Temperatures lower than 70 degrees are considered “cold” for hedgehogs and can result in a hibernation attempt, which can be fatal. A sudden drop in temperature, even if it doesn't get below 70 degrees, can still trigger a hibernation attempt or cause other health problems.
How do I know if my hedgehog is too cold?
Signs of hedgehogs in danger of being too cold are decreased activity, decreased appetite, sneezing (as opposed to puffling). So, if she's not on her wheel and exploring at night, eating her food and turning down mealworms and other treats, check the temperature in her enclosure!
At what temperature do hedgehogs hibernate?
A lot of breeders and vets use the rule of 68°F is the start of the danger zone. Anything at this temperature or below significantly increases the likelihood that your hedgehog will go into hibernation. They like it toasty!
What temperature will a hedgehog go into hibernation?
A decrease in ambient room temperature or a draft can cause your hedgehog to become too cool and start the hibernation or slow down process. Hibernation can be induced at temperatures as low as 68 ̊F.
What happens when a hedgehog gets cold?
When it's cold, there are less insects available to sustain them, so hibernation makes sense. ... Therefore, when a pet hedgehog attempts to hibernate, it can quickly escalate into an emergency situation. The drastic decrease in their metabolic rate can compromise their immune system.
How do I know if my hedgehog is dying?
Gently cover the hedgehog with an old towel or fleece to make it feel more secure and offer some meaty cat or dog food and water. Once you have the hedgehog settled somewhere quiet indoors, call the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) on 01584 890 801.
How do you tell if a hedgehog is hibernating or dead?
A hibernating hedgehog will be completely rolled up into a tight ball with no face visible. You can tell that the hedgehog is hibernating and not dead by the fact that it will ‘ripple' when touched very gently. It may also emit a little ‘snore'! Hedgehogs also generally don't die curled up....
What triggers hibernation in hedgehogs?
While heat is usually the primary trigger of hedgehog hibernation, light can play a role as well. Hedgehogs are nocturnal, but they respond to cycles in light just like any other animal. If their room isn't getting enough light during the daytime it can trick them into thinking it's time for hibernation.
What happens if a hedgehog doesn't hibernate?
As a result, hedgehog hibernation among pet hedgies can lead to serious health complications and even death. While their body does the “right” thing by slowing their heart rate, breaths per minute , and decreasing their temperature, they inevitably can't handle being in that state.
How long does it take for a hedgehog to hibernate?
Their heart rate and breathing also become very slow and their body temperature decreases dramatically. An animal in this state is said to be in torpor – rather than asleep. Wild hedgehogs in colder climates often hibernate for around 6 months , though this is decreasing as the global climate warms.
Is 70 degrees too cold for a hedgehog?
The temperature of the room should stay between 72 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit at all times. With 74 – 78 degrees is the ideal temperature for a pet hedgehog. Hedgehogs can die from both cold and heat extremes. If a hedgehog is too cold they will not be as active and will be more grumpy and huffy when handled.
How do you wake up a hibernating hedgehog?
If you do accidentally disturb a hibernation nest, cover it back over with a thick layer of dry leaves and perhaps leave some dog food and water nearby, so if the hedgehog does wake up, he can easily find something to eat before he goes to find a new hibernation spot and rebuilds his nest.
Do hedgehogs bite?
Hedgehogs can bite you , but very rarely will that happen. This usually happens when they are young and think your fingers are going to feed them (if they have been fed via a syringe as they had no mother). ... They are strong enough to dig their teeth in to your flesh, however, they very rarely bite.
What happens if a hedgehog pricks you?
Hedgehogs can be dangerous because their quills can penetrate skin and have been known to spread a bacteria germ that can cause fever, stomach pain and a rash, the report said.
What should I do if I see a hedgehog during the day?
Generally, any hedgehog out during the day is probably in trouble and will need to be picked up and taken to a wildlife rescue centre . You can pick them up using gardening gloves and put them into a cardboard box, although they are good climbers, so you would need to ensure it cannot escape.
How do you comfort a dying hedgehog?
- You can use antibiotics and TLC to ease the pain and suffering. ...
- One recommendation is to purchase Pedialyte to keep your hedgehog hydrated. ...
- Put a warm water bottle next to your hedgehog especially when sleeping to keep them warm.
