Exploring Hedgehogs: A Unique Group of Mammal Pets.

In the rich and colorful world of mammalian pets, hedgehogs are gradually coming into people's view with their unique charm and becoming a niche choice favored by more and more pet lovers. They may seem inconspicuous, but they possess numerous interesting characteristics. Let's delve deeper into this special pet group together.

I. Biological Characteristics of Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs belong to the family Erinaceidae in the order Erinaceomorpha and are small mammals. They are small in size. The body length of adult hedgehogs is usually around 15 - 25 centimeters, and their weight varies from 300 to 1000 grams depending on different breeds. The most distinctive appearance feature of hedgehogs is that their bodies are covered with sharp spines, which are actually special structures formed by the keratinization of hair. When encountering danger, hedgehogs will quickly curl their bodies into a ball, with the spines pointing outward, just like a natural "spiny ball", to defend against external enemies. This is an excellent defense mechanism developed by them during the long evolutionary process. The heads of hedgehogs are small, while their eyes and ears are relatively large, providing them with good perception abilities when they are active at night. They have pointed mouths, which are suitable for preying on various small insects, worms, as well as the fruits and roots of some plants. Their diet is rather omnivorous. Their limbs are short but powerful, enabling them to support their bodies to run quickly and dig holes in order to find food and habitats.

The heads of hedgehogs are relatively small, but their eyes and ears are well-developed, which provides them with excellent visual and auditory perception abilities for their nocturnal activities and helps them adapt to their nocturnal living habits. They have pointed mouths, and this structure facilitates them to prey on various small prey, such as insects, worms and so on. Meanwhile, they will also eat the fruits and roots of some plants, so their diet is rather omnivorous.

In terms of body structure, hedgehogs have short but powerful limbs, which enable them to run quickly on the ground, move around nimbly and possess the ability to dig holes. Whether it's looking for food or seeking a safe habitat, they can achieve these relying on their own strength. Additionally, hedgehogs have diverse fur colors. Commonly seen ones include brown, gray, white and so on. Hedgehogs in different regions and of different breeds have their own characteristics in terms of fur color and markings, adding a unique touch of color to nature.

II. Common Pet Hedgehog Breeds

（I）. African pygmy hedgehog

This is currently the most common hedgehog breed in the pet market. It is native to Africa. Compared with other wild hedgehogs, it is relatively smaller in size and has a rather gentle temperament. After being artificially bred for many generations, it has adapted to the living environment with humans. Their spines are short and dense, and their fur colors are rich and diverse. There are albino varieties that present a snow-white appearance, paired with pink noses and ears, which are really adorable. There is also the standard salt-and-pepper color, with gray and white alternating, just like the frost patterns in winter. African pygmy hedgehogs usually have a relatively high level of activity. At night, they will explore and play around in the breeding box. When interacting with their owners, they also show great curiosity and will sniff new things with their little noses.

Appearance characteristics

Size: They are plump and short. Their body length ranges from 15.5 centimeters to 23 centimeters, and their weight varies from 311 grams to 566 grams.

Fur color: They have a diverse range of colors, including white, tawny, snowflake, brownish-white, platinum, black, chocolate, apricot and champagne, etc. The area from the face to the abdomen is white.

Spines: Their backs are covered with hard spines, which are formed by the keratinization of hair. When facing enemies, they can curl up into a ball to protect themselves.

Living Habits

Character: They are gentle and friendly, but very timid and easily frightened. They are somewhat solitary in nature.

Activity Pattern: They are nocturnal animals, preferring quietness to noise and darkness to light. They sleep for more than 10 hours a day and usually go out to look for food and engage in activities in the early morning and at dusk.

Diet: They are omnivorous animals. In the wild, they mainly prey on various invertebrates and small vertebrates, as well as plant materials such as grass roots, fruits and melons for a living. When raised at home, owners can prepare their own feed by mixing meat, grains and by-products, green vegetables, etc. in proportion.

Environmental Adaptation: Since they cannot stably regulate their body temperature, they have the phenomenon of hibernation. However, African pygmy hedgehogs live in hot Africa and seldom hibernate. When it's very hot in summer, they will enter aestivation.

Reproduction and Breeding

Breeding Period: The breeding period is from June to August every year. They give birth to 1 to 2 litters annually. The gestation period lasts for 35 to 37 days, and each litter has 3 to 7 offspring.

Characteristics of the Cubs: Newborn cubs are pink all over, with white and soft spines. Their eyes are tightly closed, and they weigh about 13 to 15 grams.

Feeding Instructions

Feeding Environment: The feeding temperature should be maintained at 20 - 27 degrees Celsius, and the humidity should be controlled below 40%.

