1. **Habitat**: Provide a spacious and secure enclosure. A minimum of 2 square feet is recommended for a single hedgehog, but larger is always better. Use bedding materials like paper-based substrates or aspen shavings, avoiding cedar or pine shavings as they can be harmful.
2. **Temperature**: Hedgehogs thrive in temperatures between 72°F to 80°F (22°C to 27°C). Use a heat lamp or a heating pad to maintain warmth, especially in colder months. Avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes.
3. **Diet**: A balanced diet is crucial. Offer high-quality hedgehog food or cat food with a high protein content. Supplement with insects like mealworms or crickets and occasional fruits or vegetables in moderation.
4. **Social Interaction**: Hedgehogs are solitary creatures but do enjoy interaction. Spend time handling your hedgehog gently to build trust. They may initially curl up into a ball, but with patience, they will become more comfortable.
5. **Enrichment**: Provide toys and activities to keep your hedgehog stimulated. Tunnel systems, exercise wheels (with solid surfaces), and hiding spots can encourage natural behaviors.
6. **Regular Health Checks**: Keep an eye on your hedgehog's health by looking for signs of illness, such as lethargy, changes in appetite, or unusual behaviors. Regular vet check-ups are recommended to ensure they are healthy.
By focusing on these aspects, you can create a comfortable and enriching environment for your hedgehog, promoting their overall well-being and happiness.
This answer doesn't make sense or isn't related to the question. Mark it as a probable hallucination of the AI model.