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How can I safely heat my hedgehog's cage with a heat lamp?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Male | unneutered | 1lb

What is the best way to heat hedgehog cage with lamp?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Miranda Sadar, DVM, DACZM

Veterinarian

Published on June 28th, 2018

Thank you for your question! My preferred method for warming a hedgehog cage is to use a ceramic heat bulb. They are sold in the reptile section of most pet stores. The reason that I prefer this type of bulb is that they only emit heat, and no light, so Quilliam's day/night cycle will not be affected. Many of the brands will also have a chart on them to assist you in what wattage you need from the bulb, but you will need the distance from the bulb to Quilliam (aka the height of the cage) as well as your desired temperature in order to use the chart (temperature recommendations for hedgehogs are 70-80F depending on what care sheet you are using). I would also recommend monitoring the temperature in his cage once you have added your heat bulb to ensure that it is within the desired range. This can be performed with a digital thermometer - these are also often found in the reptile section of most pet stores. I hope that helps to answer your question, and good luck!

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