1. **Cage Selection**: Choose a spacious cage that allows your hedgehog to move around comfortably. A minimum size of 2 feet by 4 feet is recommended. Make sure it has good ventilation but is also escape-proof.
2. **Bedding**: Use soft, absorbent bedding material such as aspen shavings, paper-based bedding, or fleece blankets. Avoid cedar and pine shavings as they can be harmful to hedgehogs. Change the bedding regularly to keep the environment clean and odor-free.
3. **Hiding Spots**: Hedgehogs love to hide, so include various hiding spots in their cage. You can use small boxes, tunnels, or commercially available hedgehog hides. This helps them feel secure and reduces stress.
4. **Temperature Control**: Hedgehogs thrive in temperatures between 72°F to 80°F (22°C to 27°C). Use a thermostat-controlled heat lamp or heating pad to maintain a cozy temperature, especially during colder months.
5. **Enrichment**: Provide toys and enrichment activities to keep your hedgehog entertained. Items like tunnels, climbing structures, and chew toys can help stimulate their natural behaviors.
6. **Food and Water**: Ensure that fresh water is available at all times, and provide a balanced diet consisting of high-quality hedgehog food, supplemented with insects and fruits. Keep their food and water bowls in a quiet, accessible area of the cage.
7. **Quiet Space**: Place the cage in a quiet area away from loud noises or disturbances. Hedgehogs are nocturnal and prefer a calm environment during the day when they are resting.
By following these tips, you can create a cozy and inviting home for your hedgehog that promotes their health and happiness!
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