Cages for raising birds or cats can be used, or wooden boxes and cardboard boxes can be utilized. Line the bottom with hay, pine leaves, straw, or pine wood shavings about 5 centimeters thick.

Common Diseases

The common diseases of hedgehogs mainly include gastroenteritis, dermatophytosis, parasites, etc.

II. Four-toed Hedgehog

It is mainly distributed in the central and eastern regions of Africa and gets its name because it has four toes on each foot. Compared with the African pygmy hedgehog, the four-toed hedgehog is slightly larger in size and its spines are longer and thinner. Their fur colors are mainly brown and black, with irregular white markings, giving them a wild beauty. Four-toed hedgehogs are relatively independent in personality, but with patient domestication, they can also build an intimate relationship with their owners. They are good at climbing and digging in the wild, so when raising them, it is necessary to provide a certain three-dimensional space to meet the needs of their nature.

III. The Feeding Environment of Hedgehogs

I. Selection of the Breeding Box

It is crucial to create a comfortable "home" for hedgehogs. The size of the breeding box should be determined according to the body size and activity level of the hedgehogs. Generally, it is recommended to use a box with a length of at least 40 centimeters, a width of 30 centimeters and a height of more than 30 centimeters. As the hedgehogs grow up, it may be necessary to upgrade the size of the breeding box if needed. In terms of materials, plastic or glass breeding boxes are quite common. Plastic boxes are lightweight and have good heat preservation properties, while glass boxes are convenient for observing the living conditions of hedgehogs. However, it is necessary to take good ventilation measures, such as punching holes in the box walls or installing small ventilation fans to ensure air circulation and prevent the growth of bacteria in a stuffy and humid environment, which would endanger the health of hedgehogs.

II. Use of Bedding Materials

Appropriate bedding materials can make hedgehogs live more comfortably. Common bedding materials include wood shavings, wood pellets, and paper wool. Wood shavings and wood pellets have good moisture absorption properties and can absorb the urine of hedgehogs to keep the breeding environment dry. However, it is necessary to choose products that are unscented and not chemically treated to avoid respiratory allergies in hedgehogs. Paper wool is softer and less irritating to the skin of hedgehogs. Moreover, brightly colored paper wool can also play a certain decorative role, adding a warm atmosphere to the breeding box. In cold seasons, thick layers of paper wool can also have a warming effect, allowing hedgehogs to curl up comfortably inside.

III. Temperature and Humidity Control

Hedgehogs are animals that are relatively sensitive to temperature. The suitable temperature range is between 22 °C and 27 °C. If the temperature is too low, hedgehogs may enter a hibernation state, which will affect their normal physiological functions and even endanger their lives. If the temperature is too high, hedgehogs are prone to heatstroke and dehydration. Therefore, in winter, it is necessary to use heating pads or ceramic lamps to heat the breeding box, while in summer, it is important to dissipate heat. The breeding box can be placed in a cool and ventilated place and equipped with small fans. It is advisable to keep the humidity between 40% and 60%. An overly dry environment will cause the skin of hedgehogs to crack. The humidity can be adjusted by placing water basins or using humidifiers. However, it is necessary to avoid direct contact between water and hedgehogs to prevent them from catching a cold.

IV. Dietary Habits of Hedgehogs

I. Choice of Staple Food

High-quality cat food or food specially formulated for hedgehogs forms the basis of a hedgehog's diet. These foods are rich in nutrients such as protein, fat, vitamins and minerals, which can meet the energy requirements for the hedgehog's daily growth and activities. When choosing food, pay attention to the ingredient list and try to select products with a high meat content and few additives. Meanwhile, hedgehogs also need to supplement a certain amount of insect protein, such as mealworms and superworms. They can be fed 2 - 3 times a week to provide the necessary animal protein for hedgehogs, promoting muscle development and maintaining body functions. However, it should be noted that the amount should be appropriate. Overfeeding insects can easily lead to obesity and indigestion in hedgehogs.

II. Matching of Supplementary Food

In addition to staple food and insects, hedgehogs can also eat some fresh vegetables and fruits as supplementary food. For example, carrots, pumpkins, apples, etc. Vegetables and fruits are rich in nutrients such as dietary fiber and vitamin C, which are helpful for hedgehogs' digestion and enhancing their immunity. However, it is necessary to cut the food into small pieces for the convenience of hedgehogs to eat, and do not overfeed them. Because hedgehogs' intestines and stomachs have relatively weak digestive abilities for plant-based foods, excessive consumption may cause diarrhea. In addition, clean drinking water should be supplied at all times. A small pet water dispenser can be used to ensure that hedgehogs can drink fresh and clean water whenever they want.

