7 Step for caring baby african pygmy hedgehogs

Hedgehogs or African Pygmy Hedgehogs are small animals originating from Africa, famous as exotic pets. They belong to the Erinaceidae family and have bodies covered in short, non-poisonous spines. Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals, meaning they are more active at night.

Characteristics of Hedgehogs:

- Size: Hedgehogs are usually between 15 and 20 cm in size and weigh 250 to 600 grams.

- Spines: The spines on the body of hedgehogs are their main defense tool. When they feel threatened, they will roll their bodies into a ball so that only the spines are visible.

- Color: Hedgehogs come in a variety of colors, including brown, gray, white, and albino.

- Social Life: They tend to be solitary and prefer to live alone rather than in groups.

Caring for a baby hedgehog requires more detailed attention because they are still in a critical stage of development. Here is a more detailed guide to caring for a baby hedgehog:

7 Step for caring baby hedgehogs

1. Cage Temperature and Environment

- Cage Temperature

Baby hedgehogs need a constant, warm temperature, which is between 24-27°C. Temperatures that are too low can cause the hedgehog to go into involuntary hibernation, which can be fatal because their body systems are not ready for hibernation.

- Heating Device

Use a heat lamp with the appropriate wattage or a heating pad placed under part of the cage. Make sure there is an area in the cage that is not exposed to direct heat, so that the hedgehog can choose a comfortable temperature.

- Safe Cage

Use a cage that has good ventilation but is still warm. A plastic cage with a net roof or an aquarium with sufficient ventilation can be an option. Also make sure the cage does not have gaps where the baby hedgehog can escape or get trapped. 

2. Cage Lining

- Type of Lining

Use soft bedding such as fleece or safe wood shavings, such as aspen. Avoid cedar or pine shavings, as their aromatic oils can cause respiratory problems and skin irritation.

- Cleanliness

Change the bedding every 1-2 days to maintain cleanliness. Baby hedgehogs urinate and defecate frequently, so a clean cage is essential to prevent infection.

3. Feeding

- Milk for Baby Hedgehogs

Very young baby hedgehogs need milk from their mother. If they are separated from their mother, you can give them kitten milk replacer (KMR) as a substitute. Cow's milk is not recommended as it can cause diarrhea in baby hedgehogs.

- How ​​to Give

Use a dropper or small bottle with a special baby nipple to give milk. Give small amounts but often, according to the baby hedgehog's ability to digest. Milk should be warm, around body temperature (37-38°C).

- Frequency

Give milk every 2-3 hours, even at night, especially if the baby hedgehog is still very small (newborn to 2 weeks old).

4. Ensuring Health

- Weight Monitoring

Weigh the baby hedgehog every day with an accurate digital scale. Their weight should increase every day, even if only a little. Weight loss can be a sign of a health problem.

- Health Signs

Pay attention to the activity of the baby hedgehog. Healthy babies will usually be active and responsive, although they often sleep. If they are weak, inactive, or do not want to eat, consult a veterinarian immediately.

- Dehydration

Check for signs of dehydration by pinching the skin on the back. If the skin does not immediately return to its original position, the baby hedgehog may be dehydrated and needs additional fluids.

5. Socialization and Interaction

- Getting Used to Your Presence

Handle the baby hedgehog gently every day to get them used to your smell and voice. Use a soft cloth to protect your hands from their spines, which may still be sharp.

- Interaction Time

Interact at a quiet time, avoiding loud noises that can stress the baby hedgehog. A good time to interact is after they have eaten, when they are calmer.

6. Special Care

- Stimulation to Go to the Toilet

Very young hedgehogs may need help going to the toilet. Use a warm, damp cotton ball or cloth to gently wipe their genitals and anus after eating. This will stimulate them to urinate or defecate.

- Checking for Parasites

Baby hedgehogs can be susceptible to parasites such as mites. Check their skin regularly, especially under their spines and on their bellies. If there are signs of redness or excessive dryness, consult your vet immediately.

7. Consult a Veterinarian

- Routine Checkups

Take your baby hedgehog to a veterinarian who is experienced in handling exotic animals for routine health checkups. Your vet can provide specific advice on proper care and diet.

- Vaccinations and Protection

Talk to your vet about any vaccinations or treatments to protect against parasites.

Caring for a baby hedgehog does require a lot of dedication and attention, but with proper care, they can grow into healthy, active hedgehogs.

LIFE CYCLE OF PYGMY HEDGEHOGS

Baby hedgehogs have a life cycle, especially when they are still babies, they are very susceptible to disease and also death. Some baby hedgehogs can die in the first week of their birth due to various reasons. Here we summarize the growth cycle of baby hedgehogs:

1. Birth Stage

Baby hedgehogs are born after their mother's pregnancy period which lasts around 35-42 days. At birth, they are very vulnerable because:

- Size and Appearance

Baby hedgehogs are usually very small, around 1.5 to 3 cm long and weigh only around 10-15 grams.

- Spines

Although they are famous for their spines, baby hedgehogs are born with spines that are still soft and not too prominent. These spines begin to harden within a few hours of birth.

2. The First Weeks of Life

The first weeks are the most critical period for baby hedgehogs. During this period, they are very dependent on their mothers for warmth, protection, and nutrition.

- Cage Conditions

Make sure the cage temperature is between 24-27°C. Baby hedgehogs cannot regulate their own body temperature, so an environment that is too cold or too hot can have a negative impact on their health.

- Nutrition

Baby hedgehogs nurse from their mother for the first 4-6 weeks. Their mother's milk contains all the nutrients needed for optimal growth. If there are problems with breastfeeding, for example due to the death of the mother, you will need to provide a special kitten formula as a substitute.

3. Growth and Development

Over time, baby hedgehogs experience rapid development:

- Eyes and Ears

Baby hedgehogs' eyes and ears open at around 2 weeks of age. At this time, they become more aware of their surroundings and start interacting more actively.

- Spines

Their spines will continue to develop and harden, becoming more prominent and serving as their main defense tool.

- Activity

At 3 to 4 weeks of age, baby hedgehogs will begin to explore around the cage and show an interest in solid food. Soft foods, such as pureed chicken or turkey, can be introduced at this age.

4. Weaning and Separation

At 6-8 weeks of age, baby hedgehogs are ready to be weaned and separated from their mother:

- Weaning

Gradually introduce solid foods, and reduce the frequency of feedings until they stop altogether.

- Separation

By 8 weeks of age, baby hedgehogs should be fully weaned and can be separated from their mother. At this point, they are ready to start living on their own or be introduced to new owners.

5. Challenges and Special Precautions

Caring for baby hedgehogs is not without its challenges. Some special precautions to take include:

- Dehydration

Baby hedgehogs are very susceptible to dehydration, especially if they are not getting enough milk. Signs of dehydration include skin that is slow to spring back after being pinched and very hard droppings.

- Stress 

Reducing distractions around the cage is important, especially in the first few weeks. Stress in the mother can cause her to reject her pups or even harm them.

- Health Check

Regularly check the weight and growth of the baby hedgehogs to make sure they are growing well. Consult a veterinarian if there are any worrying signs.

This article was created so that the maintenance of baby pygmy hedgehogs can be maintained and not die in vain. If you are interested in caring for pygmy hedgehogs, you should read this article and share with your friends.