Common Hedgehog Illnesses and Health Concerns
Hedgehogs, like all pets, can be prone to certain health issues. Being aware of common conditions and their symptoms can help you identify potential problems early. Some of the most common hedgehog health concerns include internal and external parasites, ringworm, cancer, pneumonia, obesity, and Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS).
Signs of an Unwell Hedgehog
Watch for these signs, which may indicate your hedgehog is unwell:
- Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS): A neurological condition causing a loss of coordination.
- Obvious Injury: Visible wounds or signs of trauma.
- Change in Appetite: A significant increase or decrease in food intake.
- Diarrhea or Green Stool: May indicate internal parasites or digestive issues.
- Excessive Quill Loss: Can be a sign of parasitic infection or stress.
- Nasal Discharge: Could signal respiratory infection or pneumonia.
Internal Parasites
Internal parasites are common in hedgehogs and can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea. A fecal examination by a vet is needed for diagnosis. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic drugs, which work by paralyzing or killing the parasites and their eggs.
External Parasites
Hedgehogs can also suffer from external parasites, which may cause excessive quill loss, flaky skin, and crusts at the base of spines. Signs include lethargy and the visible presence of fleas or mites. While hedgehogs don’t require the same treatments as dogs or cats, a regular bath (1-2 times per month) can help manage these external issues and keep your pet comfortable.
Obesity
Obesity is a common issue in hedgehogs, often caused by overfeeding or lack of exercise. Signs include an enlarged belly, difficulty moving, and lethargy. To prevent obesity, ensure your hedgehog has:
- Regular veterinary check-ups.
- A clean and suitable environment.
- A balanced diet with controlled portions.
- Access to fresh water.
- Plenty of exercise, both physical and mental stimulation.
- Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS): A neurological condition causing a loss of coordination.
- Obvious Injury: Visible wounds or signs of trauma.
- Change in Appetite: A significant increase or decrease in food intake.
- Diarrhea or Green Stool: May indicate internal parasites or digestive issues.
- Excessive Quill Loss: Can be a sign of parasitic infection or stress.
- Nasal Discharge: Could signal respiratory infection or pneumonia.
- Regular veterinary check-ups.
- A clean and suitable environment.
- A balanced diet with controlled portions.
- Access to fresh water.
- Plenty of exercise, both physical and mental stimulation.
- Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS): A neurological condition causing a loss of coordination.
- Obvious Injury: Visible wounds or signs of trauma.
- Change in Appetite: A significant increase or decrease in food intake.
- Diarrhea or Green Stool: May indicate internal parasites or digestive issues.
- Excessive Quill Loss: Can be a sign of parasitic infection or stress.
- Nasal Discharge: Could signal respiratory infection or pneumonia.
- Regular veterinary check-ups.
- A clean and suitable environment.
- A balanced diet with controlled portions.
- Access to fresh water.
- Plenty of exercise, both physical and mental stimulation.
- Approach slowly and calmly, as hedgehogs are easily startled by sudden movements or loud sounds.
- Scoop from underneath using one hand to support the belly.
- Use your other hand to support the back, ensuring the hedgehog feels secure.
- Avoid squeezing or pressing the hedgehog—this can cause stress or injury.
- Do not stroke the quills on the head, as most hedgehogs find this unpleasant.
- Scent Recognition: Place a fabric item (e.g. T-shirt, blanket) that smells like you into their enclosure. This helps them become familiar with your scent.
- Food Association: Offer treats regularly by hand. Associating your presence with food helps reinforce positive interactions.
- Quiet Time Bonding: One effective technique is to wear a dressing gown or hoodie, place the hedgehog inside, and relax while watching TV or reading. Staying calm and still encourages the hedgehog to settle and feel safe.
- Regular veterinary check-ups.
- A clean and suitable environment.
- A balanced diet with controlled portions.
- Access to fresh water.
- Plenty of exercise, both physical and mental stimulation.
- Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS): A neurological condition causing a loss of coordination.