Supplementary Food Matching for Hedgehogs: Fruit and Vegetable Hamster Food, There Are Tricks to Eating It in Small Quantities

During the process of raising hedgehogs, the matching of supplementary food is quite a knowledge. And fruit and vegetable hamster food often makes pet owners both love it and feel about it. Can it be fed to hedgehogs? And how should it be fed?

Hedgehogs are omnivorous animals and naturally have the habit of consuming plant-based foods. Fruit and vegetable hamster food is rich in various dried fruits and vegetables, grains and other ingredients. It seemingly can provide hedgehogs with rich nutrition. Feeding it occasionally in small quantities can indeed allow hedgehogs to change their taste and obtain some additional vitamins and dietary fiber. For example, the dried apples in hamster food can give hedgehogs a certain amount of vitamin C, helping to improve their immunity; grain components such as pumpkin seeds can also supplement some energy.

However, it must be remembered that it can only be given in small amounts. Hedgehogs' nutritional needs are completely different from those of hamsters. Hamster food cannot fully meet the growth needs of hedgehogs. If hedgehogs rely on fruit and vegetable hamster food for a long time, they may face nutritional deficiencies. Their high demand for protein, especially animal protein, is insufficient in hamster food, which will lead to slow development and muscle weakness in hedgehogs.

So, how can it be fed safely in small quantities? First of all, the number of feedings per week should not exceed 2 times, and the amount each time should be controlled to a small pinch, about 5 - 10 pieces or so. Secondly, observe the hedgehogs' reactions after eating. If there are symptoms of digestive discomfort such as diarrhea and vomiting, stop feeding immediately and adjust the diet structure. Moreover, try to crush the food when feeding it to make it easier for hedgehogs to swallow and avoid the risk of choking.

In conclusion, fruit and vegetable hamster food can be used as a "little adjustment" in the diet of hedgehogs, but it must never overshadow the main food. Pet owners need to carefully match staple foods, insect proteins, fresh fruits and vegetables and other foods on the basis of understanding the nutritional needs of hedgehogs, so that hedgehogs can eat healthily and happily and accompany us through the warm pet-raising time full of vitality.

Hedgehogs can eat a small amount of timothy hay biscuits. The main ingredient of timothy hay biscuits is timothy hay.

Supplementing dietary fiber: The dietary fiber in timothy hay biscuits can promote the intestinal peristalsis of hedgehogs, help with digestion and prevent digestive problems such as constipation.

Grinding teeth and maintaining dental health: When hedgehogs chew on timothy hay biscuits, it can play a role in grinding their teeth, preventing their teeth from growing too long and being beneficial to oral health. However, timothy hay biscuits cannot be used as the main food for hedgehogs. Eating a large amount of them may lead to the following problems:

Nutritional imbalance: Hedgehogs are omnivorous animals and need to consume a variety of foods including insects, meat, fruits and vegetables to meet their nutritional requirements. The nutritional components of timothy hay biscuits are relatively single, mainly dietary fiber and so on, and they cannot provide all the nutrients that hedgehogs need, such as high-quality animal protein. If hedgehogs eat a large amount of them, it will lead to nutritional imbalance.

Digestive burden: Although hedgehogs can digest a certain amount of grass, if they eat too many timothy hay biscuits, it may bring a relatively large burden to the digestive system and cause problems such as indigestion and diarrhea.

V. Daily Care for Hedgehogs

I. Cleaning of Spines

Although hedgehogs' spines can clean themselves to some extent, they occasionally need the assistance of their owners. As hedgehogs move around, their spines may get dirty with food residues, feces or dust. If not cleaned for a long time, bacteria will breed and affect the health of hedgehogs. You can use a soft wet cloth or pet-specific wet wipes to gently wipe the spines of hedgehogs, wiping from the head to the tail along the direction of the spines. The movements should be gentle to avoid hurting the hedgehogs. During the wiping process, if you encounter stubborn stains, don't pull them forcibly. You can dip more warm water to slowly soften them before removing them.

II. Nail Trimming

The nails of hedgehogs will keep growing. If they are too long, they will not only easily scratch their owners but also may get caught in bedding materials or climbing objects during the hedgehogs' daily activities, causing injuries. To trim the nails, you need to use special pet nail clippers and do it in a brightly lit place so that you can clearly see the blood vessels. Generally, it is necessary to trim the nails once every 2 - 3 weeks. When trimming, just cut off the transparent part at the tip of the nails. Never cut into the blood vessels. Once bleeding occurs, immediately disinfect with iodine tincture and press to stop the bleeding. If the bleeding doesn't stop, seek medical treatment in time.

III. Bathing Care

Hedgehogs don't need to be bathed frequently. Usually, it's enough to bathe them 1 - 2 times a month. When bathing, use warm water with the water temperature controlled between 35 °C and 40 °C. You can use pet-specific bath lotion to gently rub the hedgehogs' bodies, avoiding sensitive parts such as the eyes, mouth and ears. After bathing, quickly dry them with a soft towel or use a low-temperature hair dryer to blow them dry. Pay attention to keeping a certain distance between the hair dryer and the hedgehogs to prevent scalding. After bathing, the hedgehogs should be put back into the warm and dry breeding box in time to avoid catching a cold.

VI. Social Interaction and Training of Hedgehogs

I. Interaction with Owners

Although hedgehogs are not as enthusiastic and outgoing as cats and dogs, after spending some time together, they can establish a unique emotional bond with their owners. After the hedgehog gets familiar with the owner's scent, it can be taken out of the breeding box every night and placed on the hand or a soft mat to let it explore freely. At the same time, communicate with it in a gentle voice and feed it some small snacks, such as dried insects and small pieces of fruit, gradually cultivating its trust in the owner. As the interaction increases, the hedgehog will take the initiative to approach the owner and even curl up and sleep in the owner's palm, showing its affectionate side.

II. Simple Training

Hedgehogs can also undergo some simple training, such as fixed-point defecation. Fix a corner in the breeding box to place a toilet and line the toilet with highly absorbent bedding materials, such as cat litter. When it is found that the hedgehog shows signs of defecation, promptly carry it to the toilet position. After repeating this many times, the hedgehog can gradually develop the habit of fixed-point defecation. In addition, through the clicker training method, combined with snack rewards, hedgehogs can also be trained to perform some simple actions upon hearing commands. For example, when hearing the command "come here", it will approach the owner. This can not only enhance the interaction with the hedgehog but also exercise its intelligence.

VII. Precautions for Hedgehog Raising

I. Health Check

It is an essential step to take hedgehogs to the pet hospital for regular health checks at least once every six months. Veterinarians can check the hedgehogs' weight, the condition of their spines, their mouths, eyes and other parts in time to detect potential health problems, such as skin diseases, parasite infections, dental diseases and so on. Meanwhile, in daily breeding, it is also necessary to pay attention to the behavioral changes of hedgehogs. If any abnormal situations are found, such as loss of appetite, listlessness, dull spines or frequent scratching of the body, it is necessary to seek medical treatment immediately to ensure that the hedgehogs receive timely treatment.

II. Avoiding Stress

Hedgehogs are timid by nature and are easily stressed by external stimuli. During the breeding process, try to keep the breeding environment quiet and stable, and avoid frequently changing the position of the breeding box, sudden loud noises or strong light irradiation. Newly arrived hedgehogs need some time to adapt to the new environment. During this period, do not force interaction with them. You can place them in a quiet corner, provide sufficient food, water and hiding places, and let them explore and get familiar with the environment on their own. After they adapt, gradually increase the frequency of interaction.

III. Legal Raising

The laws and regulations regarding keeping hedgehogs as pets vary from region to region. Before deciding to raise hedgehogs, it is necessary to understand the relevant local regulations to ensure that your breeding behavior is legal and compliant. Some wild hedgehog species are national protected animals, and it is illegal to capture or raise them privately. For breeds that have been artificially bred for many generations, such as African pygmy hedgehogs, they are allowed to be legally raised in most regions, but it is still necessary to go through necessary procedures, such as pet registration, and abide by local animal management regulations to be a responsible pet owner.

As a unique member of the mammalian pet group, although the process of raising hedgehogs requires a certain amount of effort and care, the companionship and fun they bring are also unique. By understanding their biological characteristics, breeding requirements and other aspects of knowledge, we can create a warm and comfortable living environment for these little guys, allowing them to grow up healthily under the care of humans and share the wonderful moments of life with us. When the small figures with sharp spines yet extremely cute shuttle in the breeding box at night or fall asleep peacefully in the owner's palm, I believe every hedgehog owner will deeply feel the preciousness of this special bond.

In the future, as people's attention to niche pets continues to increase, it is hoped that the knowledge related to hedgehog breeding can be more widely popularized, so that more people can know, love and correctly raise these charming little hedgehogs, adding a different touch to the pet world. Whether it is scientific research exploring their unique physiological functions or folk sharing of breeding experiences, it will promote the prosperous development of hedgehog pet culture and make hedgehogs shine more brightly in human life.