What should I do if a hedgehog is bitten by a tick? - briefly
Remove the tick with fine tweezers, grasping it close to the skin and pulling straight out, then clean the area and observe the hedgehog for signs of infection, seeking veterinary advice if any symptoms appear.
What should I do if a hedgehog is bitten by a tick? - in detail
If a hedgehog has a tick attached, act promptly to prevent disease transmission.
- Secure the animal – place the hedgehog in a calm, well‑ventilated container. Keep it warm but not overheated.
- Identify the tick – look for a small, dark, rounded parasite at the base of spines or between the skin folds. Note its size and location.
- Remove the tick – use fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool:
- Disinfect the bite site – cleanse the area with diluted povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine solution. Apply a thin layer of a pet‑safe antiseptic ointment if available.
- Preserve the tick – place it in a sealed container with a small amount of alcohol for identification and possible testing.
- Monitor the hedgehog – observe daily for:
- Redness, swelling, or discharge at the wound.
- Lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, or abnormal behavior.
- Signs of tick‑borne illness such as anemia or neurological symptoms.
- Consult a veterinarian – if any abnormal signs appear, or if the tick was attached for more than 24 hours, seek professional care. The vet may prescribe antibiotics, antiparasitic medication, or supportive therapy.
- Prevent future infestations – regularly inspect the hedgehog’s hide, keep its enclosure clean, and consider a monthly ectoparasite preventive product approved for hedgehogs.
Immediate removal, proper wound care, and vigilant observation are essential to safeguard the animal’s health.