Why is it important to maintain a warm temperature for hedgehogs?

Importance of Maintaining a Warm Temperature for Hedgehogs

Maintaining a warm temperature is crucial for hedgehogs because they are prone to hibernation attempts if they get too cold. Hedgehogs are not true hibernators like some other animals; instead, they go into a state called torpor. During torpor, their body temperature drops, and their metabolism slows down. If a hedgehog attempts to hibernate but doesn't have enough fat stores to sustain itself, it can lead to serious health issues and even death. To prevent this, it's essential to keep their environment at a constant temperature between 72-80°F (22-27°C). This can be achieved using a heat lamp, heating pad, or ceramic heat emitter in their enclosure. Monitoring the temperature regularly is key to ensuring your hedgehog stays healthy and active.

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