How can I safely heat my hedgehog's cage with a heat lamp?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on October 19th, 2018

  Minimum cage size is 4 square feet for one hedgehog. Multilevel cages are fine, however be sure ramps are enclosed to prevent falls. Hedgehogs have poor eyesight and can walk off the side of a ramp.
  A cage should have a sleep/nest area, play area, feed area, a hide and an exercise apparatus.
  As long as the room is at least 72 F, supplemental heat is not required. You can use a ceramic heat emitter (CHE) which will produce heat without light if temps drop below that. Use a thermometer to make sure temps do not rise above 80 F.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on October 25th, 2017

  Room temperature between 72 F and 80 F is acceptable for hedgehogs. Ideal temperature is 74 F to 78 F. If temperatures drop too low for too long, your hedgehog may attempt hibernation.
  You can raise room temperature, use a heating pad (make sure it has a rheostat to prevent high temps) or use a CHE (ceramic heat emitter). If you choose a pad, wrap it in some towels and secure the cord against chewing. If you choose a CHE, make sure Santiago can't reach it. A thermometer is recommended to monitor temperature whenever using an external heat source.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful