hedgehog and the Algerian Hedgehog. They originated in Nigeria and the continent of Africa. During the roaring 1990s, the markets demanded these small animals in bulk for all the right reasons.
It may or may not be illegal to keep African Pygmy Hedgehogs as pets, depending on the area in which you reside. Therefore, let’s learn more about them and determine if these small creatures make suitable pets.
Where and how should I maintain an African Pygmy Hedgehog?
African Pygmy Hedgehogs are smaller than their European counterparts. However, they prefer to occupy a great deal of space and remain warm. A vivarium can house your new best friend.
It is recommended to set up the vivarium because it will only increase the available space. Inside the vivarium, you can use fleece for both the floor and the bedding. A wheel placed in the litter box is a good idea. Surprisingly, this is because your new pet enjoys defecating while running on the wheel.
As exotic animals, African Pygmy Hedgehogs wish to maintain their body temperature. Therefore, you must make preparations for ceramic heat emitters. The African Pygmy Hedgehog achieves the ideal temperature when it can heat or cool itself according to its desires.
Place the heat source only in one corner in order to create a gradient. You may also provide your pet with small toys. They adore playing.
What should my African Pygmy Hedgehog eat?
Mealworms and cat biscuits are the preferred foods of your African Pygmy Hedgehogs. You can also feed them other forms of living food. Always keep in mind that you cannot feed them fish. It is detrimental to their digestion.
Ensure that you do not overfeed your new pet. They are extremely likely to become obese. Therefore, provide them with only the amount of food they need to survive and ensure they exercise daily. Your African Pygmy Hedgehog can cover five miles per night on its wheels. Consider this to ensure that your new pet is healthy.
Do African Pygmy Hedgehogs have an odor?
African Pygmy Hedgehogs are odiferous animals. They like to make a mess. As you clean their shelters, you will need to wear a mask due to the stench of their excrement. As previously mentioned, they want to defecate while running on the wheel. So, their enclosure is covered in feces. Additionally, their feet and quills become soiled.
To provide the best care, you must muster the courage to regularly clean the shelter and the hedgehog yourself. This is the only way to maintain a healthy and pleasant-smelling African Pygmy Hedgehog.
How loud are African Pygmy Hedgehogs?
African Pygmy Hedgehogs are nocturnal creatures. This is how long they run on the wheel. Thus, this is the only audible trait of these adorable animals. Aside from this, they are silent during the day.
If you want to sleep peacefully through the night, unlike your new pet, we advise you to keep the shelter of your African Pygmy Hedgehog outside of your bedroom.
Are African Pygmy Hedgehogs low maintenance?
The definitive answer is no. African Pygmy Hedgehogs require extensive care. The vivarium and heating equipment will be expensive, but they are essential to the survival of your new pet.
This animal must see an exotics veterinarian, who charges more than regular veterinarians. This is due to the exposure of African Pygmy Hedgehogs to mites, cancer, and Wobble Head Syndrome.
Before bringing an African Pygmy Hedgehog into your home, you must ensure that you have access to a competent exotics veterinarian.
How long do African Pygmy Hedgehogs live?
African Pygmy Hedgehogs have a lifespan of between three and six years. However, they are susceptible to numerous health issues. Consequently, you must take excellent care of them.
Does the African Pygmy Hedgehog enjoy cuddling?
If you want African Pygmy Hedgehogs to be affectionate and close to you, they must be trained. Friendliness is not an essential trait. However, these animals indicate when they enjoy being touched. They will put down their quills.
If they do not want you near them, they will become agitated and begin to puff at you.
Why do African Pygmy Hedgehogs produce mouth foam?
African Pygmy Hedgehogs produce foam in their mouths and rotate their heads. This is referred to as anointing. This is typical. However, it is unknown why they behave in this manner.
Where can one acquire an African Pygmy Hedgehog?
It would be beneficial if you adopted animals rather than purchasing them. You can form stronger bonds with them in this manner. Therefore, you can search for them at a local exotic animal rescue.