How to Care for an African Pygmy Hedgehog with Printable Care Sheet

A Snuggly Guide to Your Prickly Pal

So, you’re thinking about adopting an African pygmy hedgehog—or maybe you’ve already welcomed one into your home and are wondering, “Now what?”

First of all, congratulations! You’ve chosen a quirky, adorable, and surprisingly expressive little companion. But don’t let their tiny size and button noses fool you—hedgehogs are exotic pets with unique needs. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to keep your hedgie happy, healthy, and maybe even a little cuddly (on their terms, of course).

Origin Story

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of care, let’s get to know this spiky sweetheart. African pygmy hedgehogs are a hybrid species, bred from the white-bellied and Algerian hedgehogs. They’re small—usually around five to eight inches long—and live about three to six years, though some can live longer with excellent care. These hedgehogs are solitary, nocturnal, and curious by nature. While they’re not wild animals, they still retain many natural instincts, which means understanding their behavior is key to being a good hedgie parent.

Make Sure It’s Legal For You To Own A Hedgehog Before You Buy One

As of 2025, an African pygmy hedgehog is legal to own as a pet in most U.S. states. However, there are a few exceptions. Hedgehogs are currently illegal to own in:

• California
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Pennsylvania
• Washington, D.C.
• New York City (legal in the rest of New York State)

In some states, such as New Jersey and Wisconsin, you may need a special permit to keep a hedgehog. Even in states where they are legal, local municipalities may have their own restrictions, so it’s always a good idea to check with your city or county animal control office.

These laws are often based on concerns about invasive species, public health, or wildlife protection. Owning a hedgehog illegally can result in fines or confiscation of the animal, so it’s crucial to do your homework before bringing one home.

For the most up-to-date information, consult your state’s Department of Natural Resources or Fish and Wildlife agency—or check out this detailed state-by-state guide.

Home Life

Creating the right environment for your hedgehog is one of the most important parts of care. Think of their enclosure as a cozy studio apartment—it needs to be clean, safe, and full of enrichment. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least two feet by three feet of space, though more is always better. Many hedgehog owners opt for large plastic-bottom cages or modified storage bins with plenty of ventilation. Avoid cages with wire floors, as these can injure their tiny feet, and steer clear of glass tanks without airflow.

Temperature control is crucial. Hedgehogs are sensitive to cold and can attempt hibernation if the temperature drops too low, which is dangerous for them. Aim to keep their environment between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. A ceramic heat emitter with a thermostat is the safest way to maintain warmth—skip the heating pads and heat rocks, which can cause burns or uneven heating.

Inside the enclosure, your hedgehog will need soft, absorbent bedding. Paper-based bedding or fleece liners are popular choices. Do not use pine or cedar shavings, as they can be toxic. Every hedgehog also needs a hideout—a dark, enclosed space where they can sleep and feel secure. This could be a small igloo, a PVC pipe, or a cozy fleece pouch. Adding tunnels, dig boxes, and fleece strips can provide extra enrichment and help mimic their natural behaviors.

Dinner Time

Now, let’s talk food. Despite their bug-eyed snack goblin appearance, hedgehogs need a balanced, nutritious diet. Some hedgehog-specific or insectivore-specific foods are available. In addition to kibble, hedgehogs enjoy treats like mealworms, crickets, and waxworms (though these should be given sparingly due to their fat content). They will eat freeze-dried insects, but live mealworms are a great treat and include the added benefit of enrichment, which we’ll talk about more later. Small amounts of fruits like apples or berries and cooked vegetables like carrots or green beans can also be offered occasionally. Always avoid toxic foods like grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, chocolate, and anything dairy-based.

Fresh water should always be available, either in a shallow bowl or a water bottle. Some hedgehogs have a clear preference, so it’s worth offering both to see which they like best. Most prefer a hanging bottle like those used for hamsters and guinea pigs. Hedgehogs must have clean water at all times to prevent bacteria buildup.

Cleanliness Is Important

Hedgehogs are relatively tidy animals, but their enclosures can get messy quickly. Daily spot-cleaning is essential—remove any soiled bedding, uneaten food, and waste. Once a week, do a full clean of the enclosure, replacing all bedding and wiping down surfaces with a pet-safe cleaner. Food and water dishes should be washed regularly to prevent mold or bacteria.

