Post by Lilith on Nov 24, 2016 19:12:16 GMT
What is
Hibernation & Estivation
Hibernation & Estivation
Hibernation attempts can be potentially fatal to a hedgehog. When a hedgehog becomes too cold, their body responds by slowing their metabolic rate, although not successfully. They are unable to enter full hibernation due to their natural warm environment; their bodies aren't built to handle the cold. As a result, if left too long the hedgehog may pass away. Signs of hibernation include a cold underbelly, lethargic behaviour, unresponsiveness, and usually they will be found curled up in a tight ball. This is an emergency, and should be handled carefully. For the first hour, place your hedgehog against your belly, skin to skin. Cover them in blankets if needed. DO NOT Place your hedgehog under warm water. The drastic temperature change can do more harm than good. You need to warm them up gradually. You may also use a heat pad but make sure to keep it on LOW. Hopefully within an hour you will start to see some signs of consciousness. If not, you need to get them to a vet right away. It is always good to have emergency supplies ready to prevent this issue, particularly in the event of a power outage. Keep hand warmers near your hogs cage at all times. I will be selling hand warmer covers in my Etsy store in the near future as well, as you shouldn't place them directly against your hedgehog. Once a hedgehog attempts hibernation, they are much more likely to try again. You should closely monitor your pet for a while afterwards just in case, and be sure to turn their thermostat up a couple degrees for about a week.
Keep in mind the exact opposite can also happen. If a hedgehog becomes too warm, they go through a process called estivation. Estivation is very similar to hibernation, and is defined as a period of prolonged dormancy in an animal during hot or dry periods. Although much less common, it still holds the same risk as hibernation. If your hedgehog is estivating you'll notice it splat out on its belly someplace cooler. If it hasn't cooled down shortly after that, you may notice it begin to pant. If either of these things happen, you need to lower the temperature for it. Again, do not place your hedgehog in cold water; this can lead to the same problems mentioned above. Grab a plate and place your pet on the cool surface. You can turn the temperature down in their cage, and even turn on the air conditioning if you have it. Just make sure the cool down period is gradual and not forced all at once. If your pet begins estivating, do not panic. Keep in mind that it is often much easier to cool your pet down than it is to warm them up.
My final point will be this; if you think your pet is in real danger, please proceed to take them to a veterinarian. You may post on our forums to ask questions. We are always happy to offer advice and suggestions, but the members opinions here will never be a replacement for proper medical care. We may be experienced owners, but ultimately a veterinarian is much more capable of diagnosing and keeping your pet safe. Please use your discretion when posting here.
Last edit: 12/28/16
Made by Time Lapse of Adoxgraphy.