- Obvious Injury: Visible wounds or signs of trauma.
- Change in Appetite: A significant increase or decrease in food intake.
- Diarrhea or Green Stool: May indicate internal parasites or digestive issues.
- Excessive Quill Loss: Can be a sign of parasitic infection or stress.
- Nasal Discharge: Could signal respiratory infection or pneumonia.
- Regular veterinary check-ups.
- A clean and suitable environment.
- A balanced diet with controlled portions.
- Access to fresh water.
- Plenty of exercise, both physical and mental stimulation.
- Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS): A neurological condition causing a loss of coordination.
- Obvious Injury: Visible wounds or signs of trauma.
- Change in Appetite: A significant increase or decrease in food intake.
- Diarrhea or Green Stool: May indicate internal parasites or digestive issues.
- Excessive Quill Loss: Can be a sign of parasitic infection or stress.
- Nasal Discharge: Could signal respiratory infection or pneumonia.
- Regular veterinary check-ups.
- A clean and suitable environment.
- A balanced diet with controlled portions.
- Access to fresh water.
- Plenty of exercise, both physical and mental stimulation.
- Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS): A neurological condition causing a loss of coordination.
- Obvious Injury: Visible wounds or signs of trauma.
- Change in Appetite: A significant increase or decrease in food intake.
- Diarrhea or Green Stool: May indicate internal parasites or digestive issues.
- Excessive Quill Loss: Can be a sign of parasitic infection or stress.
- Nasal Discharge: Could signal respiratory infection or pneumonia.
- Regular veterinary check-ups.
- A clean and suitable environment.
- A balanced diet with controlled portions.
- Access to fresh water.
- Plenty of exercise, both physical and mental stimulation.
- Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS): A neurological condition causing a loss of coordination.
- Obvious Injury: Visible wounds or signs of trauma.
- Change in Appetite: A significant increase or decrease in food intake.
- Diarrhea or Green Stool: May indicate internal parasites or digestive issues.
- Excessive Quill Loss: Can be a sign of parasitic infection or stress.
- Nasal Discharge: Could signal respiratory infection or pneumonia.
- Regular veterinary check-ups.
- A clean and suitable environment.
- A balanced diet with controlled portions.
- Access to fresh water.
- Plenty of exercise, both physical and mental stimulation.
- Approach slowly and calmly, as hedgehogs are easily startled by sudden movements or loud sounds.
- Scoop from underneath using one hand to support the belly.
- Use your other hand to support the back, ensuring the hedgehog feels secure.
- Avoid squeezing or pressing the hedgehog—this can cause stress or injury.
- Do not stroke the quills on the head, as most hedgehogs find this unpleasant.
- Scent Recognition: Place a fabric item (e.g. T-shirt, blanket) that smells like you into their enclosure. This helps them become familiar with your scent.
- Food Association: Offer treats regularly by hand. Associating your presence with food helps reinforce positive interactions.
- Quiet Time Bonding: One effective technique is to wear a dressing gown or hoodie, place the hedgehog inside, and relax while watching TV or reading. Staying calm and still encourages the hedgehog to settle and feel safe.
- Regular veterinary check-ups.
- A clean and suitable environment.
- A balanced diet with controlled portions.
- Access to fresh water.
- Plenty of exercise, both physical and mental stimulation.
- Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS): A neurological condition causing a loss of coordination.
- Obvious Injury: Visible wounds or signs of trauma.
- Change in Appetite: A significant increase or decrease in food intake.
- Diarrhea or Green Stool: May indicate internal parasites or digestive issues.
- Excessive Quill Loss: Can be a sign of parasitic infection or stress.
- Nasal Discharge: Could signal respiratory infection or pneumonia.
- Regular veterinary check-ups.
- A clean and suitable environment.
- A balanced diet with controlled portions.
- Access to fresh water.
- Plenty of exercise, both physical and mental stimulation.
- Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS): A neurological condition causing a loss of coordination.
- Obvious Injury: Visible wounds or signs of trauma.
