A growing number of people are adopting hedgehogs as pets because of their unusual appearance and endearing dispositions. However, knowing the many kinds, and their unique needs for care is necessary to select the best kind of hedgehog for your house. We’ll look at the different kinds of hedgehogs in this extensive guide, along with advice on how to care for one to have a happy and healthy companion.
African Pygmy Hedgehog
The most prevalent species of hedgehog kept as a pet is the African Pygmy. These hedgehogs are tiny; their usual weight is from 300 to 600 gramss, and their length is 6 to 8 inches. They have a soft underbelly and a spherical body covered in quills.
- Personality: African Pygmy Hedgehogs are renowned for being kind and inquisitive. They can develop a strong bond with their owners if given the right care.
- Lifespan: They usually survive three to five years, but with the right care, some can live up to seven years.
European Hedgehog
Compared to their African counterparts, European hedgehogs can grow up to 12 inches in length and weigh between 1 and 2 kilograms. They are covered in a mixture of brown and white quills, and their physique is more robust.
- Personality: Compared to African Pygmy Hedgehogs, these hedgehogs tend to be more reclusive and less tolerant of handling.
- Lifespan: In captivity, European hedgehogs can live for five to seven yearsor even longer with the right care.
Long-Eared Hedgehog
Long-eared hedgehogs are easily identified by their very enormous ears, as their name implies. At 400 to 700 grams in weight and 8 to 10 inches in length, they are larger than African Pygmy Hedgehogs but smaller than European Hedgehogs.
- Personality: It is well known that long-eared hedgehogs are gregarious and energetic animals. They can be harder to train, but if you are patient, they can make loving pets.
- Lifespan: They can live for four to six years, although under ideal circumstances, they could live longer.
How to Take Care of a Hedgehog
Housing
- Enclosure: African Pygmy Hedgehogs require an enclosure that is at least two feet by three feet in size. For European and Long-Eared Hedgehogs, a greater area is advised. Make sure the enclosure is escape-proof and has a sturdy floor.
- Bedding: Make use of bedding that is soft and absorbent, such as aspen shavings or recycled paper. Shadings of pine and cedar should be avoided as they may be toxic to hedgehogs.
- Hiding Spots: To make them feel secure and to imitate their natural habitat, create tunnels and hiding places.
Temperature and Lighting
- Temperature: The ideal temperature range for hedgehogs is 72°F to 80°F (22°C to 27°C). To keep the temperature at the proper level, use a heating pad or a ceramic heat emitter. Heat lights should not be used as they can overheat and burn people.
- Lighting: 12 to 14 hours a day of steady light should be provided. Set a timer to make sure the lighting is consistent, as this helps control their innate behaviors. .
Diet
- Commercial Food: Hedgehogs should mostly eat high-quality commercial food which is readily available. Steer clear of those that use a lot of fillers and look for ones that indicate meat as the primary ingredient.
- Insects: Since hedgehogs are insectivores, add live or freeze-dried insects such as mealworms, crickets, and waxworms to their diet.
- Fruits and Vegetables: As treats, provide modest portions of fruits and vegetables. Carrots, apples, and leafy greens are good choices. Steer clear of citrus fruits and items that are poisonous to hedgehogs.
- Water: Give your pet fresh water every day in a shallow dish or a small animal-specific water bottle.
Socialization and Handling
- Bonding: To establish familiarity and trust, spend some time each day handling and communicating with your hedgehog. Move gently and let them investigate your hands and the area around them.
- Handling: Approach your hedgehog softly and slowly at all times. While supporting their body and avoiding abrupt movements that can frighten them, scoop them up from underneath.
Health Care
- Veterinary Care: For routine examinations and any health issues, seek out a veterinarian who has worked with hedgehogs before. Skin diseases, dental troubles, and obesity are common health problems.
- Quill Loss: In young hedgehogs, quilling periods are particularly common, but occasional quill loss is normal. Nonetheless, excessive quill loss should be examined by a veterinarian as it may be a sign of stress or health problems.
- Exercise: Give hedgehogs access to a wheel made especially for them. Engaging in regular physical activity encourages brain stimulation and helps prevent obesity.
Enrichment
- Toys: Provide your hedgehog with an assortment of toys to maintain mental and physical stimulation. Chew toys, tunnels, and interactive toys that promote foraging are among the options.
- Explore: Give your hedgehog time under supervision in a secure, contained space when they’re not in their enclosure. They can explore and exercise in a new setting thanks to this.
Choosing the Right Hedgehog for You
Choose the sort of hedgehog that best suits your needs by taking into account the following factors:
- Space: Make sure you have adequate room to meet the unique requirements of the kind of hedgehog you have selected. For example, European hedgehogs need bigger enclosures than African Pygmy Hedgehogs.
- Time and Commitment: Hedgehogs need daily care and attention, which takes time and commitment. For those who are new to owning hedgehogs, African Pygmy Hedgehogs are a good choice because they are typically simpler to handle and form bonds with.
- Handling Preferences: The African Pygmy Hedgehog might be your best option if you’d like a more engaging pet. The European Hedgehog might be a better option for people who prefer to observe over to handle.
- Allergies: Take into account any possible allergies to mattress fabrics or pet dander. In the event that you are concerned about pet allergies, seek medical advice.
Conclusion
Every species of hedgehog has different traits and needs for upkeep, making them interesting and entertaining pets. With sufficient knowledge of the various kinds of hedgehogs and how to care for them, you can guarantee a happy and satisfying bond with your spiny friend. Providing your hedgehog with a caring and well-maintained home is essential to its health and happiness, regardless of whether you choose an African Pygmy Hedgehog for its amiable disposition or a European Hedgehog for its intriguing behaviors..
