African Pygmy Hedgehog Care Guide

African Pygmy Hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris hybrids) are small, nocturnal insectivores known for their coat of sharp quills. They require specific care, particularly regarding temperature, diet, and exercise. Maintaining a warm environment is crucial to prevent hibernation attempts, which can be fatal in captivity. They can make engaging pets but may be initially shy or defensive (curling into a ball).

Habitat & Enclosure

A spacious, secure, and warm enclosure is essential.

• Enclosure Type: Large plastic storage bins (like Sterilite 105 qt) or wire cages with solid bottoms (wire floors harm their feet) are common. Aquariums are generally unsuitable due to poor ventilation. Ensure adequate floor space (minimum 4 sq ft, bigger is better).
• Security: Hedgehogs can be good climbers; ensure the walls are high enough or the lid is secure. Provide good ventilation.
• Substrate/Bedding: Use paper-based bedding (like Carefresh), aspen shavings (kiln-dried pine is debated, avoid cedar), or fleece liners. Fleece requires frequent washing but reduces dust. Avoid dusty beddings. Depth should be sufficient for burrowing if using loose bedding.
• Hide House: Essential for security. Provide an enclosed hide like an igloo, wooden box, or fabric pouch where the hedgehog can sleep during the day.
• Food & Water Dishes: Use heavy ceramic dishes that cannot be easily tipped over. Water bottles can be used, but some hedgehogs prefer or only use bowls; check for proper function daily if using a bottle. Keep dishes clean.
• Exercise Wheel: **Absolutely essential** for exercise and preventing obesity. Must be a **solid surface** wheel (no wire mesh or bars, which cause injury). Recommended size is 11-12 inches in diameter. Clean the wheel regularly.
• Toys: Provide enrichment like toilet paper tubes, small cat balls (without small parts), or tunnels.

Temperature & Lighting

Maintaining warmth is critical for hedgehog health.

• Temperature: Keep the enclosure consistently warm, ideally between **74-80°F (23-27°C)**. Temperatures below 70°F (21°C) risk triggering dangerous hibernation attempts. Temperatures above 85°F (29°C) risk heatstroke.
• Heating Source: A Ceramic Heat Emitter (CHE) connected to a thermostat is the safest and most recommended method for maintaining consistent heat without emitting light. Place the probe near the cage floor. Heat pads under the tank are less effective and can pose burn risks if not regulated properly.
• Monitoring: Use a reliable thermometer inside the cage at hedgehog level to monitor temperature constantly.
• Lighting: Hedgehogs are nocturnal. They need a normal day/night cycle but prefer dim conditions. Avoid placing the cage in direct sunlight. No special lighting is required. Provide a dark hide house for daytime sleeping.

Diet & Nutrition

Hedgehogs are primarily insectivores but require a balanced diet.

• Base Diet: High-quality, meat-based dry cat food is commonly used as the staple. Look for formulas with:
  • High protein (30-35%)
  • Low fat (10-15%)
  • Named meat source as the first ingredient (e.g., chicken, turkey).
  • Avoid formulas with peas, corn, or excessive fillers high on the ingredient list.
  Some hedgehog-specific foods exist, but often cat food provides better nutrition; research specific recommended brands. Offer 1-2 tablespoons per day.
• Insects: Crucial part of the diet. Offer live or dried insects like mealworms, crickets, dubia roaches, or waxworms (sparingly, high fat) a few times per week. Gut-load live insects before feeding.
• Treats (Occasional & Small Amounts): Cooked, unseasoned meat (chicken, turkey), cooked eggs, small amounts of fruits (apple, banana, berries – avoid grapes/raisins), or vegetables (cooked peas, carrots). Introduce new foods slowly.
• Avoid: Nuts, seeds, dairy products, avocado, chocolate, onions, garlic, raw meat, citrus fruits, grapes/raisins.
• Water: Fresh, clean water must always be available in a bowl or bottle.

Handling & Socialization

Regular, gentle handling helps hedgehogs become accustomed to their owners.

• Quilling: Young hedgehogs go through “quilling,” where their baby quills fall out and are replaced by adult quills. This can be uncomfortable, making them more irritable. Handle gently during this time.
• Approach: Approach calmly. Scoop them up gently from underneath, supporting their body.
• Defensive Posture: Hedgehogs curl into a tight ball and raise their quills when scared. Be patient; wait for them to uncurl. You can use a towel or blanket initially if hesitant about the quills.
• Socialization: Handle your hedgehog daily, especially when young, for short periods (15-30 minutes) to build trust. Let them sit in your lap (with a blanket) or explore in a safe, supervised area.
• Temperament: Can range from grumpy to curious and friendly. Personality varies greatly between individuals.
• Hygiene: Wash hands before and after handling.

Health, Grooming & Cleaning

Maintaining a clean, warm environment is key to health.

• Common Issues: Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS – progressive neurological disease), obesity, mites (causing quill loss, flaky skin), respiratory infections, dental problems, foot injuries (“bumblefoot”), hibernation attempts, cancer.
• Veterinary Care: Find an exotic vet experienced with hedgehogs *before* you need one. Annual checkups are recommended.
• Grooming:
  • Bathing: Bathe occasionally (e.g., monthly or as needed) using warm water (just covering their feet) and a gentle, tear-free baby shampoo or oatmeal bath. Use a soft toothbrush to clean quills and feet. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely with a towel to prevent chilling.
  • Nail Trimming: Trim nails as needed using small animal clippers. Avoid the pink quick. This can be tricky; have styptic powder on hand in case of bleeding.
• Daily Cleaning: Remove waste, clean food/water dishes, clean exercise wheel.
• Weekly Cleaning: Change loose bedding or wash fleece liners. Wipe down cage surfaces.
• Deep Cleaning (Monthly): Thoroughly wash and disinfect the cage and all accessories using pet-safe cleaners. Rinse well.