Pygmy hippos often hang out in mud wallows to give their skin extra protection and to cool off during the heat of the day. Even in the humid rain forest, the pygmy hippo's thin top layer of skin easily can dry out. A reddish fluid that acts like sweat oozes out of its pores, also keeping the skin hydrated and protected from sunburn.

The pygmy hippo is a herbivore, and ours receives twigs, branches, leaves, and fresh, seasonal fruits. In summer, fruit-flavored ice blocks are provided as enrichment.