African pygmy hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris) have become popular exotic pets, raising welfare concerns about their complex needs in captive environments. Wild hedgehogs are highly active nocturnal animals travelling 1-3 km nightly and engaging in extensive foraging behaviour. Captive hedgehogs in small enclosures develop obesity, dental disease, and Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (a progressive neurological degenerative disease). Welfare requirements include minimum 2m² floor space with wheel exercise (solid surface, minimum 28cm diameter for adult), hide boxes, foraging enrichment, and nocturnal activity accommodation. Temperature management is critical: African pygmy hedgehogs are non-hibernating tropical species, and temperatures below 18°C trigger torpor which is dangerous rather than natural for this species. Diet requires insect protein supplementation beyond commercial hedgehog or cat food. Veterinary care for hedgehogs requires exotic animal practitioners; many common practitioners lack species-specific expertise. Several European countries restrict or prohibit hedgehog keeping due to welfare concerns.