- Change in Appetite: A significant increase or decrease in food intake.
- Diarrhea or Green Stool: May indicate internal parasites or digestive issues.
- Excessive Quill Loss: Can be a sign of parasitic infection or stress.
- Nasal Discharge: Could signal respiratory infection or pneumonia.
- Regular veterinary check-ups.
- A clean and suitable environment.
- A balanced diet with controlled portions.
- Access to fresh water.
- Plenty of exercise, both physical and mental stimulation.
Common Hedgehog Illnesses and Health Concerns
Hedgehogs, like all pets, can be prone to certain health issues. Being aware of common conditions and their symptoms can help you identify potential problems early. Some of the most common hedgehog health concerns include internal and external parasites, ringworm, cancer, pneumonia, obesity, and Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS).
Signs of an Unwell Hedgehog
Watch for these signs, which may indicate your hedgehog is unwell:
Internal Parasites
Internal parasites are common in hedgehogs and can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea. A fecal examination by a vet is needed for diagnosis. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic drugs, which work by paralyzing or killing the parasites and their eggs.
External Parasites
Hedgehogs can also suffer from external parasites, which may cause excessive quill loss, flaky skin, and crusts at the base of spines. Signs include lethargy and the visible presence of fleas or mites. While hedgehogs don’t require the same treatments as dogs or cats, a regular bath (1-2 times per month) can help manage these external issues and keep your pet comfortable.
Obesity
Obesity is a common issue in hedgehogs, often caused by overfeeding or lack of exercise. Signs include an enlarged belly, difficulty moving, and lethargy. To prevent obesity, ensure your hedgehog has:
Common Hedgehog Illnesses and Health Concerns
Hedgehogs, like all pets, can be prone to certain health issues. Being aware of common conditions and their symptoms can help you identify potential problems early. Some of the most common hedgehog health concerns include internal and external parasites, ringworm, cancer, pneumonia, obesity, and Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS).
Signs of an Unwell Hedgehog
Watch for these signs, which may indicate your hedgehog is unwell:
Internal Parasites
Internal parasites are common in hedgehogs and can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea. A fecal examination by a vet is needed for diagnosis. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic drugs, which work by paralyzing or killing the parasites and their eggs.
External Parasites
Hedgehogs can also suffer from external parasites, which may cause excessive quill loss, flaky skin, and crusts at the base of spines. Signs include lethargy and the visible presence of fleas or mites. While hedgehogs don’t require the same treatments as dogs or cats, a regular bath (1-2 times per month) can help manage these external issues and keep your pet comfortable.
Obesity
Obesity is a common issue in hedgehogs, often caused by overfeeding or lack of exercise. Signs include an enlarged belly, difficulty moving, and lethargy. To prevent obesity, ensure your hedgehog has:
Hedgehog Handling and bonding
Keeping Your Hedgehog Happy and Healthy
Comfort
Hedgehog handling involves gentle, gradual exposure to human interaction to build trust, while bonding can be fostered through regular, calm handling sessions and interactions that respect the hedgehogs comfort levels.
Handling and body with African Pygmy Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs are naturally shy animals equipped with sharp quills on their back as a defence mechanism. When frightened or uncertain, they curl tightly into a ball, making them difficult to handle safely and comfortably. Therefore, gentle and respectful handling is essential—for both your safety and the hedgehog’s wellbeing.
👐 How to Handle a Hedgehog Safely
You should only restrain a hedgehog when necessary, such as during medical treatment. To handle a hedgehog correctly:
Each hedgehog is different—some may tolerate more handling than others, so take time to understand your individual pet’s comfort level.
🧣 Techniques for Bonding
Developing trust takes patience, but consistent gentle interaction helps a hedgehog become more comfortable:
With time and patience, even the shyest hedgehogs can become more social and trusting of human interaction.
