Emergency
What to do
Sick, injured and orphaned hedgehogs are very susceptible to the cold. Staggering is a sign of hypothermia and so is ‘sunbathing’ as they spread themselves out in the sun in an attempt to get some heat into their bodies. If you find a hedgehog in this state they need your help quickly. You will need some gardening gloves to pick them up, and take them inside. Warmth is now a critical factor so place them in a box and lay them on a well-wrapped hot water bottle. Fill the bottle with hot tap water – you should be able to hold your hand comfortably on the bottle when wrapped. It’s really important that the bottle is not allowed to go cold or it will do more harm than good, so change the water frequently. Do not feed them, but place a saucer of water in the box.
Now give us a ring
Wounds typically seen affecting casualty
hedgehogs often provide clues as to their cause:
hedgehogs often provide clues as to their cause:
Hedgehogs hit by cars, attacked by dogs, burned, lacerated or snared can suffer a variety of injuries, they must have medical assistance immediately. Take the animal to your nearest vet unless you know of a carer or wildlife centre within easy reach.
Any local vet should take the animal and treat it under their RCVS Code of Practice.