A Day In The Life Of A Hedgehog
There are about 16 species of hedgehogs. They are divided into five genera and some species can become poisonous. Originally from Spain, North Africa and the South of France these small animals have been domesticated. An example of this is the African pygmy hedgehog species, which has become quite relevant in recent years and is often found in some pet stores.
Hedgehogs of the African pygmy species are classified as domestic animals. They are usually at most 16 centimeters long and weigh no more than 400 grams. Although they tend to be somewhat lonely, they seek interaction. They are very calm and cuddly and children do not resist touching them.
Some data
Hedgehogs have a degree of intelligence similar to a hamster. They tend to come when called and actively seek human interaction. At a basic level, these little animals can learn certain behaviors through positive reinforcement or conditioning. Its personality is shaped and molded through interaction with its owner.
Taking these furry little guys into account and being aware of their needs is essential for successful socialization. They must have their living area very clean and should not be exposed to noise as for them it is usually torture.
Once the hedgehog has arrived at your home, it will surely be somewhat stressed. Changing your environment is not usually easy, so it is advisable to be patient until you can adapt.
Hedgehogs are not rodents and they do not have a propensity to bite, gnaw, or destroy their environment. They are not aggressive either. Their spines are used for defense only when they are scared, nervous, or feel they have no reason to protect themselves.
Females have a gestation period of between 35 and 43 days. The average number of pups is four and can reach up to seven. Puppies and their mother should not be touched until they are one week old. Once they have reached the month and a half of life they can be given up for adoption.
How to care for a hedgehog?
Hedgehogs have thorns, surely the first times you come into contact you will handle it as if it were a cactus. But it is until he gets used to it, you should caress him gently.
Hedgehogs do not bark, nor do they make annoying noises. You may see him play on his wheel but they are usually very calm animals, a little shy. They are nocturnal and during the day they usually settle in a ball shape.
Cleaning the cage should be done weekly but perhaps some hedgehogs are messier and may require cleaning more frequently. His cage should be somewhat wide, a space of about 26 centimeters long is appropriate for this type of pets.
These types of animals, unlike cats or dogs, are a good pet option for those who suffer from allergies. They also do not require routine vaccinations or veterinary tests only annual veterinary checks.
Hedgehogs eat insects. But if it is difficult to get them, you can replace it with a can of dog food or some cat croquettes. The best thing is that you vary their food so that all their nutritional needs are covered. This type of animal cannot lack fresh water. Use a hanging drinker so you don’t tip over your plate.
They don’t require too much exercise. They really like to play on their wheel and should not bathe frequently. Some hedgehogs require bathing if feces collect on their feet. But most hedgehogs lick themselves clean.
Tips for living with a hedgehog
The more you know about hedgehogs, the better you can understand them and be able to satisfy their needs, and the best way to do that is to observe them. So you can recognize their needs and their subtle ways of communication.
As we mentioned, hedgehogs are quite shy animals but once they become confident they usually interact without inconvenience. But for this you must be very gentle and patient.
You have to be willing to accept what your hedgehog has to offer you. It is very likely that sometimes he will not follow your orders but the affection he can share with you can make him charming.
Avoid that your hedgehog is the toy of other domestic animals that you may have at home, such as dogs or cats. Monitor how they interact and make sure your little one’s cage is always closed.
