Treatment consists of administration of topical antifungals (eg, enilconazole, clotrimazole) in spray or shampoo formulations and/or oral agents (eg, terbinafine
Terbinafine
This medication is used to treat a variety of fungal skin infections such as ringworm, athlete's foot, and jock itch.
How do you treat ringworm on a hedgehog's ear?
Another common type of fungal infection that can infect a hedgehog's ears is ringworm. Veterinary treatment for these type of infections may include Clortimazole drops applied topically or some other prescription fungicide (like Panalog which is an antibiotic/anti fungal cream) applied twice a day until the fungus falls off of the ear.
How do you treat an infected leg on a hedgehog?
Hedgehog bath for a badly infected leg. The warm hibiscrub bath helps to soften scabs and remove dirt embedded in the wound. Depending on the nature of the injury, pain relief may also be required as well as antibiotics. Octavia received special antibiotic that is very good at treating open wounds and abscesses.
What should I do if my Hedgehog has a UTI?
Make sure your hedgehog is drinking enough water to help flush the infection out of their system. Click here to see our hedgehog water intake guide to determine how much water you should encourage your hedgehog to drink. You may need to offer it in a syringe if your hedgehog is dehydrated.
What are the most common fungal infections in hedgehogs?
Dermatophytes cause common fungal infections, such as ringworm, in hedgehogs. These infections can be transmitted to humans and other pets, so it is important to treat this condition quickly, while ensuring that it is done in a sanitary manner.
How do hedgehogs get fungal infections?
Hedgehogs can become infected by interacting with another infected individual or by contact with a contaminated surface. Fungal spores have been found to survive for over a year in hedgehog nests. Infected hedgehogs and contaminated surfaces, such as feeding areas and nests, can be sources of ringworm infection.
How do you treat mange on hedgehogs?
Treating mange involves rehydrating the afflicted animal with electrolytes and glucose, giving antibiotics for pneumonia and two or three Ivomec injections for the mites and maggots.
Can hedgehogs recover from mange?
If caught early, the spread of both ringworm and mange can sometimes be stopped. If not, it can take many weeks or months of treatments to clear.
What is hedgehog ringworm?
Ringworm is the common name used to describe some fungal skin diseases in mammals. The most common agent responsible for ringworm in the Western European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is a dermatophyte (skin fungus) called Trichophyton erinacei.
Is apple cider vinegar safe for hedgehogs?
2:3216:06Apple cider vinegar for hedgehogs?! || November Q&A - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFrom family so yes it is I would free feed it because it is lower in fat.MoreFrom family so yes it is I would free feed it because it is lower in fat.
What kills hedgehog mites?
Freeze the remaining bedding and kibble that is in its packaging for 24 hours to kill any mites that may be in them and to prevent reinfestation. Keep the affected hedgehog separate from other pets for a week or so until you're sure the infestation has been eradicated.
How can you tell the difference between mange and ringworm?
With mange, the hairs usually break off at the base, whereas in ringworm, they often break off part way down the shaft. Mange is most common in the autumn, and is often brought on by the stress caused when moving animals indoors for the winter. Mange is usually more common than ringworm.
Is ivermectin safe for hedgehogs?
Ivermectin at the appropriate dosage is very safe in hedgehogs, but overdosage could make them very ill (which is true in most mammals). Ivermectin dosages for hedgehogs are very small and are diluted from the large mammal (cattle/pig) solution in order to be safe.
What's wrong with my hedgehog?
Ear infections, obesity, allergies, enteritis, osteoarthritis, and other ailments can all occur in your hedgehog. Therefore, an annual physical examination is recommended to keep your hog as healthy as possible for as long as possible. If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately.
How do I know if my hedgehog is infected?
Signs of illness or disease are often vague and non-specific, such as lack of appetite and lethargy. Therefore, any deviation from your hedgehog's normal habits should be cause for concern and should be evaluated by your veterinarian.
What causes white patches on hedgehogs?
Some hedgehogs have occasional white spines, some are "blond" or leucistic caused by a rare recessive gene, some are true albinos, and some are white with black eyes and nose. These variations are generally rare except on North Ronaldsay and Alderney where 25% of the population is thought to be blond.
What does hedgehog sick look like?
