Do Hedgehogs Need Deep Bedding? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, hedgehogs absolutely need deep bedding to burrow, nest, insulate themselves, and express natural behaviors crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Without sufficient bedding, a hedgehog’s health and happiness will be severely compromised.
Why Deep Bedding is Crucial for Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs are natural burrowers. In the wild, they create intricate nests beneath leaves, roots, and soil. This behavior isn’t just instinctive; it’s essential for their survival. Replicating this environment in captivity is vital for their well-being.
The Benefits of Deep Bedding
Providing deep bedding offers numerous benefits for your hedgehog:
- Insulation: Hedgehogs are susceptible to temperature changes. Deep bedding allows them to burrow down and stay warm, protecting them from drafts and cold temperatures.
- Comfort and Security: A deep layer of bedding provides a safe and comfortable space where hedgehogs can feel secure and hidden from potential threats.
- Natural Burrowing Behavior: Allowing a hedgehog to burrow satisfies their natural instincts and prevents boredom. This stimulation is essential for mental health.
- Nesting: Hedgehogs will use the bedding to create a nest, a safe and comfortable space for sleeping and resting.
- Waste Management: Deep bedding helps absorb urine and control odors, making cage cleaning easier and maintaining a hygienic environment.
What Constitutes “Deep” Bedding?
So, how deep is deep enough? While individual preferences may vary, a minimum depth of 6-8 inches is generally recommended. A good rule of thumb is to ensure the hedgehog can completely burrow and disappear within the bedding.
Suitable Bedding Materials
Choosing the right bedding material is as important as providing sufficient depth. Here are some suitable options:
- Paper-Based Bedding: This is often considered the best option. Shredded paper bedding is absorbent, dust-free, and safe for hedgehogs. Brands like Carefresh are popular.
- Fleece Liners (with underlayer): Fleece liners, while reusable, require a very absorbent layer underneath (like puppy pads or a thick layer of paper bedding) to wick away moisture. They must be cleaned regularly (daily spot-cleaning, full cleaning every 2-3 days) to prevent ammonia buildup.
- Aspen Shavings: Aspen shavings are a natural option that is relatively absorbent and doesn’t contain harmful oils. However, ensure the shavings are dust-extracted to minimize respiratory irritation.
- Kiln-Dried Pine Shavings: Some owners use kiln-dried pine shavings, but it’s controversial. Ensure they are thoroughly kiln-dried to remove harmful oils. Some still recommend avoiding them altogether.
Bedding Materials to Avoid
Certain bedding materials are harmful to hedgehogs and should never be used:
- Cedar Shavings: Cedar shavings contain aromatic oils that are toxic to hedgehogs and can cause respiratory problems and liver damage.
- Cat Litter: Cat litter can be ingested by hedgehogs and cause blockages. The dust can also irritate their respiratory systems.
- Corn Cob Bedding: Corn cob bedding can mold easily and can cause impaction if ingested.
- Sawdust: Sawdust is too dusty and can cause respiratory problems.
Common Mistakes Regarding Hedgehog Bedding
- Using insufficient bedding: Failing to provide adequate depth is the most common mistake.
- Using inappropriate materials: Cedar shavings and cat litter are particularly dangerous.
- Infrequent cleaning: Even with deep bedding, regular cleaning is essential to prevent ammonia buildup and maintain a hygienic environment.
- Not spot-cleaning: Daily spot-cleaning to remove soiled bedding is necessary even when full cage cleaning is less frequent.
Maintaining Deep Bedding: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Choose the right bedding: Select a safe and appropriate material from the list above.
- Provide sufficient depth: Aim for a minimum of 6-8 inches.
- Spot-clean daily: Remove soiled bedding and replace it with fresh material.
- Perform a full cage clean: Remove all bedding and clean the cage thoroughly every 1-2 weeks, depending on the size of the cage and the number of hedgehogs.
- Replace bedding regularly: Replace all the bedding during the full cage clean.
