The Must Have Pet - Pygmy Hedgehogs

Branded as a must have pet in 2009, Pygmy Hedgehogs proved to everyone that there is more to it than the way it looks.

Pygmy Hedgehogs were bred in captivity about ten years ago. This domesticated hedgehog is a hybrid of two classes of hedgehogs, the White bellied or four-toed hedgehog and the Algerian Hedgehog. They are smaller in size than the European Hedgehog, and weighs between twelve to eighteen ounces. They can live up to six years at most, and needs about twelve hours of daylight.

Compared to a wild hedgehog, Pygmy Hedgehogs does not need to hibernate, but take note that they still need to be kept warm. They can eat cat food, but they are generally carnivores. They are also fond of insects, fruits and vegetables. However, it must be noted that they are lactose intolerant, so they must not be fed with dairy products.

Pygmy Hedgehogs loves to play in the evening, and sleeps during the day. They can run on the wheel for hours, and can happily entertain themselves with cat toys.

However, due to their genetically modified state, like other miniature animals, they are prone to diseases. Sadly, Pygmy Hedgehogs are prone to getting cancer, so always check them for lumps and make sure there's no blood in their litter.

Just like human beings, as the animals attempt to adapt to the well advancing world, more and more diseases gets discovered. Therefore, as a pet owner, make sure to handle them with care and shower them with affection, in order to avoid any sad demise in the near future.

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