Seeing one out in daylight could be a key indicator that the hedgehog is sick and in need of your help, especially if it is during winter time when most hedgehogs should be hibernating. Sick hedgehogs could be thin, dehydrated, possibly poisoned or have breathing problems.
Can you treat mange without going to the vet?
There are a few possible home remedies for treating mange. From bathing to spot cleaning or food additives, mange might be handled at home, although if any of the remedies are not working, then seeing your veterinarian is best. An apple cider vinegar bath can help get rid of the mange mites.
What is the best treatment for mange?
Ivermectin, injected subcutaneously and delivered multiple times at a dose rate of between 200–400 µg/kg, was found to be the most commonly used acaricide and effective in the treatment of sarcoptic mange in both captive and free-living wildlife.
How do I get rid of mange?
Treating MangeTrimming hair/fur.Bathing dogs in medicated shampoos weekly to heal and soften skin.The use of topical medications more long-term, over a period of several weeks. Oral treatments are also sometimes used. Consult your veterinarian before use.
How do you get rid of mange naturally?
Olive Oil Some owners have had success in treating very mild cases of localized mange with olive oil. Just apply a thin layer of the oil to the affected areas of your dog's skin. The oil may smother any mites present, and it'll also help to re-moisturize your dog's skin and quell your dog's non-stop itchiness.
What is the disease of a hedgehog?
Acariasis caused by Caparinia spp (psoroptic mite) is very common. Infestation with Notoedres spp (sarcoptic mite) has also been reported in hedgehogs. Signs include lethargy, decreased appetite, hyperkeratosis, seborrhea, quill loss, loose quills, and white or brownish crusts (mite droppings) at the base of the quills and around the eyes. Hedgehogs may scratch or rub themselves, but many individuals do not have obvious pruritus. Some animals have subclinical infestations. Diagnosis is confirmed by identifying mites and eggs (nits) via skin scraping. Treatment consists of ivermectin or a combination of ivermectin and amitraz. All bedding must be removed, and cage furnishings disinfected or discarded. During treatment, the cage is lined with paper that must be changed daily. All hedgehogs in the home should be treated concurrently.
What are the symptoms of a hedgehog?
Most of the affected hedgehogs had nonspecific signs such as decreased appetite and weight loss; vomiting and diarrhea were not observed.
What causes hedgehogs to be lame?
Bone cysts should be considered as a differential for mandibular masses, along with neoplasia and trauma. Fractures can occur when a limb becomes entrapped in a wire cage or exercise wheel. Splinting can be performed for distal limb fractures. Surgical correction may also be performed, but any fixation device must be able to withstand the hedgehog's strong rolling-up mechanism. Lameness may be caused by ingrown toenails, arthritis, nutritional deficiencies, pododermatitis, constriction of a foot or digit by fibrous material, neurologic disease, or neoplasia.
What causes a hedgehog to have a swollen urine?
Urinary Diseases of Hedgehogs. Cystitis and urolithiasis in hedgehogs cause changes in urine color, stranguria, pollakiuria, inappetence, and lethargy. Urinalysis with culture should be obtained and diagnostic imaging performed. Kidney disease is also common and in many cases may be secondary to systemic disease.
How long does it take for a hedgehog to die?
Death usually occurs 18–25 months after the onset of clinical signs. Appetite is usually normal until the terminal stages, at which point most hedgehogs become dysphagic.
What is dilated cardiomyopathy in hedgehogs?
Dilated cardiomyopathy (see Cardiomyopathies) is a common postmortem finding, with an incidence of 38% in captive African hedgehogs. The etiology is not known; however, genetic and nutritional causes have been suggested. Affected hedgehogs are typically ≥ 3 yr old, although it may be seen in animals as young as 1 yr of age. Males are slightly overrepresented. Signs include dyspnea, decreased activity, weight loss, an auscultable murmur, ascites, and acute death. Radiographs typically demonstrate varying degrees of cardiac enlargement, pulmonary edema, pleural effusion, hepatic congestion, and abdominal fluid. Common gross necropsy findings associated with cardiovascular disease in hedgehogs include cardiomegaly, hepatomegaly, pulmonary edema and/or congestion, hydrothorax, ascites, and pulmonary or renal infarcts. Normal echocardiographic measurements have been published for the African pygmy hedgehog. These reference intervals, along with subjective evaluation of wall motion and chamber size, can be used to confirm the diagnosis of dilated cardiomyopathy. Hematologic and biochemical testing are useful to screen for concurrent problems and to monitor the effects of therapeutic agents. Therapy with furosemide, enalapril, and digoxin may be helpful. Alternatively, furosemide, pimobendan, and supplementation with oral carnitine have been used. The longterm prognosis for hedgehogs with congestive heart failure is poor.