Incorrect way to hold a hedgehog
Correct way to hold a hedgehog
Common Hedgehog Illnesses and Health Concerns
Hedgehogs, like all pets, can be prone to certain health issues. Being aware of common conditions and their symptoms can help you identify potential problems early. Some of the most common hedgehog health concerns include internal and external parasites, ringworm, cancer, pneumonia, obesity, and Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS).
Signs of an Unwell Hedgehog
Watch for these signs, which may indicate your hedgehog is unwell:
Internal Parasites
Internal parasites are common in hedgehogs and can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea. A fecal examination by a vet is needed for diagnosis. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic drugs, which work by paralyzing or killing the parasites and their eggs.
External Parasites
Hedgehogs can also suffer from external parasites, which may cause excessive quill loss, flaky skin, and crusts at the base of spines. Signs include lethargy and the visible presence of fleas or mites. While hedgehogs don’t require the same treatments as dogs or cats, a regular bath (1-2 times per month) can help manage these external issues and keep your pet comfortable.
Obesity
Obesity is a common issue in hedgehogs, often caused by overfeeding or lack of exercise. Signs include an enlarged belly, difficulty moving, and lethargy. To prevent obesity, ensure your hedgehog has:
Common Hedgehog Illnesses and Health Concerns
Hedgehogs, like all pets, can be prone to certain health issues. Being aware of common conditions and their symptoms can help you identify potential problems early. Some of the most common hedgehog health concerns include internal and external parasites, ringworm, cancer, pneumonia, obesity, and Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS).
Signs of an Unwell Hedgehog
Watch for these signs, which may indicate your hedgehog is unwell:
Internal Parasites
Internal parasites are common in hedgehogs and can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea. A fecal examination by a vet is needed for diagnosis. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic drugs, which work by paralyzing or killing the parasites and their eggs.
External Parasites
Hedgehogs can also suffer from external parasites, which may cause excessive quill loss, flaky skin, and crusts at the base of spines. Signs include lethargy and the visible presence of fleas or mites. While hedgehogs don’t require the same treatments as dogs or cats, a regular bath (1-2 times per month) can help manage these external issues and keep your pet comfortable.
Obesity
Obesity is a common issue in hedgehogs, often caused by overfeeding or lack of exercise. Signs include an enlarged belly, difficulty moving, and lethargy. To prevent obesity, ensure your hedgehog has:
Common Hedgehog Illnesses and Health Concerns
Hedgehogs, like all pets, can be prone to certain health issues. Being aware of common conditions and their symptoms can help you identify potential problems early. Some of the most common hedgehog health concerns include internal and external parasites, ringworm, cancer, pneumonia, obesity, and Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS).
Signs of an Unwell Hedgehog
Watch for these signs, which may indicate your hedgehog is unwell:
Internal Parasites
Internal parasites are common in hedgehogs and can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea. A fecal examination by a vet is needed for diagnosis. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic drugs, which work by paralyzing or killing the parasites and their eggs.
External Parasites
Hedgehogs can also suffer from external parasites, which may cause excessive quill loss, flaky skin, and crusts at the base of spines. Signs include lethargy and the visible presence of fleas or mites. While hedgehogs don’t require the same treatments as dogs or cats, a regular bath (1-2 times per month) can help manage these external issues and keep your pet comfortable.
Obesity
Obesity is a common issue in hedgehogs, often caused by overfeeding or lack of exercise. Signs include an enlarged belly, difficulty moving, and lethargy. To prevent obesity, ensure your hedgehog has:
Common Hedgehog Illnesses and Health Concerns
Hedgehogs, like all pets, can be prone to certain health issues. Being aware of common conditions and their symptoms can help you identify potential problems early. Some of the most common hedgehog health concerns include internal and external parasites, ringworm, cancer, pneumonia, obesity, and Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS).
Signs of an Unwell Hedgehog
Watch for these signs, which may indicate your hedgehog is unwell:
Internal Parasites
Internal parasites are common in hedgehogs and can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea. A fecal examination by a vet is needed for diagnosis. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic drugs, which work by paralyzing or killing the parasites and their eggs.
