Pet hedgehogs are adorable and relatively low-maintenance pets, but like any animal, they are prone to certain health problems. Because hedgehogs tend to hide signs of illness, it’s essential to recognize early symptoms and know how to respond.
In this article, you’ll learn about the most common health issues in pet hedgehogs, their symptoms, and how they’re treated—so you can keep your prickly friend happy and healthy.
Why Hedgehogs Hide Illness
Hedgehogs are prey animals in the wild, so they instinctively hide pain and sickness. That means your pet may look fine even when something is wrong. As an owner, it’s your job to observe small changes in behavior, appearance, and habits to catch problems early.
1. Obesity
Symptoms:
- Fat rolls around legs and face
- Trouble curling into a ball
- Less activity, especially on the wheel
- Noticeable weight gain over time
Causes:
- High-fat diet
- Too many treats (especially insects)
- Lack of exercise
Treatment:
- Switch to a high-protein, low-fat kibble
- Limit fatty treats like mealworms
- Encourage more activity with toys and a proper exercise wheel
- Weigh your hedgehog weekly to monitor progress
2. Mites and Skin Conditions
Symptoms:
- Excessive scratching
- Quill loss or bald patches
- Red, dry, or flaky skin
- Visible tiny moving mites (in severe cases)
Causes:
- Contaminated bedding or toys
- Exposure to other animals
- Poor hygiene
Treatment:
- Visit an exotic vet for diagnosis
- Use vet-prescribed mite treatments (e.g., Revolution)
- Wash all cage items in hot water
- Avoid overbathing—too many baths dry the skin
3. Respiratory Infections
Symptoms:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose or eyes
- Wheezing or clicking sounds
- Lethargy or loss of appetite
Causes:
- Cold temperatures
- Drafty cage placement
- Dusty bedding
- Exposure to smoke or strong scents
Treatment:
- Keep the cage at a steady 72–80°F (22–27°C)
- Visit a vet for antibiotics
- Switch to dust-free bedding
- Move the cage away from air vents or windows
4. Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS)
Symptoms:
- Loss of coordination
- Wobbling or falling over
- Weakness in the back legs
- Progressive paralysis over time
Causes:
- Genetic neurological disease (no known cure)
- Typically appears in young adult hedgehogs (1–3 years old)
Treatment:
- No cure; focus on supportive care
- Soft bedding, hand feeding, and quality of life management
- In severe cases, humane euthanasia may be necessary
- Breeding from WHS-prone lines should be avoided
5. Dental Disease
Symptoms:
- Drooling
- Bad breath
- Difficulty chewing
- Loss of appetite
- Swelling around the mouth or jaw
Causes:
- Infections or abscesses
- Tooth decay
- Poor diet
Treatment:
- Visit a vet for an oral exam
- Teeth cleaning or extraction if needed
- Offer softened food temporarily
- Maintain proper diet with dry kibble for tooth wear
6. Digestive Problems and Diarrhea
Symptoms:
- Runny, green, or very smelly stool
- Sudden change in poop color or texture
- Weight loss
- Dehydration
Causes:
- Sudden diet change
- Spoiled or unsafe food
- Bacterial or parasitic infection
- Stress
Treatment:
- Offer bland, dry kibble only
- Remove fruits, treats, or new foods
- Ensure fresh water is always available
- See a vet if symptoms last over 24 hours or worsen
7. Tumors and Lumps
Symptoms:
- Visible swelling or lump under the skin
- Weight loss
- Fatigue or behavioral changes
- Bleeding or discharge (if external)
Causes:
- Benign growths or cancer
- More common in older hedgehogs
Treatment:
- Vet examination and possibly a biopsy
- Surgical removal if operable
- Pain management or supportive care depending on condition
8. Eye Infections or Injuries
Symptoms:
- Swollen, cloudy, or shut eye
- Discharge or redness
- Frequent scratching at the face
Causes:
- Scratches from bedding or toys
- Dirty cage conditions
- Infection or foreign object
Treatment:
- Vet-prescribed eye drops or ointment
- Clean cage thoroughly
- Remove sharp or small items that could cause injury
9. Constipation
Symptoms:
- Difficulty pooping or dry, hard stool
- Swollen belly
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
Causes:
- Dehydration
- Low-fiber diet
- Stress or lack of movement
Treatment:
- Offer unsweetened pumpkin puree (small amount)
- Encourage exercise and hydration
- Massage the belly gently
- Visit a vet if the issue doesn’t resolve within 24 hours
How to Prevent Health Problems
- Keep the habitat clean with daily spot cleaning and weekly deep cleans
- Maintain proper temperature and humidity levels
- Feed a nutritious, balanced diet
- Offer regular exercise and mental stimulation
- Observe your hedgehog daily for subtle changes
- Schedule annual check-ups with an exotic vet
Final Thoughts
Understanding common hedgehog health issues helps you catch problems early and provide the right care. While some conditions are mild and treatable, others can become serious if ignored. Always trust your instincts—if your hedgehog doesn’t seem quite right, consult a vet.
With good care, a safe environment, and close attention to your hedgehog’s behavior, you’ll be giving your pet the best chance for a long, happy life.