- Monitor temperature: Ensure the cage temperature remains within the optimal range for hedgehogs (72-80°F or 22-27°C).
| Frequency | Task | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| ————– | ————————— | —————————————————————————————————— |
| Daily | Spot Clean | Remove soiled bedding, reducing ammonia buildup and maintaining hygiene. |
| Every 1-2 Weeks | Full Cage Clean | Remove all bedding, clean the cage thoroughly to prevent bacterial growth and control odors. |
| As Needed | Temperature Monitoring | Ensure consistent temperature within the ideal range; adjust heating or cooling as needed. |
| Ongoing | Bedding Material Inspection | Regularly check for mold, pests, or signs of deterioration; replace as needed to maintain quality. |
The Impact of Inadequate Bedding on Hedgehog Health
Failing to provide adequate bedding can have serious consequences for a hedgehog’s health. It can lead to:
- Stress: Lack of burrowing opportunities and security can cause stress and anxiety.
- Self-Mutilation: Stressed hedgehogs may engage in self-mutilation, such as biting their quills.
- Hypothermia: Insufficient insulation can lead to hypothermia, especially in cold environments.
- Respiratory Problems: Dusty or inappropriate bedding materials can cause respiratory irritation and infections.
- Foot Injuries: Walking on hard surfaces without sufficient bedding can cause foot injuries and bumblefoot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it okay if my hedgehog doesn’t burrow?
Even if your hedgehog doesn’t appear to burrow constantly, providing deep bedding allows them the option to do so, which is crucial for their natural instincts and sense of security. Some hedgehogs burrow more than others, but the opportunity should always be available.
What if my hedgehog eats the bedding?
It’s not uncommon for hedgehogs to nibble on their bedding, especially when they’re exploring a new environment. Paper-based bedding is generally safe in small amounts. However, if your hedgehog is consistently eating large quantities of bedding, consult a veterinarian. Consider switching to a different type of bedding or providing more enrichment to deter the behavior.
How often should I change the bedding?
You should spot-clean the bedding daily, removing any soiled areas. A full cage clean, where you remove all the bedding and disinfect the cage, should be performed every 1-2 weeks, depending on the size of the cage and how messy your hedgehog is.
What’s the best way to clean a hedgehog cage?
Remove all the bedding and wash the cage with warm soapy water. Use a pet-safe disinfectant to kill any bacteria. Rinse thoroughly and allow the cage to dry completely before adding fresh bedding.
Can I use old towels as bedding?
While towels can be used in addition to other bedding, they are not a suitable replacement for deep bedding. Towels don’t provide the same level of insulation or burrowing opportunities. They also don’t absorb urine as effectively, which can lead to ammonia buildup.
Is fleece a good bedding choice?
Fleece liners are a popular choice because they are reusable and washable. However, they must be used with a highly absorbent layer underneath to wick away moisture. They also require more frequent cleaning than other bedding options to prevent ammonia buildup.
What temperature should my hedgehog’s cage be?
Hedgehogs are sensitive to temperature changes and thrive in a stable environment between 72-80°F (22-27°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the cage temperature and adjust heating or cooling as needed.
How can I encourage my hedgehog to burrow?
Bury treats within the bedding to encourage exploration. Provide tunnels and other hiding places to make the bedding more inviting. Ensure the bedding is deep enough for comfortable burrowing.
My hedgehog is sneezing a lot. Could it be the bedding?
Yes, dusty bedding can irritate a hedgehog’s respiratory system and cause sneezing. Switch to a dust-free bedding option like paper-based bedding or thoroughly dust-extracted aspen shavings. If the sneezing persists, consult a veterinarian.
Does Do hedgehogs need deep bedding? even if they have a separate sleeping house?
Yes, Do hedgehogs need deep bedding even if they have a separate sleeping house. The house provides a specific sleeping area, but the deep bedding still offers insulation, burrowing opportunities, and a sense of security throughout the entire enclosure. It’s not just about sleeping; it’s about replicating a natural environment.
What are the signs of bumblefoot in hedgehogs, and how is it related to bedding?
Bumblefoot is a bacterial infection of the feet, often caused by walking on hard, abrasive surfaces. Providing deep, soft bedding can help prevent bumblefoot by cushioning the feet and reducing the risk of injury. Signs of bumblefoot include swelling, redness, and sores on the feet.
Can I use shredded newspaper as bedding?
Shredded newspaper can be used as bedding in a pinch, but it’s not the best option. It’s not as absorbent as paper-based bedding and the ink could potentially be harmful if ingested in large quantities.