Bathing your African pygmy hedgehog isn’t something you’ll need to do often, but it can be helpful if they get especially dirty or have dry skin. A warm water bath with a soft toothbrush can help clean their quills, and an oatmeal soak can soothe irritation. Always dry them thoroughly with a towel and keep them warm afterward—hedgehogs can chill easily, especially when wet.

Time For A Workout

Exercise and mental stimulation are vital for a hedgehog’s well-being. In the wild, they can travel several miles each night, so a large, solid-surface exercise wheel is a must. Never use wire or mesh wheels, which can cause serious injuries. Be prepared to clean the wheel frequently—hedgehogs have a habit of pooping while they run. It’s just part of the charm.

Beyond the wheel, your hedgehog will appreciate toys, tunnels, and opportunities to explore. Foraging puzzles, chew toys, and supervised floor time in a hedgie-safe area can help keep them engaged. Empty toilet paper rolls are a fun toy for hedgehogs. They will stick their head inside and move around the cage. (It makes for a cute photo op!) Toilet paper rolls will give your hedgie an endless supply of fun. Rotate toys regularly to keep things fresh and interesting.

Time To Bond

When it comes to bonding, patience is key. Hedgehogs aren’t naturally cuddly, but with time and gentle handling, many become quite affectionate. Start by letting your hedgehog get used to your scent—placing a worn T-shirt or fleece in their enclosure can help. Handle them daily, ideally in the evening when they’re naturally awake. Always scoop them up from underneath rather than grabbing from above, which can trigger a defensive response. If they ball up, click, or huff at you, don’t take it personally—give them time to feel safe.

It can be quite difficult to bond with adult hedgehogs that have never been handled much. They are defensive and will take a lot of time to warm up to you.

Each hedgehog has a unique personality. Some are adventurous explorers, while others are shy and prefer to stay bundled in a fleece pouch. You might even witness a strange behavior called “anointing,” where your hedgehog licks a new scent, foams at the mouth, and then smears the foam on their quills. It looks bizarre, but it’s totally normal and thought to be a way of camouflaging themselves with new smells.

Stay Healthy

Health care is another important aspect of hedgehog ownership. Because they’re considered exotic pets, it’s essential to find a veterinarian who has experience with hedgehogs. Regular checkups can help catch issues early. Common health concerns include obesity (often from too many treats and not enough exercise), mites (which cause itching and quill loss), dental problems, and a neurological condition called Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS), which is sadly untreatable. Keep an eye out for changes in behavior, appetite, or weight, and don’t hesitate to consult your vet if something seems off.

It’s also worth noting that hedgehogs are solitary animals. They don’t need—or want—cage mates, and housing them together can lead to stress or fighting. Breeding is not recommended unless you’re an experienced breeder with a plan for the offspring, as it requires specialized knowledge and resources. In some states, you can only own one hedgehog, rendering it impossible to breed them without a USDA license. Check your hedgehog breeder’s credentials before purchasing from them.

Traveling Hogs

If you plan to travel, you’ll need to make arrangements for your hedgehog. For short trips, a small carrier with fleece bedding and a hideout will keep them comfortable. Make sure they stay warm and aren’t exposed to drafts or direct sunlight. For longer absences, find a pet sitter familiar with hedgehog care or consider boarding them with an exotic vet.

Drop Some Knowledge On Your Friends

And finally, a few fun facts to impress your friends: African pygmy hedgehogs have between 5,000 and 7,000 quills. They can run up to six miles a night on their wheel. Their eyesight is poor, but their sense of smell is excellent. And yes, that weird foaming behavior? Totally normal.

What Do You Think?

Is a hedgehog the right pet for you? If you’re looking for a low-allergen companion with a big personality packed into a tiny, spiky body, and you’re willing to put in the time to understand their unique needs, the answer might be yes. They’re not for everyone—they’re nocturnal, solitary, and require specialized care—but for the right person, they’re endlessly rewarding.

So grab a fleece pouch, cue up your favorite podcast, and settle in for some quality bonding time with your hedgie. Just don’t expect them to be impressed—they’re far too dignified for that.

Download a printable care sheet here for a hedgehog to use as a quick reference.