my hedgehog

Question
Hi Laurel, how are you?
I have a question about my hedgehog, i don't find any knowledgeable vet for hedgehogs in my area.

So, i found some quill lost in my hedgie cage, one or two at a time, but not always, i found him scratching himself. i've checked for mites but i found none.

Is it somekind of dry skin problem?

Thank you :)

Answer
Hi, Michelle:

You really need to find a vet, even if you have to travel.  Another option would be to call a vet who identifies him/herself as an exotics vet, and see if they will do a phone consult with one of your local vets. Here is a link to vets in Nevada:
http://www.hedgehogwelfare.org/vets_by_state.asp?s=NV  
If it doesn't work, look up the list at the Hedgehog Welfare Society (HWS) site.

Mites are very difficult to detect with the human eye.  It doesn't help that the most common species is white in color.  A vet can test for them, or look through a microscope.  Also, if your boy really does have mites, they need to be treated ASAP.  Even a non-exotics vet should be able to do something as simple as a skin scrapping. Revolution is usally more effective for hedgies than Ivermectin. The dosage should be available to vets online or in a textbook.  I do not believe you can buy these medications without a prescription.

Itching and quill loss are both typical symptoms of mites.  But if it isn't mites, dry skin is another very likely culprit.  A warm bath and moisturing liquid baby soap is good, perhaps followed by a Vit E rinse.

Please keep me posted if you need more help.

Hedgie Blessings,

Laurel