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Why is my hedgehog's penis swollen, pooping everywhere, and rubbing?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | 2 months and 28 days old | 1.5 lbs

My hedgehog has a swollen penis area. He is poopy runny and he usually poops in his litter tray however he is upturning his water and pooping everywhere in his cage. He seems to be rubbing himself along the bottom of his cage on his belly too.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Linda G,  MS, DVM

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 25th, 2017

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.
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