Hedgehog Cage Basics

Since hedgehogs are still relatively unusual pets, it isand cube and cloroplast cages like those used for
not that easy to find commercial hedgehog cages.guinea pigs.
Luckily, it is fairly easy to buy or assemble aSize
perfectly decent hedgehog cage with materialsYour hedgehog needs a minimum of two square feet
commonly available in discount stores or on theof uninterrupted walking space. Supplies like food
Internet.dishes, water bottles, wheels and toys typically take
Choosing the best hedgehog cage materialsup two square feet. For this reason it is
The best materials are light weight, easy to clean,recommended that you select a cage that is at least
nonabsorbent, allow for proper air circulation, and dofour square feet total.
not have rough or dangerous surfaces.Where can I place my hedgehog's cage?
Avoid:Since your hedgehog is very sensitive to
· Glass or acrylic aquariums as these do nottemperature, it is very important to keep him or her
allow for proper ventilation, become dangerouslyout of direct sunlight, away from drafts, and not in
warm when combined with a heating element, andany location that has regular temperature fluctuation.
tend to collect odor.Be sure to keep your hedgehog's cage out of areas
· Commercial cages with wire floors mustwhere other pets, such as the family dog, may
also be avoided completely. Hedgehogs can easily fallspend a lot of time. Even if a cage is properly
through this type of flooring resulting in broken legssecured, pets can spend a lot of time sniffing around
and other serious injuries.this area. Ongoing attention of this sort is going to be
· Wood is also not an ideal material forstressful for your pet and simply not good for his or
hedgehog cages. Wood tends to absorb body fluidsher health.
and become stinky.Finally, as hedgehogs are very active at night, keep in
The best materials for hedgehog cages includemind that having the hedgehog cage in your bedroom
sterlite storage tubs (frequently found in largecould result in interrupted sleep for light sleepers.
discount stores like Wal-Mart for reasonable prices)