1. **Maintain a Warm Temperature**: Hedgehogs thrive in temperatures between 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C). Use heat mats or ceramic heat emitters to ensure their habitat remains warm, especially during colder months.
2. **Provide Adequate Lighting**: Ensure they have a consistent light cycle with at least 12 hours of light each day. This helps mimic their natural environment and discourages hibernation.
3. **Avoid Seasonal Changes**: Keep their habitat away from drafts and avoid sudden temperature changes. If you’re using a room heater, make sure it doesn’t create hot or cold spots in their living area.
4. **Healthy Diet**: A well-balanced diet can help prevent hibernation. Ensure your hedgehog is eating high-quality hedgehog food, supplemented with insects and fruits. Weight gain before winter can also signal the need to hibernate, so monitor their diet closely.
5. **Regular Activity**: Encourage exercise by providing toys and tunnels in their enclosure. Regular activity can help keep their metabolism active and reduce the urge to hibernate.
6. **Veterinary Check-Up**: If your hedgehog shows signs of lethargy or weight loss, consult a veterinarian. They can rule out any underlying health issues that could be prompting the hibernation instinct.
By following these tips, you can help your hedgehog stay awake and active all year round, preventing them from entering hibernation.
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