Signs include dry and cracked skin, especially of the face and ragged, crusty ear margins. The hedgehog is usually not itchy and many animals may be asymptomatic carriers. Bacterial Disease Skin abscesses may be found anywhere on the body but we have seen them more commonly around the face and head. Bite wounds or traumatic injury may often result in adscess formation. Bcaterial dermatitis can occur due to contact with wet shavings or excessive scratching due to mites or dry skin.
Treatment involves using topical and systemic antibiotics.
Dental Disease Thorough examination of the teeth and gums of hedgehogs usually requires sedation. Dental tartar and gingivitis are commonly seen in hedgehogs. Clinical signs may include anorexia or reluctance to eat hard or dry foods. Treatment involves scaling of dental tartar and extraction of loose or decaying teeth. The prevention of tooth and gum disease is the usage of hard food as a major portion of the diet.