Tube Dweller...

[jeffbot]

Hello,

Olive's been staying in the tube for a couple of days now. It's the tube that connects the two containers she calls home. I've just cleaned her home, while she was staying in the tube, and have noticed that she ate some kibble, drank some water, and disturbed her litter tray. I really don't know why she's staying in the tube. Maybe I entertain her... It's a see through tube. :)

[Steph]

Does she have another "nesting area" to use during the day? If not she could be using the tube in place of a nest because it feels safe and secure enough to sleep in. As long as she's eating, drinking, and pooping ok, then I wouldn't worry too much about it but you might consider an Igloo or other solid sided nest, see if that fishes her out of the tube.

[jeffbot]

she usually just climbs underneath the liner. HEHEHE.

[jeffbot]

She's Out!!! Yay.

[Steph]

It sounds to me like she's looking for a place to hide out, they really crave a dark, private, space to get to in the daytime (or during periods of activity in the home).

You might consider a hedgie bag or an Igloo.

I like the Roody Igloo from Jeffers Pet Supply: http://www.jefferspet.com

It's cheap, really easy to clean because it comes apart, and durable and my hedgies love it.

Just go to search and type Igloo and the Roody comes up I think 2nd or 3rd, also make sure it's the Guinea Pig sized one, the Hamster one is tiny. :)

[jeffbot]

the thing is, the tube is translucent, and has ventilation holes, and is very non-private. HAHA. its one of the ferrettrail tubes. I guess she likes the view. :)

[Steph]

I would bet it's more the feeling of security she gets form the solid surroundings, could well be she just likes the tube but I am guessing it's a feeling of safety she gets from it.

[Ododad]

Does she have another "nesting area" to use during the day? If not she could be using the tube in place of a nest because it feels safe and secure enough to sleep in. As long as she's eating, drinking, and pooping ok, then I wouldn't worry too much about it but you might consider an Igloo or other solid sided nest, see if that fishes her out of the tube.
I agree. Hedgies love their privacy. Providing a dark sleeping place away from prying eyes for her during the day will go a long way towards making her feel comfortable.