1. **Housing**: Hedgehogs require a spacious and secure habitat. A large cage (at least 2 feet by 4 feet) with a solid bottom is ideal. Avoid wire-bottom cages as they can injure their feet. Line the bottom with bedding such as aspen shavings or paper-based bedding, and avoid cedar or pine shavings as they can be harmful.
2. **Temperature**: Hedgehogs are sensitive to temperature changes. Maintain a temperature between 72°F and 80°F (22°C to 27°C). Use a heat lamp or ceramic heat emitter if needed, but avoid direct heat sources that can burn them.
3. **Diet**: A balanced diet is crucial. Hedgehogs are insectivores, so their diet should consist mainly of high-quality hedgehog or cat food (preferably dry) that is high in protein and low in fat. Supplement their diet with insects like mealworms, crickets, and occasional fruits or vegetables in small amounts.
4. **Water**: Always provide fresh, clean water in a shallow dish. Ensure the dish is heavy enough to prevent tipping.
5. **Exercise**: Hedgehogs are nocturnal and need plenty of exercise. Provide a solid-bottom wheel (at least 12 inches in diameter) for them to run on, along with toys and tunnels to explore.
6. **Socialization**: Hedgehogs can be shy and may require gentle handling to become accustomed to human interaction. Start by letting them sniff your hand and gradually build trust.
7. **Health Checkups**: Regular veterinary checkups are essential. Look out for signs of illness, such as lethargy, changes in appetite, or unusual behaviors. Common health issues include obesity, dental problems, and skin conditions.
8. **Hygiene**: Keep their living area clean by spot-cleaning daily and doing a full clean weekly. This helps prevent odors and keeps your hedgehog healthy.
By following these tips, you can ensure a happy and healthy life for your hedgehog companion!
This answer doesn't make sense or isn't related to the question. Mark it as a probable hallucination of the AI model.