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Why is my hedgehog losing quills and has dry skin after having babies?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Exotic | Unknown - Exotic | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 8 months old

My 1.5 year old hedgehog is loosing her quills. Her skin was dry but I put oil on her. She doesn't appear to be in pain or agitated. She is her happy self. But she has a lot of bald patches. She had a litter of 6 babies 6 weeks ago and is no longer nursing. Do you know what could be causing this?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 26th, 2017

I would recommend an exam at a veterinarian who sees exotic pets. Quill loss and dry skin can be a sign of mites in these little guys. The vet can check for these mites and to see if the quill loss is excessive/abnormal (some quill loss can be normal but it sounds like you are describing excessive loss) and prescribe medication if needed.

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