What causes GI obstruction in hedgehogs?
GI obstructions are often caused by ingestion of rubber, hair, or carpet fibers. Clinical signs include acute anorexia, lethargy, and collapse. Vomiting may occur. Marked gaseous dilation of the GI tract can be a nonspecific finding in ill hedgehogs, complicating diagnosis.
What is the treatment for a parasitic hedgehog ear infection?
Commonly, the treatment for a parasitic hedgehog ear infection may include ear drops that consist of a combination of Neomycin + Permethrin.
What is the infection on a hedgehog's ear?
Fungal Infection On A Hedgehog's Ear. Another type of hedgehog ear infection that commonly exhibits tattered ears is a fungal infection. Ear fungus – visually looks like little gray or cream “fingers” growing around the edges as shown in the picture above.
How to tell if a hedgehog has an ear infection?
A hedgehog that has a middle or inner ear infection will often have discharge that oozes from the ear. This type of ear infection is unlike the others that have early tell-tale signs evident on the outer ear. With careful observation, it can often be caught by watching your hedgehog's behaviors. An inner or middle ear infection almost always affects a hedgie's balance. They may go in circles like their steering is broken. They may wobble as they stand or walk. Or, they may even experience vertigo. Their balance is almost always affected in some way.
Why do hedgehogs scratch their ears?
If you see your hedgehog scratching at their ear (s), it could simply be dry skin. BUT, it could also be an early sign of a hedgie ear infection instead. Some subtle things can actually signal infection -or- nothing medically significant. If you observe any of the following, take note!
How to prepare for a vet visit?
Here are some tips to help prepare you for your vet visit. Many vets will use a combination of methods to arrive at a diagnosis. Every vet visit begins with a discussion regarding your observations. When we said take note earlier, we literally meant it. Writing things down as you observe them helps you discuss what you see happening. It may be diagnostically significant! In a short office visit, your hedgie may not exhibit all the symptoms that may only occur intermittently.
What supplements can help with ear mites?
A dietary deficiency can often be helped by the addition of a nutritional supplement high in Omega-3, Omega-6, and some Omega-9.
Do hedgehogs shake their heads?
Hedgehogs can be a little quirky at times. So some of their strange behaviors seem…well…normal (for a hedgehog at least). One day you may notice that they're periodically shaking their heads (like a dog out of a bath). And then, before you know it, they have stuff oozing out of their ears.
How to treat a hedgehog that is lethargic?
Hedgehogs that are lethargic and have stopped eating require aggressive therapy in the hospital; fluid therapy and force-feeding may be necessary. Diarrhea is managed by determining the cause, correcting the diet and providing the appropriate medication. It may be possible surgically to remove some cancerous tumors.
What are the common diseases of hedgehogs?
What are some of the common diseases of pet hedgehogs? Common conditions of pet hedgehogs include external and internal parasites, ringworm, cancer, gastrointestinal diseases and pneumonia.
Why do hedgehogs cough?
Respiratory diseases, especially pneumonia, are often seen in pet hedgehogs. Symptoms may include nasal discharge, sneezing, and difficulty in breathing. Severely affected pets may be listless and stop eating. One of the most common causes of pneumonia in hedgehogs is the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica, which causes kennel cough in dogs.
What parasites are found in hedgehogs?
External parasites include fleas, ticks, and mites, and cause various types of dermatitis. Caparinia tripolis is the mite most commonly found in pet hedgehogs. It is often discovered while examining the face, as they run around the face, forehead and ears.
How do you know if a hedgehog has mites?
These mites come from direct contact with other infected hedgehogs or from contaminated litter or cages where infected animals have been living. Although many animals show no clinical signs, signs may include spine loss, flaky skin, crusts at the base of the spines and scratching or rubbing against stationary objects.
