Content
- Dry skin
- Fungi and parasites
- Diarrhea and constipation
- Obesity and anorexia
- Respiratory diseases
- dental problems
O african pygmy hedgehog, also known as hedgehog, is the variety of this species that has gained more popularity in recent years as a pet, due to its small size and attractive appearance. These small mammals have nocturnal habits and are able to travel great distances in relation to their small size every day, so they must have space to exercise.
Although these animals are relatively easy to care for, they are very vulnerable to getting diseases just like all other animals. For this reason, PeritoAnimal wrote this article about most common diseases of the african pygmy hedgehog.
Dry skin
Skin problems are very common in hedgehogs. There may be some thorns falling off, scaling, areas of redness and crusting on the ears and hardening of the skin in that area.
There are several causes, from the presence of parasites on the skin until nutritional problems. To combat this situation it is necessary to go to the veterinarian and find out what the source of the problem is. It is possible that he recommends some oral treatment or even moisturizing the affected areas with some natural oils or ointments.
Fungi and parasites
As with cats and dogs, the hedgehog is host to several ticks, mites and fungi on his skin. As we know, ticks feed on the blood of animals and can cause anemia in your pygmy hedgehog, in addition to transmitting other diseases to the pet.
Mites can cause scabies, which causes thorns to fall out, itching and blackheads that can be seen on the skin. In addition, they make nests in furniture and pillows, infecting the entire house. Fungi can be dangerous if the hedgehog is sick and weak and spreads easily.
The veterinarian will tell you which topical treatments, or others that you think are more suitable, to put an end to these annoying invaders, as well as the steps to follow to sanitize your home. It is recommended that you thoroughly clean the hedgehog's cage, feeders, beds and toys.
Diarrhea and constipation
these are the gastrointestinal problems most common of this small mammal. Diarrhea is usually caused by a sudden change in food or lack of water, while constipation is often caused by stress and can be fatal in younger hedgehogs if not detected in time.
If you notice any changes in your hedgehog's defecation, you should consult an expert quickly. Never suddenly change your hedgehog's food, he should be used to a varied diet from an early age and you should change the water every day. avoid situations that make you nervous, such as manipulating him too much or exposing him to loud noises. It is very important to always have the basic care that allows your pet to live happy and healthy!
Obesity and anorexia
the african pygmy hedgehog has a tendency to gain weight quickly if you are overfed and do not exercise daily, because in nature these small animals walk great distances to get food. This excess weight can lead to hepatic lipidosis and skin problems, because moisture gets trapped in his folds.
It is recommended that you control his food portions and let him walk around the garden daily under your supervision, or go out with him to the park. A hamster wheel, suitable for its size, can be a good option for the time you are away.
at the other end we have the anorexia, which is also common in hedgehogs. characterized by food rejection, having several possible causes such as mouth pain, digestive problems and hepatic lipidosis. Finding out the reason for anorexia is essential to know how to treat it, but it is necessary to act quickly for the animal to eat again, and it may be necessary to force feed.
Respiratory diseases
Colds, pneumonia and rhinitis they are among the respiratory system diseases that most frequently attack the African pygmy hedgehog. Mucus, chills, loss of appetite and consequently weight may appear, sneezes, between others. If the hedgehog has these symptoms, it should be examined by a veterinarian to rule out a simple cold and confirm that it is not something more serious, such as pneumonia.
The factors that trigger respiratory diseases are usually too low temperatures, being the hedgehog highly sensitive, environment with a lot of dust and dirty (which can also lead to conjunctivitis) and even nutritional deficiencies, as the mammal's defenses are lower, making it vulnerable to the virus.
It may happen that, during walks in the garden, the hedgehog ingests slugs and becomes infected with pulmonary parasites, which can lead to coughing, dyspnea and eventually death if not acted on in time.
dental problems
The dental health of the hedgehog is crucial, not only to avoid discomfort for the animal, but also because dental problems can bring other problems, such as anorexia and its consequences.
A healthy mouth translates to pink gums and white teeth, any other shade being a sign of a possible problem. THE periodontitis it is the most frequent disease and can cause teeth to fall out.
The best way to avoid problems like this is to take care of your hedgehog's feeding. An ideal diet, which preserves the good condition of the dentures and the general health of your animal, should be varied, including raw and soft food with dry food. Even so, make sure that no debris is left between your teeth and consult your veterinarian to check the possibility of implementing a routine for brushing teeth if he finds it necessary.
This article is for information purposes only, at PeritoAnimal.com.br we are not able to prescribe veterinary treatments or perform any type of diagnosis. We suggest that you take your pet to the veterinarian in case it has any type of condition or discomfort.