Where NOT to place your hedgehog  Posted 10/30/09   When bringing home a hedgehog, much consideration must be given to the location in which to place his/her cage.  You want to ensure that you place your hedgehog in a safe and temperature controlled location.  Special consideration should also be given to the fact that hedgehogs are nocturnal (and most likely, you are not).   The ideal temperature range for hedgehogs is 72˚ – 80˚F.  It is important that you have a digital thermometer to properly monitor the temperature in your hedgehog’s cage.  Even if the room temperature is comfortable for you, it may not be adequate for your hedgehog.  A common mistake among new hedgehog owners is thinking that they can properly determine the temperature without a thermometer.  Hedgehogs can only briefly tolerate temperatures beyond the ideal range and should never be exposed to inappropriate temperatures for more than 2-3 hours.  Such exposure can lead to illness and even death.  Cage placement can play a large role in maintaining an adequate temperature.   You should avoid placing your hedgehog in the following locations in your home:   ·         Fireplaces – NEVER place your hedgehog near a fireplace.  Temperatures near fireplaces can often exceed 90˚ and the smoke and fumes emitted can be lethal to your hedgehog.  Caged animals (of any species) should never be placed within 15 feet of a fireplace. ·         Near Windows – Windows are often drafty and allow marked temperature fluctuations.  During winter months, the temperature difference near a window can be as much as 20˚ colder than the center point of the room.  In summer months, windows can act as a large magnifying glass, amplifying heat from the sun, leading to hyperthermia. ·         Near Doors – Doors are quite often drafty and entry doors are extremely likely to cause marked temperature fluctuations by allowing outdoor temperatures into your hedgehog’s home each time the door is opened. ·         Laundry Room – While it seems an unlikely area to place your hedgehog, some folks may try this.  I strongly advise against it.  Obviously there may be temperature fluctuations when the dryer is in use.  The noise will undoubtedly cause stress for your hedgehog.  Most importantly, if a hedgehog is placed on top of either the washer or dryer, the vibration can cause the hedgehog to become ill and could lead to death.  Vibration will not only cause gastric (stomach) disturbances, it can also cause inner ear problems and even neurological issues.  Just avoid this room altogether. ·         Kitchens – Though it may sound silly, some folks do have caged animals in or near their kitchen.  This should be avoided.  Kitchens can often exceed ideal temperatures when an oven is in use.  Fumes from gas stoves/ovens can be harmful or lethal.  Often, a kitchen can be a stressful place for hedgehogs, as there is an increased amount of noise (pots and pans clanging, fridge door being opened and closed, etc.), increased traffic through the area and a large volume of smells.  Too many odor fluctuations can cause your hedgehog to become reluctant to eat and/or become withdrawn or aggressive. ·         Bedrooms – Bedrooms may be kept at a cooler temperature in some cases, for the comfort of the humans.  In addition to temperature problems, there is the chance that your nocturnal friend may keep you awake all night ... or … you may even disturb him/her.  Unfamiliar sounds (especially when repeated over and over) can stress a hedgehog.  Repetitious snoring or squeaky beds can be bothersome to hedgehogs.  Often, when stressed by repeated noises, hedgehogs can exhibit behavioral changes which can lead to health problems.   If an area is uncomfortable or stressful to you, it will certainly be detrimental to your hedgehog.  Hedgies are far more sensitive than humans in so many aspects; particularly with sounds, smells and temperatures.