🩺 What I’ve Learned from Our Vet Visits

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🩺 What I’ve Learned from Our Vet Visits


If you’re new to hedgehogs, one of the most important (and most overlooked) parts of care is finding a good exotic vet. It can feel overwhelming—especially when hedgehogs hide symptoms so well. But vet care is essential, and today I’m sharing what I’ve learned, what I wish I’d known earlier, and a little bit of our story too.

🦔 Not Every Vet is an Exotic Vet


Let’s start here: hedgehogs are not like cats or dogs. Their anatomy, diet, behavior, and medical needs are very specific—and most general vets just aren’t trained to treat them.


I’ve been incredibly lucky. I work in the veterinary industry, and I currently work at a Veterinary Emergency/Specialty clinic that has not one, but two exotic specialists on staff. Having that kind of support literally at my fingertips? I don’t take it for granted.


But I know that’s not the case for everyone, so here’s my first tip:


👉 Find an exotic vet before you need one.

Don’t wait for an emergency. Research ahead of time, read reviews, call and ask if they see hedgehogs, and even schedule a wellness visit to establish care.

🛑 Early Warning Signs: What I Wish I’d Known


This one’s personal.


When Amore started to get sick, it happened so fast. She went downhill before we could fully process it—and before I even realized the signs were serious. We did everything we could, but we had to make the incredibly hard decision to let her go.


I wish I’d known sooner what to watch for. So here are a few early red flags that can indicate something is wrong:

  • 💤 Lethargy (not just sleepy, but not responding to usual routines)

  • 🥣 Not eating or drinking

  • 🦶 Limping or dragging a leg

  • 😴 Sleeping outside their usual hide or acting “off”

  • 💩 Changes in stool or urine

  • 🌡️ Sudden temperature sensitivity or hibernation attempts

  • 🗣️ Unusual sounds—like clicking, wheezing, or labored breathing


If you notice any of these, don’t wait. Hedgehogs are masters at hiding pain, so by the time it’s obvious, it may already be serious.

📝 What I Recommend for Every Hedgehog Owner:

  • Establish care early with a trusted exotic vet

  • Keep a basic hedgehog health log (weight, habits, appetite)

  • Learn basic nail trimming and exam routines at home

  • Have an emergency fund or plan—vet visits can be expensive

  • Trust your instincts—you know when something’s not right

💛 Final Thoughts:


Vet care can be scary. But it’s also empowering. It’s part of loving these little quilled souls—giving them the best chance at a long, healthy, happy life.


Amore taught me that. And I’ll carry that lesson with every hedgehog I care for moving forward.


If you’re feeling nervous or unsure about hedgehog health, you’re not alone. Feel free to reach out or drop questions in the comments—I’m happy to help however I can

For more hedgehog care tips, fun stories, and updates, be sure to check out our website at Setareh Hedgehogs. Don't forget to follow along on Instagram @setarehhedgehogs to see more adorable hedgie moments. We can’t wait to share the quill-filled fun with you!

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