Why do Pet Hedgehogs need Heat via a hedgehog heat pad?

Millions of people around the world keep pet hedgehogs, a great addition is a hedgehog heat pad. These spiky little gnawers make wonderful companions once they have warmed up to you and are known for their playful personalities. But one question that often comes up is why do pet hedgehogs need heat. The answer, it turns out, is a little complicated. Let’s take a closer look.

Ideal Temperature for Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs are native to Africa, where the climate is warm year-round. In the wild, they typically live in temperatures that range from 77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, they are not well-suited to living in cooler climates.

When hedgehogs are kept as pets, they should be kept in an environment that is identical to their natural habitat. That means providing them with a warm place to rest and sleep. A good rule of thumb is to keep the temperature in their enclosure between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit at night.

Why Do Pet Hedgehogs Need Heat?

If the temperature is not maintained around a hedgehog, it can lead to several health issues.

Let us look at a few issues that may arise:

• Lethargy: If a hedgehog is too cold, it will become sluggish and lethargic. This can make it difficult for them to eat and drink, which can lead to dehydration and anorexia.
• Respiratory problems: Cold temperatures can also cause respiratory problems in hedgehogs. In extreme cases, pneumonia may develop.
• Hibernation: One of the most serious consequences of letting a pet hedgehog get too cold is that it may enter into a state of hibernation. Hibernation is a survival mechanism that allows animals to conserve energy when food is scarce. But in captivity, hibernation can be deadly because the hedgehog will not have access to the food and water it needs to survive.
• Weakened immune system: When hedgehogs are kept in cold temperatures, their immune system can become weakened. This makes them more susceptible to diseases and infections.
• Digestive problems: Cold temperatures can also lead to digestive problems in hedgehogs, such as constipation and diarrhea.
• Muscle atrophy: If a hedgehog is not given enough heat, its muscles can begin to atrophy (waste away). This can make it difficult for the hedgehog to move around and may even cause paralysis.
• Heart problems: In extreme cases, cold temperatures can cause heart failure in hedgehogs. This happens because the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently when it is cold.
• Death: If a hedgehog is not given enough heat, it can die.

As you can see, it is very important to make sure that pet hedgehogs are kept in warm environments. If you live in a climate that is not suitable for them, it is best to find another home for your hedgehog. There are many rescue organizations that specialize in rehoming hedgehogs, so there is no need to put your pet at risk.

Understanding Hibernation

Hibernation is a natural process that animals undergo when the weather starts to get cold. During hibernation, an animal’s body temperature and metabolism decrease in order to conserve energy. This allows them to survive for long periods of time without food or water.

Hedgehogs typically enter into a state of hibernation in the wild when the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. However, pet hedgehogs may begin to hibernate at lower temperatures if they are not used to the cold.

Hibernation is a very dangerous process for hedgehogs because their bodies are not designed to function properly at such low temperatures. If a hedgehog hibernates for too long, it will eventually die. For this reason, it is important to make sure that your hedgehog does not get too cold.

Signs That a Hedgehog Is Hibernating

There are several signs that you can look for to determine if your hedgehog is hibernating. These include:

• Decreased activity levels: If your hedgehog is normally very active and suddenly becomes lethargic, it may be entering into a state of hibernation.
• Decreased body temperature: Another sign that a hedgehog is hibernating is a decrease in body temperature. To check for this, you can place your hand on the hedgehog’s belly. If it feels cold to the touch, it is likely that the hedgehog’s internal temperature has dropped, and it is beginning to hibernate.
• Decreased appetite: Another common sign of hibernation is a decrease in appetite. If your hedgehog is not interested in food or water, it may be preparing to hibernate.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take action immediately. The longer a hedgehog remains in a state of hibernation, the greater the risk of death.

How to Prevent Hibernation

There are several things that you can do to prevent your hedgehog from entering into a state of hibernation. These include:

Keeping the Temperature Constant with a hedgehog heat pad

One of the most important things that you can do to prevent hibernation is to keep the temperature constant. Hedgehogs should be kept in an environment that is between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature drops below this, the hedgehog may start to hibernate.

Providing a Heat Source like a hedgehog heat pad

Another way to prevent hibernation is to provide a heat source for the hedgehog. This can be done with a heat pad or heat mat or even a hot water bottle. Just make sure that the hedgehog has access to the heat source and that it cannot get too close to it and burn itself.

Feeding Regularly

It is also important to make sure that your hedgehog is getting enough food. Hedgehogs need to eat frequently in order to maintain their body temperature. If they do not have enough food, they may start to hibernate.

What to Do If Your Hedgehog Begins to Hibernate? Buy a hedgehog heat pad

If you think that your hedgehog is beginning to hibernate, there are several things that you can do to try to wake it up. These include:

• Placing the hedgehog in a warm bath: One way to try to wake a hibernating hedgehog is to place it in a warm bath. The warm water will help to raise the hedgehog’s body temperature and may cause it to wake up.
• Rubbing the hedgehog’s belly: Another way to try to wake a hibernating hedgehog is to rub its belly. This will help to stimulate the hedgehog’s internal organs and may cause it to wake up.
• Placing the hedgehog in a warm room: Another option is to place the hedgehog in a warm room. The warmer temperature will help to raise the hedgehog’s body temperature and may cause it to wake up.

If you are unable to wake your hedgehog, it is important to take it to a veterinarian immediately. A veterinarian will be able to provide medical care and may be able to save the hedgehog’s life.

Final Thoughts on hedgehog heat pad

Hibernation is a natural process that allows hedgehogs to survive during the winter months. However, it can be a dangerous process for hedgehogs because their bodies are not designed to function properly at such low temperatures. If you notice any signs that your hedgehog is hibernating, it is important to take action immediately. The longer a hedgehog remains in a state of hibernation, the greater the risk of death. Remember, the best way to prevent hibernation is to keep the temperature constant and provide a heat source for the hedgehog.