HEATSTROKE AND DEHYDRATION If they are laying on their sides then it is very serious. Often seen in the summer months but also dehydration can be a problem in the winter months.
Particularly in the summer, dehydration and flystrike are a severe and common problem for hedgehogs. Especially if they are out in the sun. If a hedgehog is ever collapsed, on its side and floppy, possibly breathing with its mouth open – please take them to a vet immediately.
Hedgehog Lying Flat.
A hedgehog lying flat who is cold and still is much more likely to be dead. More likely, but not definitely. Hedgehogs who overheat lie flat and press their bellies to the ground, which is usually a cooling surface. If this doesn't work, they go into a state called aestivation.
While hedgehogs in the wild are used to experiencing temperature fluctuations, pet hedgehogs in captivity do not tolerate temperature changes as well. A hedgehog that is too hot will lay flat on its tummy with all four legs stretched out in sort of a “splat” or “sploot” and will probably be taking quick, short breaths.
“In general, any time your hedgehog is less active, not eating well, or you notice more specific signs like coughing, sneezing, trouble breathing, abnormal urine or feces, etc., a vet visit is warranted,” she says.
A hedgehog seen out in the day is uncommon. Seeing one out in daylight could be a key indicator that the hedgehog is sick and in need of your help, especially if it is during winter time when most hedgehogs should be hibernating. Sick hedgehogs could be thin, dehydrated, possibly poisoned or have breathing problems.
Signs of stress
The stressed hedgehog may also twitch or shake its head nervously. It is almost as if the hedgehog is saying “Sensory overload. I can't take it anymore.” The hedgehog might give you a warning bite if the first two signs are overlooked.
A hedgehog's go-to vocal is huffing and puffing, but he's not trying to blow the house down. This sniffing is a normal vocalization he makes while going about his business of exploring. An unhappy hedgehog, on the other hand, will show his disdain with a hiss or a clicking sound.
In short, splooting is a type of stretch that involves kicking one or both legs behind the body. The one leg sploot involves one leg behind while the other leg remains tucked underneath. This may look familiar to dog owners, however splooting is not an exclusively canine behavior. Occasionally, cats can do it too!
Hedgehogs only curl up when cold, hibernating or frightened. They sleep in the same positions as dogs; on their side or tummy, and dream just like them too.
Aside from health issues, one reason a hedgehog might stop running is if they are overweight. It's more difficult to run with added weight. And some hedgies will give up their night-time jogging routine. It's also possible for a hedgehog to stop running out of boredom.
A well-socialized hedgehog is friendly and welcomes interaction from her owner. If your happy-go-lucky pet turns into a growling bundle of huffiness overnight and refuses to uncurl, something may be wrong. Constant hissing or grumbling are also signs she could be in pain or distressed.
It is initially most evident by the "wobble" the hedgehog has when it tries to stand still. It gradually progresses from the hind end and starts to affect the front of the body leading to tetraplegia or quadriplegia (partial or total loss of use of all limbs and torso).
The quills tend to lay down flat along the back and sides of the hedgehog, all pointing towards their rear end, so as long as you don't push against the sharp tips of the quills (pet them backwards) they pose no problems or chance of being poked.
Talking to your hedgehog while holding, snuggling, bathing, and other enjoyable activities will help your hedgehog associate the sound of your voice with comfort and enjoyment. Over the years we have found the radio and music very soothing for a variety of different animals.
Long-term elevated stress levels, as in humans, can have serious physiological consequences for hedgehogs. The higher level of stress shows that being handled and placed in captivity can cause long-term stress in the animals. This highlights the importance of periods of captivity being as short as possible.
Every hedgehog has a unique personality, but most aren't interested in human affection. Caretakers note that it takes a lot of time and effort to get a hedgehog to tolerate being held. Like porcupines, hedgehogs have sharp, prickly quills that they use to fend off predators.
– You should handle it for at least 30 minutes daily to ensure enough socialization and bonding with you. – If your hedgehog begins to become aggressive, shaking, starts biting you, or you notice green poop, this is a sign that he's becoming stressed and had too much handling that day.
Keller says, “With appropriate care and keeping, your hedgehog will live about five years, and some even live longer than eight years.” If you have any questions about hedgehogs, contact your local veterinarian.
Annointing. If an African Pygmy Hedgehog comes across a new taste or pungent smell it may trigger an odd behaviour known as annointing. This is where they froth at the mouth and then lick this frothy saliva all across their back.
I have disturbed a hedgehog, what should I do? If the hedgehog is hibernating, gently replace the animal into the space, re-cover with old nest material and leave alone. If this is not possible then place the hedgehog in a large box or in a part of the garden the hedgehog will be safe and sheltered.