Get your questions answered.
Q) Do hedgehogs have flea's?
No. The only way a African pygmy hedgehog will get flea's is from catching them from another animal that has flea's. There is flea/mite treatment you can buy for hedgehogs. No African pygmy hedgehog is born with flea's unless mummy hog has caught flea's from somewhere.
Q) What age do hedgehogs live until?
Each hedgehog is different however in the UK the average life span seems to be 3-4 years. Some obviously live longer, others shorter.
Q) Can African pygmy hedgehogs live outside?
No. They MUST live indoors as they need regulated heat which they cant access outside. They are not like Wild hedgehogs.
Q) Are hedgehogs spiky to touch?
If the hedgehog is spiked up YES, if the hedgehog has its spikes flat then its likely you can get away with not being prickled. If you are very very worried about being spiked I would suggest a different form of pet.
Q) Do African pygmy hedgehogs hibernate?
They do but they shouldnt. Hibernation for African pygmy hedgehogs in most cases is fatal unless a human steps in and tries to bring the hedgehog out of hibernation (by keeping said hedgehog warm) this is why during the colder months or all year round your hedgehog should be kept warm.
Q) Can I keep African pygmy hedgehogs in pairs?
No. They are solitary creatures, males will fight which can lead to death and females are known to have fights too. Hedgehogs need space, so not only is it dangerous to keep them in pairs but you would need double the space per viv so 6ft instead of 3ft and two houses, two wheels and two sets of bowls/litter trays. Please keep your hedgehog solo.
Q) What's the point in the hedgehog registry?
The hedgehog registry is not about snobbery, its about being able to trace which hedgehogs are clear of genetic illnesses such as WHS, because of the registry someone in Devon will know Mr pricklepants by breeder FAR has produced a few hoglets with WHS because the breeder will be able to say so. Its also a great way of checking to make sure any hedgehogs you plan to breed are not related. Registering your hoglets is free. But this is upto the breeder if they wish to use the registry.