Are you a pet hedgehog owner, or thinking of getting one? If so, an important aspect to consider when caring for your little friend is temperature – because although they may be small and cuddly, these spiky mammals need access to specific temperatures to stay healthy.
With this in mind, today we’ll explore the optimal temperature range that is suitable for your beloved hedgehog – from the space it lives in and how you regulate it to general considerations about why some temperatures are better than others!
What is the best temperature for a hedgehog?
For hedgehogs, the ideal temperature is a range between 73 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything below this will slow down their metabolism and make them sluggish, while anything above it can cause heatstroke. To keep your little companion happy and healthy, they need a warm but not too hot environment.
One great way to do this is to purchase an appropriately-sized heating pad specifically meant for hedgehogs to keep inside of their enclosure– just be sure to check the temperature constantly so it doesn’t get too hot. With proper temperature control, your pet hedgehog will have plenty of energy and live a long, happy life!
What temperature should a hedgehog be in Celsius?
Keeping a hedgehog as a pet can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to make sure you provide the ideal environment for your spiky little friend. Keeping the temperature inside their habitat between 23-29 degrees Celsius is advisable for optimal health and happiness. Below this range, your buddy might become more sluggish due to being colder than they should be.
If the temperature rises above 29 degrees up to about 32 degrees Celsius, then you need to introduce extra ventilation – like an open window or fan – otherwise, heatstroke can become an issue. It’s also worth noting that hedgehogs don’t do well with extremely high levels of humidity so it’s best to avoid excessive moisture at all costs. Making sure your hedgehog has the perfect environment will keep them safe, healthy, and happy!
What temperature and humidity do hedgehogs need?
Hedgehogs are pretty versatile when it comes to temperature, but they prefer temperatures ranging from 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They generally thrive in environments around 70-75 degrees, with warmer or cooler temperatures being perfect for short periods. In terms of humidity, hedgehogs do prefer it a bit on the higher side – ideal humidity is around 50-60%.
Thankfully hedgehogs are surprisingly hardy and can tolerate different levels of heat and humidity as long as it isn’t too extreme. So don’t worry too much if you’re not able to maintain the perfect environment for your pet hedgehog at home!
Do hedgehogs need constant heat?
There is a common misconception that hedgehogs need constant heat to stay healthy. While it is true that they are more susceptible to cold temperatures and need special care during cold weather, the truth is that they have evolved to be able to withstand colder climates. Hedgehogs don’t rely on constant warmth as rodents and other small animals do; rather, their bodies regulate temperature with behavior patterns, such as burying themselves under leaves or even puffing up their quills.
Hedgehog owners should provide additional heat sources if the temperature drops balanced with plenty of other enrichment and safe spaces for insulation. Providing an environment that meets your hedgehog’s needs can make your little friend happy and healthy for years!
How do I know if my hedgehog is too cold?
Knowing if your hedgehog is too cold can be tricky since the animals are not very vocal. To determine how comfortable your pet is, check its ears and feet. If they are cool to the touch, that’s a sign your hedgehog is too chilled out! You may want to wrap it in a warm towel and take it up a few degrees in temperature as quickly as possible.
Hedgehogs aren’t usually resilient to drastic changes in temperature and will become ill quickly if exposed to a chilly environment for long periods. Keep an eye on its nose as well; healthy hedgehogs have warm and moist noses whereas those experiencing the cold have cool, dry ones.
It’s always best to err on the side of caution – provide adequate warmth and make sure that your hedgehog is tucked away in a comfortable spot away from drafts or open windows so that it remains happy and healthy.
How do I know if my hedgehog is too hot?
If your hedgehog feels hot and is panting, you can be sure it’s too warm for them. In that case, you need to give them some cool-down time as soon as possible. Providing a cold towel or icepack on the ground of their enclosure can also help reduce the heat quickly. Additionally, if your hedgehog begins to act sluggish or listless, this can be an indication that they are too hot and need relief from the warmth. Make sure to monitor the temperature of their environment; it should always stay within a range of 72-80°F (22-27°C), as any greater temperature poses potential risks to their health and well-being.
Conclusion
After all that research, we know that hedgehogs prefer temperatures of 68-80℉ and absolute humidity levels of 40-70%. However, your hedgehog will have an optimal temperature and level of humidity for them specifically. You should always be vigilant about the temperature of their environment, making sure it’s comfortable for them.
A great tool to help you with this is a thermostat or thermometer so that you can measure both the temperature and humidity in their enclosure. If you plan on having multiple hedgehogs, then getting a larger enclosure is recommended to give them more room to move around and create their own space. Additionally, try adding some rocks, logs, or tubes inside the enclosure for your hedgehogs to explore.
Lastly, an exercise wheel is always a great thing to add to the mix as it gives them something stimulating and allows them to get a good bit of running exercise. With these tips in mind, you can create a safe and comfortable living environment that’s perfect for your pet hedgehog!
