1. **Proper Housing**: A spacious cage is essential for your hedgehog's well-being. A minimum of 2 square feet of floor space is recommended, but larger is better. Ensure the cage has good ventilation and is escape-proof. A solid bottom is preferable to wire to prevent injuries.
2. **Bedding**: Use safe and absorbent bedding like aspen shavings, paper-based bedding, or fleece liners. Avoid cedar or pine shavings, as they can be harmful to hedgehogs.
3. **Diet**: Hedgehogs are insectivores and require a balanced diet. High-quality hedgehog food or cat food (high in protein and low in fat) should be the mainstay, supplemented with insects like mealworms, crickets, and occasional fruits and vegetables like cooked sweet potatoes or peas.
4. **Temperature Control**: Hedgehogs thrive in a warm environment, ideally between 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C). Use a heat lamp or a ceramic heat emitter to maintain an appropriate temperature, especially during colder months.
5. **Exercise**: Provide a wheel for exercise, as hedgehogs are naturally active and need to run. A solid-surface wheel is best to prevent injuries. Additionally, allow supervised time outside the cage in a safe, hedgehog-proof area.
6. **Social Interaction**: While hedgehogs are solitary animals, they do enjoy gentle interaction with their owners. Spend time handling and playing with your hedgehog to help them become socialized and comfortable with you.
7. **Regular Health Checks**: Monitor your hedgehog for any signs of illness, such as changes in appetite, weight, or behavior. Regular vet check-ups are also important to keep your pet healthy.
By focusing on these key areas, you can help ensure your hedgehog leads a fulfilling and happy life!
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