Wild European hedgehogs face multiple disease challenges that affect individual welfare and population health. Understanding common conditions helps the public provide better support for sick and injured hedgehogs.
Disease is a significant driver of hedgehog welfare problems in the UK. Mange causes intense scratching, hair loss, and skin thickening that, if untreated, is fatal. Lungworm causes progressive respiratory compromise that can be subtle until advanced. Members of the public play a vital role in identifying sick hedgehogs and getting them to wildlife rehabilitators quickly. Early intervention dramatically improves outcomes for treatable conditions. Hedgehogs found out in daylight are almost always in serious trouble and need immediate help.