A Day In The Hedgehog’s Life

There are about 16 species of hedgehogs that are divided into five genera, and some of them can be poisonous. Native to Spain, North Africa and southern France, these small animals have now been domesticated; an example of this phenomenon is the African pygmy hedgehog species, which has grown in popularity in recent years and is frequently found in pet shops.

Hedgehogs of the African pygmy species are classified as domestic animals. They usually measure 16 centimeters in maximum width and weigh no more than 400 grams. Although they are usually quite solitary, hedgehogs seek interaction with people, they are very calm and tender and children love to stroke them.

Some data

The degree of intelligence of hedgehogs is similar to that of hamsters. They usually rush when called, and actively seek human interaction. These little animals can learn some basic behaviors through a positive or a conditioned effort. Their personality is created and shaped through interaction with their owner.

Taking care of these furry little animals and keeping up with their needs is essential for successful socialization. They must have a clean living area and must not be exposed to noise, which can be torture for them.

Once the hedgehog has made contact with his space, he will definitely be a little stressed out. Changing the environment in which you live is never easy, so it is recommended to be patient until he has adapted.

Hedgehogs are not rodents and do not have a propensity to bite, gnaw, or destroy surrounding things. They are not aggressive either. The thorns serve them as a defense only when they are scared, nervous or feel the need to protect themselves.

Females go through a gestation period ranging from 35 to 43 days. The average number of puppies delivered is four, but it can go up to seven. Babies and their mothers are not to be touched until they are one week old, and once they are one and a half months old they can be put up for adoption.

How to take care of a hedgehog

Probably the first time you come into contact with a hedgehog you will handle it like a cactus, due to its spines. All this will only last as long as you get used to it, in the meantime caress it gently.

Curls do not bark or make loud noises. You may see them playing in the wheel, but generally they are very quiet animals, a little shy. They are used to the nightlife and during the day they usually snuggle into a ball shape.

Cage cleaning should be done weekly, but in some cases the curls can be quite messy and may need more frequent cleaning. To be appropriate, the cage of these creatures must be quite large, with a space of approximately 26 centimeters wide.

Unlike cats and dogs, these types of pets are a great option for those people who suffer from allergies. They don’t even need continuous vaccines or veterinary visits. One per year will be enough.

Hedgehogs eat insects, but if you can’t get them you can replace them with cans of dog food or cat food. The best thing is that you routinely change their food to make sure it covers all their nutritional needs. Fresh water cannot be lacking for this type of animals. Use a drinking trough to hang to prevent it from tipping over.

They don’t need excessive physical activity. They love to play with the wheel and don’t have to bathe frequently. Some hedgehogs will need to take a bath when stool builds up on their feet, but most of them usually wash themselves by licking.

Tips for living with hedgehogs

The more you know about curls, the better you will be able to understand them and meet their needs ; the best way to do this is to observe them, to recognize their needs and their subtle communication methods.

As we have said, hedgehogs are quite shy animals, but once they become familiar with men they will be able to interact without inconvenience. To achieve this, you need to be very sweet and patient. You have to be willing to accept everything your hedgehog has to offer you. He may not respond to your orders at times, but the affection he can give you will make him an enchanting animal.

Do not let the hedgehog become the toy of other pets in the house, such as the dog or cat. Check how they interact with each other and make sure that the baby’s cage is always closed.