Hedgehogs
We have including a caresheet on hedgehogs in this section because many people find hedgehogs in trouble and want to help. There are many sanctuaries (including Farplace) that can give specialist care to any injured or orphaned hedgehogs, however, if you need to keep the animal for a while before you can get it to a sanctuary, here is how to best help them.
Warm and Dark
Injured or orphaned hedgehogs will be in shock. The best first aid treatment is a warm (not hot) dark cardboard box. If your hedgehog is moving about, give it a small dish of meat-flavoured cat food. Give water in a tip-proof dish.
Dealing With Injuries
If the hedgehog is injured, you will need to get it to a vet as soon as possible. Cuts often develop fly-strike. This is caused by flies laying their eggs on the wounds, which hatch into maggots. Fly eggs and maggots need removing with tweezers and the wounds washing with salt water.
Need More Help? Call Farplace on 01388 517397 for advice or to bring a hedgehog to us.
Other places you could try: Hedgehog Helpline: 01222 623985
St. Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital Trust: 01844 292292
British Hedgehog Preservation Society: 01584 890287