External Parasites
Hedgehogs can also suffer from external parasites, which may cause excessive quill loss, flaky skin, and crusts at the base of spines. Signs include lethargy and the visible presence of fleas or mites. While hedgehogs don’t require the same treatments as dogs or cats, a regular bath (1-2 times per month) can help manage these external issues and keep your pet comfortable.
Obesity
Obesity is a common issue in hedgehogs, often caused by overfeeding or lack of exercise. Signs include an enlarged belly, difficulty moving, and lethargy. To prevent obesity, ensure your hedgehog has:
Hedgehog Handling and bonding
Keeping Your Hedgehog Happy and Healthy
Comfort
Hedgehog handling involves gentle, gradual exposure to human interaction to build trust, while bonding can be fostered through regular, calm handling sessions and interactions that respect the hedgehogs comfort levels.
Handling and body with African Pygmy Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs are naturally shy animals equipped with sharp quills on their back as a defence mechanism. When frightened or uncertain, they curl tightly into a ball, making them difficult to handle safely and comfortably. Therefore, gentle and respectful handling is essential—for both your safety and the hedgehog’s wellbeing.
👐 How to Handle a Hedgehog Safely
You should only restrain a hedgehog when necessary, such as during medical treatment. To handle a hedgehog correctly:
Each hedgehog is different—some may tolerate more handling than others, so take time to understand your individual pet’s comfort level.
🧣 Techniques for Bonding
Developing trust takes patience, but consistent gentle interaction helps a hedgehog become more comfortable:
With time and patience, even the shyest hedgehogs can become more social and trusting of human interaction.
Incorrect way to hold a hedgehog
Correct way to hold a hedgehog
Common Hedgehog Illnesses and Health Concerns
Hedgehogs, like all pets, can be prone to certain health issues. Being aware of common conditions and their symptoms can help you identify potential problems early. Some of the most common hedgehog health concerns include internal and external parasites, ringworm, cancer, pneumonia, obesity, and Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS).
Signs of an Unwell Hedgehog
Watch for these signs, which may indicate your hedgehog is unwell:
Internal Parasites
Internal parasites are common in hedgehogs and can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea. A fecal examination by a vet is needed for diagnosis. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic drugs, which work by paralyzing or killing the parasites and their eggs.
External Parasites
Hedgehogs can also suffer from external parasites, which may cause excessive quill loss, flaky skin, and crusts at the base of spines. Signs include lethargy and the visible presence of fleas or mites. While hedgehogs don’t require the same treatments as dogs or cats, a regular bath (1-2 times per month) can help manage these external issues and keep your pet comfortable.
Obesity
Obesity is a common issue in hedgehogs, often caused by overfeeding or lack of exercise. Signs include an enlarged belly, difficulty moving, and lethargy. To prevent obesity, ensure your hedgehog has:
Common Hedgehog Illnesses and Health Concerns
Hedgehogs, like all pets, can be prone to certain health issues. Being aware of common conditions and their symptoms can help you identify potential problems early. Some of the most common hedgehog health concerns include internal and external parasites, ringworm, cancer, pneumonia, obesity, and Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS).
Signs of an Unwell Hedgehog
Watch for these signs, which may indicate your hedgehog is unwell:
Internal Parasites
Internal parasites are common in hedgehogs and can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea. A fecal examination by a vet is needed for diagnosis. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic drugs, which work by paralyzing or killing the parasites and their eggs.
External Parasites
Hedgehogs can also suffer from external parasites, which may cause excessive quill loss, flaky skin, and crusts at the base of spines. Signs include lethargy and the visible presence of fleas or mites. While hedgehogs don’t require the same treatments as dogs or cats, a regular bath (1-2 times per month) can help manage these external issues and keep your pet comfortable.
Obesity
Obesity is a common issue in hedgehogs, often caused by overfeeding or lack of exercise. Signs include an enlarged belly, difficulty moving, and lethargy. To prevent obesity, ensure your hedgehog has: