Hedgehogs are a much-loved British animal, but they are also prone to illness and injury. Here are the signs to look out for if you think a hedgehog in your garden is sick.
Hedgehogs are a cherished part of British wildlife, but they’re also susceptible to illness and injury. It’s crucial to know the signs that a hedgehog might be in trouble.
If you spot a hedgehog wandering around your garden during the day, it could be a sign that they’re unwell.
Knowing how to respond can be difficult, but the RSPCA has provided some guidance on not only identifying a sick hedgehog, but also what steps to take if they are ill.
And there are certain actions that should be avoided as they could exacerbate the situation.
The first step is to determine whether the hedgehog is genuinely ill. While seeing them out in daylight can suggest something is amiss, it’s not unheard of for them to be simply foraging.
A good method to assess if a hedgehog is unwell is by cautiously approaching it. If it doesn’t flee or curl up into a ball, it may be sick.
Other indicators include an unstable walk, green sticky faecal matter, and a large number of flies, maggots or ticks on or near its body.
If you come across a baby hedgehog (known as a hoglet), carry out the same checks. Be sure to inspect the surrounding area, as hoglets typically come in litters of four or five and all may require assistance.
If you’re uncertain whether they are ill or injured, observe from a distance to see if their mother returns – this could take a few hours, reports the Express.
Only step in if the little ones are in immediate danger, or if their mum is clearly no longer alive.
Other red flags include weighing less than 300g (roughly the size of an apple) without a grown-up nearby, or squeaking with their eyes shut.
Signs of an unwell hedgehog
- Spotted in broad daylight
- Doesn’t run if approached
- Doesn’t curl up into a ball if approached
- Wobbly walk
- Green, sticky mucus-like poop
- Flies, maggots or ticks around its body
- Less than the size of an apple without an adult nearby
- Squeaking with their eyes shut
If you’re certain the hedgehog requires assistance, then you can take them to the vet or get in touch with your local wildlife centre. If you decide to take them for medical help, ensure you have the proper equipment.
What you need
- A box with breathing holes
- A thick towel for the bottom of the box
- Gardening gloves – or thin latex gloves and a secondary towel for your hands.
What to do
- Put a towel at the bottom of the box and then, wearing gloves or wrapping the second towel over your hands, approach the hedgehog slowly and carefully.
- Gently pick them up, making sure you support all its weight in both your hands. Hoglets from the same litter can be kept in the same box, as long as its big enough.
- Gather the animal and as much of its nesting material as possible and gently place it in the box on the towel.
- Secure the lid and wash your hands thoroughly, then put the box somewhere warm and quiet while you call the vet and let them know you’re coming.
- Get the hedgehog expert medical attention as soon as you can.
Never, ever handle hedgehogs without gloves and avoid touching them more than necessary – human contact can be extremely stressful for them and it may exacerbate their condition. They can also carry ringworm and salmonella which can make you ill.