What are the symptoms of a hedgehog?
As is true with many hedgehog diseases, clinical signs may not be specific for cancer and simply include weight loss, lack of appetite and lethargy.
Can hedgehogs have parasites?
Both internal and external parasites are seen in hedgehogs. Intestinal parasites ("worms" and protozoa) can cause diarrhea and may be diagnosed on the basis of a fecal examination in animals that are not showing any symptoms. External parasites include fleas, ticks, and mites, and cause various types of dermatitis.
What is the best way to diagnose a hedgehog's urinary tract disease?
A urinalysis, culture, radiographs and a bladder ultrasound will all aid in diagnosing the urinary tract disease of your hedgehog. Kidney infections, bladder tumors and other diseases of the urinary system are also seen. Many other diseases exist and can be diagnosed by your exotics vet.
Why do hedgehogs need a physical exam?
Ear infections, obesity, allergies, enteritis, osteoarthritis, and other ailments can all occur in your hedgehog. Therefore, an annual physical examination is recommended to keep your hog as healthy as possible for as long as possible. If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately.
What causes a hedgehog to wobble?
Neurological Diseases . Commonly referred to as "wobbly hedgehog syndrome," hedgehogs can develop a neurological disease that causes them to, well - wobble. Ataxia progresses to falling over, being unable to right themselves, seizures, and eventually paralysis with many other symptoms in between.
How many teeth do hedgehogs have?
Hedgehogs have up to 44 teeth in their tiny, V-shaped mouths. These teeth are like miniature versions of our teeth and are prone to similar dental issues. Fractured teeth, abscessed teeth, gingivitis, and tartar accumulation can all cause problems in our little hedgies. 1 Preventing any dental issue is of course ideal but not always practical in a pocket pet that likes to roll his body into a spiky, hissing ball. If you can get lucky enough to gain access to the mouth of your spiky friend, then you might be a mealworm. No seriously, if you can get a Q-tip into your hedgie's mouth then brush away with water and work on keeping those chompers shiny.
What is the name of the tumor that a hedgehog has?
Uterine cancers, an infected uterus called pyometra, and mammary tumors can all result from your hedgehog hanging onto her reproductive organs. 1 These diseases can all be prevented by having an ovariohysterectomy performed on your female hedgehog at about six to eight months of age.
Why is my hedgehog's urine yellow?
But sometimes hedgehogs develop a urinary tract infection or cystitis, both of which can cause the urine to be brown or bloody.
Can you brush a hedgehog's teeth?
No seriously, if you can get a Q-tip into your hedgie's mouth then brush away with water and work on keeping those chompers shiny. If brushing your hedgehog's teeth is futile then be prepared to have a dental cleaning with possible tooth extractions performed at some point in your hedgehog's little life.
What is ringworm in hedgehogs?
Dermatophytosis, or ringworm, has been described in the hedgehog ( 8 ). Lesions in the animal are similar to those found in other species and include nonpruritic, dry, scaly skin with bald patches and spine loss ( 8 ). Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. erinacei is the dermatophyte most commonly isolated from the quills and underbelly of hedgehogs, although Microsporum spp. have also been reported ( 8 ). Hedgehogs can be asymptomatic carriers of these fungi ( 8 ), and herein lies their potential for zoonotic transmission.
What is the behavior of a hedgehog?
Hedgehogs display an unusual behavior called “anting” or “anointing” ( 7 ). When first encountering a new or interesting object or food, the animal will lick the substance repeatedly until a frothy saliva forms in its mouth ( 3 ). The animal then rubs the excess saliva and froth onto its skin and spines ( 3 ).
Why are hedgehogs banned in the US?
The importation of these pets from Africa to the United States has been prohibited since 1991 (Title 9 Code of Federal Regulations Section 93.701) due to their potential to carry foot-and-mouth disease, a foreign animal disease of serious economic concern to the livestock industry ( 6 ). In the United States, persons who sell hedgehogs are required ...
Where did hedgehogs originate?
These animals originally arrived from Europe, Asia, and Africa, and although several species exist, 2 in particular are commonly seen as pets ( 3 ): the European hedgehog, Erinaceus europaeus, and the smaller African pygmy hedgehog, Atelerix albiventris ( 3 ). The importation of these pets from Africa to the United States has been prohibited ...
