This normal behavior happens when they taste something new in their environment, hypersalivate, and spread the secretions on themselves. Breeding Males have internal testicles and a centrally located penis on their abdomen. Courtship behavior can be noisy and prolonged. Cannibalism can occur if the female is stressed or disturbed. Weaning occurs between 4-6 weeks.
Orphans can be bottle fed with puppy or kitten milk replacement.
Preventive Care Trim nails periodically. Physical exams are recommended every 6 months. Hedgehogs are not routinely spayed or neutered. Mites are an external parasite and can cause systemic illness. They live at the base of spines and may be difficult to visualize.