Why is my hedgehog losing quills and has dry skin after having babies?

Thanks for reaching out about Peggy and including a photo. The skin does appear a little flakey. Dermatopathies such as quill mites, skin infections, vitamin A deficiencies or other nutritional problems needs to be investigated. Monitor her for being itchy. If you continue to have problems or the condition progresses, a veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Good luck.

Hello, and thank you for your question. Possible causes of itching in hedgehogs include dry skin, mites, bacterial infection, or ringworm. I'd recommend starting with a vet exam, who may be able to help pinpoint a cause by physical exam alone. They will likely recommend a medication for mites, even if none are seen, as mites are a common cause of itching. In the meantime, you can try supplementing Gummy's diet with a bit of omega 3 oil in case dryness is involved. I'd also do a thorough clean of her cage, accessories and bedding in case of mites, although this won't be effective in itself - we'd need to treat Gummy with medication from the vet as well. I hope this helps, and that Gummy is feeling better soon!

Most mites are species specific, so there is little concern the mites will choose you over Milo. Call your vet and confirm Revolution use prior to administration. Apply it at least 2-3 days after bathing. If you have other pets, they should be treated as well.

They do not usually get them form insects- but can get them from bedding, other hedgies and other pets. This does sound like it could potentially be a parasite so I would see a vet for some testing to find out what it is-- she can give you some meds if needed to get rid of any parasite-- there is not anything safe over the counter for most of the parasites that might affect them. Make sure to get rid of any wood shavings in her cage and keep it very clean and urine free.

It should like Comet is getting really sick. Hedgehogs can get bladder stones, urinary tract issues but also endocrine disease (issues with cortisol) and cancers. I would recommend taking Comet to a vet for a good physical exam and possible bloodwork and x-rays. IT is important to figure out the exact cause so proper treatment can be started. I hope Comet starts to feel better soon

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. If you can have little Henry seen by a veterinarian, this would be best, because it sounds like he may be suffering from internal & external parasites. A stool sample would show if Henry has a parasite called coccidia, or other parasites such as lungworms, tapeworms , or other species of nematodes. The rubbing could result from the presence of the common mange mite of hedgehogs, although they can also harbor other mite species, fleas & ticks. Keeping his environment very clean ( every 2 days ) will prevent reinfestation once he receives treatment. Hope all is well soon with Henry.

Yes, I would temporarily remove her wheel. You can also try using this spray on her lesions. If no improvement in a week or so you should have a vet check her as this could be ringworm or skin mites. https://vetericyn.com/product/vetericyn-plus-all-animal-wound-and-skin-care/