🌸 Spring Hedgehog Prep: Cleaning, Quilling & Seasonal Tips

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🌸 Spring Hedgehog Prep: Cleaning, Quilling & Seasonal Tips


Spring is in the air—and while your hedgehog may not be frolicking through flower fields (though, how cute would that be?!), the changing season does come with a few important care reminders.


Here’s how I prep my hedgies—Peanut and Aurora—for springtime and what you should know as temps rise and routines shift.

🧼 1. Spring Clean the Enclosure


Just like we spring clean our homes, this is the perfect time to deep-clean your hedgie’s space!


Checklist:

  • Wash all fleece liners and replace any worn ones

  • Deep clean the wheel (because… poop)

  • Wipe down the enclosure walls and all hard surfaces

  • Sanitize water bottles, food dishes, hideouts, and tunnels

  • Double-check for any chewed or worn enrichment items


Freshening up their space not only keeps them healthy—it gives them a little “reset” too.

🌡️ 2. Keep Temps Consistent


As spring brings warmer days and cooler nights, temperature fluctuation can be tricky. Hedgehogs are very sensitive to temperature drops and may attempt to hibernate if it dips too low.


Spring Tip:

Use a thermostat-controlled ceramic heat emitter to maintain a steady 75–80°F in the enclosure—no matter what the weather outside is doing.

🪶 3. It’s Not Shedding—It’s Quilling


Hedgehogs don’t really shed like dogs or cats, but they do go through a process called quilling, especially during their first year. Springtime often aligns with this stage for younger hedgies.


What to Expect:

  • You may find a few quills in their bedding

  • Your hedgie might be extra grumpy (imagine growing a bunch of sharp new hair!)

  • Handling might be more sensitive—be extra gentle


Peanut was an angel during quilling. Aurora? She was a little thorny diva. But both made it through just fine with extra snuggles (and some dried mealworms for peace offerings).

🌿 4. Rotate & Refresh Enrichment


Spring is a great time to swap out or rotate toys and dig bin fillers. New smells and textures can bring renewed curiosity and joy.


Ideas to try:

  • Add herbs like chamomile or lavender to dig bins

  • Switch to paper crinkle instead of shredded filler

  • Try new tunnels or snuffle mats for extra scent exploration

  • DIY spring-themed toys (flower-shaped foraging cups? yes please)

Final Thoughts:


Spring isn’t just about blooming flowers—it’s about refreshing your routines, checking your setups, and making sure your prickly pals are comfy and content as the seasons shift.


Got a spring hedgie routine you love? Drop it in the comments or tag us on Instagram @setarehhedgehogs—we’d love to see how you’re celebrating the season!

For more hedgehog care tips, fun stories, and updates, be sure to check out our website at Setareh Hedgehogs. Don't forget to follow along on Instagram @setarehhedgehogs to see more adorable hedgie moments. We can’t wait to share the quill-filled fun with you!


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