Hedgehogs are naturally quiet and solitary animals, which makes it difficult to tell when something is wrong. They often hide signs of illness until it becomes serious. That’s why it’s important to learn the early signs your hedgehog might be sick and what to do if you notice them.
In this guide, you’ll discover the most common symptoms of illness in hedgehogs and how to respond quickly to keep your pet healthy and safe.
Why You Need to Watch Closely
Hedgehogs are prey animals in the wild, so they instinctively hide weakness. This means they may look fine on the outside even if they are unwell. By paying attention to small changes in behavior, eating habits, and appearance, you can catch problems early and seek help in time.
Common Signs Your Hedgehog Might Be Sick
1. Loss of Appetite
If your hedgehog suddenly stops eating or eats much less than usual, it’s a warning sign. Skipping meals for more than 24 hours is not normal.
What to do:
- Offer favorite treats (mealworms, cooked chicken)
- Check for spoiled food or dirty water
- If appetite doesn’t return within 1–2 days, contact a vet
2. Lethargy or Unusual Sleepiness
Healthy hedgehogs are active at night. If yours is sleeping all the time, not using their wheel, or seems too tired to move, it may be ill.
What to do:
- Check the cage temperature (should be 72°F–80°F or 22°C–27°C)
- Look for signs of injury or pain
- Visit a vet if behavior continues for more than a day
3. Wobbling or Unsteady Walking
If your hedgehog is stumbling, falling over, or walking strangely, this could be a sign of a neurological issue, infection, or even Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS).
What to do:
- Remove any hazards in the cage
- Record a video to show your vet
- Seek urgent veterinary care
4. Weight Loss
Rapid or steady weight loss is a red flag, especially if your hedgehog is still eating. Weigh your pet weekly using a small scale.
What to do:
- Monitor food intake
- Check for parasites, dental problems, or diarrhea
- Get a vet checkup to find the cause
5. Unusual Poop or Diarrhea
Hedgehog droppings should be firm and brown. Diarrhea, green stool, or very smelly poop are signs of illness or stress.
What to do:
- Switch to a bland diet (dry kibble only)
- Keep water available at all times
- See a vet if diarrhea lasts more than a day
6. Runny Nose or Sneezing
Repeated sneezing, wheezing, or a wet nose could mean a respiratory infection. Hedgehogs are sensitive to dust, bedding, and drafts.
What to do:
- Switch to dust-free bedding
- Keep the cage warm and away from fans or AC
- Take your hedgehog to the vet if breathing sounds abnormal
7. Dry or Flaky Skin
Some dry skin is normal during quilling, but extreme flakiness, bald patches, or scabs could signal mites or a skin infection.
What to do:
- Avoid scented soaps or harsh cleaning products
- Do not bathe too often (it can dry out the skin)
- A vet can check for mites and prescribe treatment
8. Odd Smells or Discharge
A healthy hedgehog should not have a strong odor. Foul smells or discharge from the eyes, ears, mouth, or genitals may mean infection.
What to do:
- Gently clean the area with a damp cloth
- Avoid using any creams or medication without vet advice
- Book a vet appointment for proper diagnosis
9. Lumps or Swelling
If you feel a lump or notice swelling under the skin, this could be a tumor, cyst, or abscess.
What to do:
- Don’t squeeze or poke the lump
- Keep the area clean and dry
- Get it checked by a vet as soon as possible
What to Do If You Think Your Hedgehog Is Sick
- Monitor Closely
Write down symptoms, changes in behavior, and anything unusual. - Keep the Environment Stable
Maintain proper temperature, fresh food and water, and clean bedding. - Minimize Stress
Reduce handling, noise, and cage changes until your hedgehog is stable. - Call an Exotic Vet
Not all vets treat hedgehogs, so find an exotic animal vet in your area ahead of time. - Do Not Self-Medicate
Avoid using human medications, over-the-counter drops, or unapproved treatments.
Prevention Tips
- Clean the cage daily and deep-clean weekly
- Feed a balanced, nutritious diet
- Avoid sudden changes in environment or food
- Handle your hedgehog gently and regularly to check for problems
- Keep a regular vet check-up schedule
Final Thoughts
Even though hedgehogs are quiet and independent pets, they still rely on you to recognize when something is wrong. By learning the signs of illness and acting quickly, you can keep your hedgehog safe, healthy, and happy.
Trust your instincts—if your hedgehog “just doesn’t seem right,” it’s better to be safe and call a vet.
