African Pygmy Hedgehog

African Pygmy Hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris), also known as Four-toed Hedgehogs, are a unique small mammalian pet native to central Africa. Fully grown they range between 6 and 12 inches in length and typically live between 4 and 6 years in captivity. This solitary species can grow to be quite affectionate with frequent interaction and handling but can become standoffish if neglected. Hedgehogs are recommended only for those with ample time to interact and care for them, and are not recommended for small children.

Hedgehogs can be difficult to handle at first but bond strongly to caretakers who interact with them frequently and consistently. Neglecting handling results in very difficult-to-work-with animals. They have poor eyesight but a keen sense of smell — be cautious when handling if food scents are present, as they may bite. Hedgehogs are also known to anoint their quills with saliva after smelling or tasting something particularly interesting.

Offer fresh water daily. Offer fresh food daily. Clean the running wheel daily. Spot-check the enclosure. Handle your hedgehog regularly to maintain tameness and bonding.

Hedgehogs are insectivores by nature and primarily eat a dry kibble diet supplemented with live or dried insect feeders. • Primary Diet — Appropriate hedgehog kibble such as Spike's Complete, Exotic Nutrition, or Zoopro. • Secondary Diets & Alternate Proteins — Insectivore-Fare by Exotic Nutrition is an excellent supplement. Other good proteins: cooked poultry, hard-boiled eggs, live insect feeders, dried insect feeders. • Fruits & Vegetables — Beans, peas, corn, carrots, apples, and blueberries. • Picky Eaters — Chicken or turkey flavored baby food can encourage eating; mix with kibble or other diets. • Water Note — When taking home baby hedgehogs, mix flavorless clear Pedialyte with water in a 50/50 ratio for the first week to help avoid stress-related diarrhea.

Hedgehogs require a medium to large enclosure despite their small size. Minimum: 30"x18" cage or 40-gallon tank. Ideal: 48"x24" cage or 75-gallon tank. Enclosure must include: • Running wheel • A hide • Food and water dishes • Toys for enrichment • Paper-based bedding or a fleece liner

Hedgehogs are nocturnal and do not fare well in the cold. Keep between 75°F and 85°F at all times. Below this range the hedgehog may become inactive and get sick. Above this range they will burrow to escape heat. Best heating methods: black light heating bulb or ceramic heat emitter. No special humidity requirements.

NJ Exotic Pets recommends Paws, Wings & Scales — Christopher F. Stancel, DVM. 125 Paterson Ave, Suite 1, Little Falls, NJ 07424. Phone: (973) 638-1180. Email: pwsanimalhospital@gmail.com. Annual check-ups are highly recommended. Cleaning: Wheel must be cleaned daily. Enclosure cleaned at least once weekly. Use only unscented or mildly scented cleaners — heavily scented or chemical cleaners will make the animal sick. Clean hedgehog items separately from dishes. Wash hands before and after handling. Bathing: Required at least once a month and no more than twice a month. Use a soft bristle toothbrush to clean between quills. Use baby shampoo or Dawn dish soap. Mites: All hedgehogs at NJ Exotic Pets are treated with Revolution (flea, tick & mite preventative) before going home. Keep enclosure accessories clean to avoid reinfestation.

Hedgehogs are nocturnal — most activity will happen at night. They require consistent, frequent handling to remain tame. They are not recommended for small children. They need a reliable heat source to stay in the 75–85°F range at all times. Commitment to daily care, cleaning, and regular interaction is essential for a happy, friendly hedgehog.