How many people own hedgehogs?
These animals are considered to be unique, low-maintenance pets ( 4 ), and an estimated 40,000 households in the United States now own them ( 5 ).
Where did the hedgehog get M. marinum?
In the reported case, the hedgehog apparently acquired M. marinum from the fish tank in which the animal was housed at a pet store ( 15 ). In humans, the organism is associated with a cutaneous disease called “fish-tank granuloma,” which is frequently contracted from contact with aquariums ( 16 ).
Do hedgehogs have encephalitis?
Several arboviral encephalitis viruses have been studied in the hedgehog. One study showed that hedgehogs are susceptible to even small amounts of Tahyna virus of the family Bunyaviridae and may produce a viremia level sufficient to ensure infection of mosquitoes ( 24 ). Hibernating hedgehogs may play a role as potential long-term reservoirs of the virus ( 24 ). Bhanja virus, also a member of the Bunyaviridae, has also been studied in European hedgehogs ( 25, 26 ). Hedgehogs did not generate viremia titers, which indicates that the animals are likely not maintenance hosts for the virus ( 25 ). However, Hubalek et al. ( 26) suggested that the low level of antibodies may indicate that hedgehogs are passive distributors of infected ticks. The potential role of hedgehogs as natural hosts of these viruses and the risk that they may introduce these arboviruses in nondisease-endemic areas still need to be documented.
What is a hedgehog bath?
Hedgehog bath for a badly infected leg. The warm hibiscrub bath helps to soften scabs and remove dirt embedded in the wound. Depending on the nature of the injury, pain relief may also be required as well as antibiotics. Octavia received special antibiotic that is very good at treating open wounds and abscesses.
What is the most common admission to the Hedgehog Hospital?
Emma Kate Farley. Wounded hedgehogs are some of the most common admissions to the hedgehog hospital. Infected wounds, particularly from dog attacks, are becoming more common. This is Octavia, who was treated for a nasty facial wound.
Why are hedgehogs checked?
Upon arrival, hedgehogs are checked to assess the nature of their wounds. They will also go through a range of other checks to assess their size, weight, general health and whether they have internal or external parasites. Some hedgehogs will immediately be taken to a vet for treatment if the wound is very severe.
Can a hedgehog break bones?
Many will require x-ray to ascertain the extent of any damage and infection. With any wound, it is possible that an impact may have caused bones to break. Abscesses can also track deep into the bone.
Do hedgehogs have wounds?
Hedgehogs are obviously wild creatures and wounds may have picked up all kinds of dirt and debris. Hedgehog wound treatments. Hedgehog bathing as part of wound treatment. The treatment for wounds like this takes a long time. This wound is being cleaned regularly to soften the scabs and to keep it sterile.
How to get rid of a fungus in a hedgehog's ears?
If the infection is already present on the hedgehog’s ears, immediately take your hedgehog to the veterinarian where they can administer fungicides to clear the infection and reclaim their ears. Lastly, there are middle and inner ear infections that strike deeper into the ear canal than most others.
What are the most common problems with hedgehogs?
Ear infections are the most common problem but there’s more than one kind out there. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the other infections that interfere with your pet, from tiny mites to parasitic fungi. Ear mites are a cause of secondary bacterial infections on the ears of animals, including hedgehogs.
How to get hedgehog ears to look good?
They’re also the primary cause of the so-called tattered ears that we mentioned above. Moisturizing the ears is a great way to destabilize the growth and get their ears looking good as new, though some hedgehogs will have to get used to you playing with their ears. Rub Vaseline or jojoba oil into them for best results.
Why is it important to pay attention to hedgehog ear problems?
That’s why paying attention to possible symptoms is so important, so you can get help earlier and pre-empt the worst of any hedgehog diseases.
Why is my hedgehog walking in circles?
If the hedgehog is walking in circles, leaning to one side (with an inability to walk straight) has seemingly become clumsy over the last few weeks , it’s likely to be an ear problem. Last but certainly not least, get up close and personal with your hedgehog pet to detect any physical symptoms coming from the ear.
What does it mean when a hedgehog's steering is broken?
