Best Hedgehog Cages UK: Wire, Vivarium and Large Base

Picks were chosen by product type and the sizes and materials stated in each listing. We grouped wire cages, glass and vivarium enclosures, plastic and wooden designs so you can compare layouts, with details checked on 21 October 2026.

What Size Hedgehog Cage Does a Pygmy Hedgehog Need?

A pygmy hedgehog needs a cage with at least about 100 by 50 cm of solid floor, and bigger is better. These animals can travel long distances at night, so floor area matters far more than height. Space must fit a solid running wheel of at least 28 cm across, a hide, food and water bowls and a litter tray without crowding. Multi level cages are rarely useful, as hedgehogs climb poorly and can fall. Measure the room where the cage will sit before buying, leaving space around it for airflow and a heat source. Check the depth of the base too, since a deep tray keeps bedding inside when your hedgehog digs. A simple comparison tip is to mark out the cage footprint on the floor with tape, then place the wheel and hide inside the outline to see how much open space remains.

How Do These Hedgehog Cages Compare?

The table compares each hedgehog cage by style and build. Measure the floor area first, then check bar spacing, ventilation and whether there is room for a solid wheel.

Is a Wire Cage or Vivarium Better for a Hedgehog?

Both a cage for a hedgehog with wire sides and a deep plastic base, and a well ventilated vivarium can work, as long as the floor is solid and the space is big enough. Wire cages allow good airflow and are easy to clean, but bar spacing must be narrow enough that a hedgehog cannot squeeze its head through, and wire floors or ramps should be avoided because they injure feet. Glass and wooden vivariums hold warmth well, which helps in cooler UK homes, though they need vents to prevent damp. Plastic enclosures are light and simple to wash. Whatever the style, check that doors close securely, since hedgehogs are surprisingly good at escaping. As a quick test, hold a ruler against the bars on a wire design: gaps wider than about 1.5 cm are worth avoiding for a small hedgehog.

How Do You Keep a Hedgehog Cage Warm Enough?

Most pygmy hedgehog owners aim to keep the cage at around 22 to 26°C, using a thermostat controlled heat source. If the temperature drops too low, a pet hedgehog may try to hibernate, which can be dangerous for this species. Ceramic heat emitters fitted above a vivarium or a heat mat on one side of the cage, always controlled by a thermostat, are common choices. Place a digital thermometer at hedgehog level, not near the heater, to get a true reading. Leave one end slightly cooler so your hedgehog can move between zones. Avoid placing the cage near windows, doors or radiators, where temperatures swing. In summer, check that the room does not overheat. If you are unsure of the right setup for your animal, ask an exotics vet for advice on safe heating and temperature ranges.

What Should Go Inside a Hedgehog Cage?

A hedgehog cage needs a solid wheel, a hide, a litter tray, heavy food and water bowls, safe bedding and a thermometer. The wheel is essential, because pygmy hedgehogs run long distances at night, and it should have a solid surface of at least 28 cm across with no rungs that could trap feet. A hide or sleeping pouch gives security during the day. Many hedgehogs learn to use a shallow litter tray placed under or near the wheel, which keeps the rest of the cage cleaner. Choose bowls heavy enough not to tip, as hedgehogs often push things around. Some owners prefer a bowl for water, while others use a bottle, so watch which your hedgehog drinks from. Add a digital thermometer at floor level to check heat. Simple enrichment such as tunnels and digging boxes adds interest. Avoid wire ramps, small balls and anything with loose threads. Hedgehog cages should feel spacious once all items are in, with clear floor left for exploring.

We cover the rest of the setup in our guide to large hamster cages and the budgie cages guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last reviewed: 22 October 2026.