Mites are external parasites that feed on pets.
They resemble tiny spiders and are red. One may not quickly notice the presence
of mites on hedgehogs because of their small size. Shedding of the spine is natural
in hedgehogs. However, pet owners can tell an abnormal shedding due to mite
infection if a hedgehog experiences hair loss, irritation of skin and quills,
dandruff, and flaky skin. Other symptoms to watch out for are weight loss and
weakness. An infected hedgehog also shows persistent scratching, biting,
licking, or chewing parts of its body. Pet owners should avoid self-medicating
their infected hedgehogs as some pets do not respond positively to medications.
It is best to follow the advice of a veterinarian Salisbury,
NC. If there is a suspected
mite infestation, the veterinarian may conduct skin scraping to get some
samples and confirm mites' presence. Hedgehogs can get mites from their
beddings, enclosure, food, or another hedgehog. So, it is essential always to
maintain clean surroundings.