If your hedgehog’s steering seems broken, they may have an inner-ear infection and need to see a veterinarian. When it comes to these infections, their balance is always affected somehow, so be vigilant for changes in how your hedgehog navigates the world.
Can hedgehogs get ear infections?
Ear infections are common enough that you’ll probably have to face one if you own a hedgehog. Fortunately for you, you’re in the right place to learn everything you need ...
How to treat a hedgehog infection?
How to treat and manage it. Make sure your hedgehog is drinking enough water to help flush the infection out of their system . Click here to see our hedgehog water intake guide to determine how much water you should encourage your hedgehog to drink. You may need to offer it in a syringe if your hedgehog is dehydrated.
How to keep hedgehogs from getting infected?
Cage bedding and litter choices often tell you have much dust the product contains. Begin purifying the air with an air purifier, and isolate your hedgehog away from other animals. Always keep the cage temperature at the recommended settings between 74°F – 80°F /23°C – 26.5°C. And during the time of infection, provide a warm humidifier at about 45% with the help of a hygrometer. Switching to fleece bedding is also recommended.
How to get rid of dehydrated hedgehog?
You may need to offer it in a syringe if your hedgehog is dehydrated. Consider using an air purifier and a warm mist humidifier paired with a hygrometer to bring the humidity to 45%. It may be tempting, but do not use vapor rub or eucalyptus or any kind of essential oils.
What does it mean when a hedgehog sneezes?
Sneezing and shortness of breath are symptoms of a URI, but can also mean something else not related to the respiratory system like a heart condition. Age is not a factor in hedgehog URI symptoms. Respiratory diseases affect young and old hedgehogs, at any point in their lives.
What is the upper respiratory infection in hedgehogs?
What is an upper respiratory infection in hedgehogs? Hedgehog URI symptoms come from irritated and infected nasal passages, their sinuses, oral cavities, back of their oral and nasal cavities (pharynx), and their vocal folds (larynx). Sneezing and shortness of breath are symptoms of a URI, but can also mean something else not related to ...
Why do hedgehogs have URI?
Most importantly, an upper respiratory infection may lead to death if not caught early enough, so get to a vet as soon as you can.
How many breaths per minute does a hedgehog breathe?
If your hedgehog is breathing more than 35 breaths per minute, contact an emergency vet immediately and let them know you are on your way so they can prepare for your arrival.
What antibiotics do hedgehogs take?
As for treatment, they typically get antibiotics, primarily trimethoprim, Amoxycillin, penicillin, lincomycin, clavulanic acid, or oxytetracycline . Antibiotics can take multiple dose cycles to fully clear the infection. Hedgehogs may not like receiving these medications, especially since they taste bad a lot of the time.
How to keep hedgehogs from contracting pneumonia?
The surest way to ensure a hedgehog survives pneumonia is to stop them from contracting it in the first place. Keep their dwellings clean and free of dust and isolate them from the rest of the household for two weeks to prevent the onset of respiratory issues, including pneumonia.
How long should hedgehogs be isolated?
As for what you can do to prevent these issues, you should keep hedgehogs isolated for two weeks when they are new to the household. Keep their area clean, free of dust, and well ventilated, too. In getting ventilation, avoid drafts as these can also cause respiratory issues.
What causes a hedgehog to sneeze?
Lack of ventilation in the cage. A pre-existing oral infection has been aspirated. Environmental temperature. Stress. You can identify a respiratory infection in your hedgehog through many different symptoms, the most common of which is sneezing and opaque mucus discharge from the nose.
How do you know if a hedgehog is lethargic?
They may also lose their appetite and their thirst for water and they may be lethargic, too. If unnoticed or untreated, the problem may present itself when the hedgehog suddenly dies.
Can a hedgehog have respiratory problems?
They’re best treated when they have been identified early so you can pre-empt the worst symptoms of the infection. To first treat any respiratory issues in your pet hedgehog, you need to find out what’s wrong.
Can a hedgehog be hospitalized?
In other cases, the hedgehog may be hospitalized at the vet so they can manage its needs properly by feeding and hydrating it and adding antibiotics during those treatments. Subcutaneous fluids may also be needed if the hedgehog is dehydrated and a nebulizer or other forms of assisted breathing may be used.