How to deal with parasites

Identifying, treating, and preventing common external and internal parasites in small exotic mammals

Parasites are among the most common and persistent health challenges faced by hedgehogs and tenrecs in captivity. These small insectivores are prone to a range of both external and internal parasites, some of which cause mild irritation, while others can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Parasites thrive in warm, humid environments, and many are opportunistic, meaning they take advantage of compromised immune systems, stress, poor hygiene, or suboptimal living conditions. Knowing what to look for, how to treat infestations safely, and how to prevent reinfection is essential to maintaining a healthy animal.

Mites: The most common external parasite

In hedgehogs, mites are the number one culprit behind itching, flaking, and spine loss. The most common species is Caparinia tripilis, a microscopic parasite that lives on the skin surface and feeds on oils and dead skin. These mites are highly contagious and can survive in bedding, cages, and even on clothing or handling tools.

The symptoms are usually unmistakable: excessive scratching, spine or quill loss (especially on the back and flanks), dry or flaky skin, and crusting around the ears or eyes. In advanced cases, the animal may become restless, lose weight, and even self-mutilate.

Tenrecs can also get mites, but it’s less common. When they do, the symptoms may include rubbing, hair loss, or irritation along the back or belly. Because their skin is thinner, the irritation may be more subtle or masked by seasonal shedding.

Treatment is usually straightforward but must be done correctly. The safest and most effective treatment is selamectin, a topical antiparasitic sold under brand names like Revolution or Stronghold. It is applied between the shoulders and absorbed through the skin. Most infestations require one to three treatments, spaced 2–4 weeks apart. It is critical to treat the environment as well, replacing bedding, disinfecting cages, and isolating affected animals.

Ivermectin is sometimes used, but it carries a high risk of toxicity in hedgehogs if injected or improperly dosed. It should only be used under strict veterinary supervision.

Mites are not typically visible to the naked eye, and misdiagnosis is common. A vet may perform a skin scraping, though false negatives are common. Often, diagnosis is based on clinical signs and response to treatment. Don’t wait for visible bugs, if the animal is itchy and losing quills, treat promptly and thoroughly.

Fleas, ticks, and lice

While less common in strictly indoor-kept animals, hedgehogs and tenrecs can still pick up fleas or ticks, especially if they’ve been outdoors or come into contact with other pets.

Fleas may be visible as dark specks moving through the fur or found in the bedding. Ticks appear as small, round bumps, usually attached near the ears, face, or limbs. Lice may also affect hedgehogs, causing itching, dryness, and hair loss.

Safe treatments for fleas and lice again include selamectin or imidacloprid (under veterinary guidance). Tick removal should be done manually using a tick tool, with care not to leave the head embedded. Never use dog or cat flea products on exotic mammals, many are toxic to small animals.

Intestinal worms: Hidden threats

Internal parasites are harder to spot but just as harmful. Hedgehogs and tenrecs can suffer from various nematodes (roundworms), cestodes (tapeworms), and protozoa like Coccidia or Giardia.

Most intestinal parasites are acquired from contaminated food, insects, water, or dirty enclosures. Symptoms can include:

• Weight loss despite normal appetite
• Soft or slimy stools
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Visible worms in feces
• Lethargy and bloating
• Dehydration or rectal prolapse in severe cases

A fecal float or smear is required to confirm a diagnosis. Fecal testing should ideally be done once or twice per year, even in apparently healthy animals.

Treatment varies depending on the type of parasite. Common medications include:

• Fenbendazole for roundworms or Giardia
• Toltrazuril or sulfadimethoxine for Coccidia
• Praziquantel for tapeworms

Dosing must be carefully calculated based on weight and species. Self-medicating without guidance is dangerous: always consult a vet familiar with exotics.

Lungworms and respiratory parasites

Lungworms are less common but more serious. They are sometimes transmitted through intermediate hosts like snails or insects. Affected animals may cough, wheeze, breathe rapidly, or become lethargic. In tenrecs, these signs may be misread as torpor or inactivity.

Diagnosis usually requires fecal testing or a tracheal wash. Treatment involves antiparasitics like fenbendazole or ivermectin (topical only), combined with supportive care like warmth, hydration, and sometimes antibiotics if secondary infection is present.

Environmental Treatment and Prevention

Treating the animal is only half the battle. Parasites can survive in bedding, soil, food bowls, toys, and even wooden cage furniture. For a successful outcome, the entire environment must be treated.

That means:

• Replacing all bedding and substrate
• Thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the enclosure
• Washing all cloth items at 60°C or higher
• Using safe cage disinfectants (e.g., F10, diluted bleach, or veterinary-grade cleaners)
• Quarantining new animals for at least 30 days
• Freezing or baking insects if wild-caught (not recommended unless done safely)

Humidity and poor ventilation can increase parasite survival. Proper hygiene, air flow, and temperature control are vital.

Can parasites be transmitted to humans or other pets?

Some parasites, like Sarcoptes mites or Giardia, can potentially be zoonotic, but most are species-specific. That said, good hygiene practices are important. Always wash your hands after handling your animal or cleaning its enclosure, and avoid sharing grooming tools or bedding between pets.

If you or someone in your household has a compromised immune system, it’s wise to discuss parasite control protocols with both your vet and physician.

Final thoughts

Parasites are a part of life, even in the cleanest homes. But infestations don’t have to become crises. With regular observation, routine testing, and careful husbandry, most parasites can be treated quickly and safely.

Don’t wait for things to get worse. If your hedgehog is scratching or your tenrec has diarrhea, take action. Parasite control isn’t just about medication, it’s about understanding the full picture: environment, behavior, stress, and prevention.

Your animal depends on you and with the right care, you can keep the unseen threats under control.