What should I include in a hedgehog's cage?

Essential Items for a Hedgehog's Cage

Creating a comfortable and stimulating environment for your hedgehog is crucial for their well-being. Here are some essential items to include in their cage:

1. **Bedding**: Use soft, absorbent bedding such as aspen shavings, paper-based bedding, or fleece liners. Avoid cedar or pine shavings as they can be harmful to hedgehogs.

2. **Hiding Spots**: Hedgehogs are naturally shy creatures, so provide them with hiding spots. You can use igloo-style houses, cardboard boxes, or tunnels where they can retreat and feel safe.

3. **Food and Water Dishes**: Use shallow, heavy dishes for food and water to prevent tipping. Ensure fresh water is available at all times and feed a high-quality hedgehog food or a mix of cat food and insects.

4. **Exercise Wheel**: An exercise wheel is essential for keeping your hedgehog active. Choose a solid-surface wheel that is appropriately sized (around 12 inches in diameter) to prevent injury.

5. **Toys**: Provide toys that encourage exploration and play, such as balls, tunnels, and climbing structures. Make sure they are safe and free of small parts that could be swallowed.

6. **Temperature Control**: Hedgehogs thrive in a warm environment (around 75-80°F). Consider using a heat lamp or a heating pad (under the cage) to maintain a comfortable temperature.

7. **Litter Box**: If you want to encourage litter training, include a small litter box filled with safe, absorbent litter. Place it in a corner where your hedgehog tends to go.

By including these items in your hedgehog's cage, you can create a safe and enriching environment that promotes their physical and mental health!

This answer doesn't make sense or isn't related to the question. Mark it as a probable hallucination of the AI model.

Topics covered in this question:

Hedgehog Care Pet Hedgehogs Cage Setup