Fungal infections: what do I do?

Recognizing, treating, and preventing fungal infections in hedgehogs and tenrecs

Fungal infections are relatively common in hedgehogs and tenrecs, especially in environments that are humid, unclean, or stressful. Though not as frequently discussed as mites or bacterial infections, fungal conditions can cause significant discomfort, quill or hair loss, and even long-term health issues if left untreated.

Unlike parasites, fungi are often opportunistic, meaning they take hold when an animal’s immune system is already weakened. Early recognition, accurate diagnosis, and proper treatment are essential to recovery, and to preventing the infection from spreading to other animals or humans.

What causes fungal infections?

Fungal infections in exotic mammals are typically caused by dermatophytes, a group of fungi that feed on keratin in the skin, hair, and nails. The most common culprit is Trichophyton mentagrophytes, though Microsporum species may also occur. These are the same fungi responsible for ringworm, a zoonotic condition (meaning it can be transmitted to humans).

In other cases, yeasts like Candida may cause skin or mucosal infections, particularly in animals with compromised immunity or poor hygiene. Fungi thrive in:

• Warm, humid enclosures
• Poor ventilation
• Soiled bedding or uneaten wet food
• Stressed or malnourished animals
• Overcrowded housing or inadequate cleaning routines

Once established, fungal spores can persist in the environment for weeks, even after symptoms disappear, making containment and cleanliness as important as medical treatment.

How do i recognize a fungal infection?

Fungal infections often look similar to mite infestations or bacterial dermatitis, which makes diagnosis challenging without testing. Signs may include:

• Patchy quill or hair loss, often circular or irregular
• Red, scaly, or crusty skin on the face, ears, limbs, or underside
• Small bumps or open sores that do not heal
• Itching, though usually less intense than with mites
• Thickened skin or dark patches on feet, especially in advanced cases
• Loss of appetite, lethargy, or weight loss in systemic infections

In tenrecs, the signs may be subtler: dry or flaking skin on the back or belly, localized fur loss, or chronic irritation of the feet. Their thinner skin makes them more vulnerable to secondary wounds or infections if not treated early.

If multiple animals in a household or rescue center begin showing similar skin problems, or if humans develop itchy red patches after handling, fungal infection should be considered immediately.

Diagnosis: Getting it right

Because fungal infections can look like other skin issues, testing is important. Your veterinarian may:

• Use a Wood’s lamp (UV light) to detect fluorescence in certain fungal species (though not all show up this way)
• Take a skin scraping or hair sample for microscopic examination
• Send samples for fungal culture, which is the most accurate method (but can take 1–3 weeks)

In practice, treatment is sometimes started based on appearance and response to medication, especially in rescue settings where testing may be limited, but formal confirmation is always preferable when possible.

Treatment: Consistency is key

Fungal infections are stubborn. They require consistent treatment over days or weeks — and stopping early often leads to relapse. Veterinary-recommended treatments may include:

• Topical antifungals, such as miconazole, clotrimazole, or terbinafine creams
• Medicated baths or rinses, especially with chlorhexidine or antifungal shampoos (like ketoconazole-based products)
• Oral antifungal medications, such as itraconazole or griseofulvin, in severe or widespread cases

Never use essential oils, vinegar, or home remedies, these may irritate sensitive skin or be toxic if ingested.

Animals should be housed in a clean, dry, well-ventilated space during treatment. Bedding should be changed daily, and surfaces should be disinfected with antifungal cleaners or diluted bleach solutions (1:10 ratio). In multi-animal households, isolation is recommended until the infection clears completely.

Is it contagious to humans?

Yes, some fungal infections are zoonotic, especially ringworm. Humans handling infected animals may develop itchy, red, ring-shaped rashes on the arms, hands, or torso. Children, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible. If you suspect ringworm:

• Wear disposable gloves during care
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
• Clean surfaces and laundry at high temperatures
• Avoid close skin contact with other pets or people
• Consult a physician if symptoms appear in humans

While the risk is manageable with good hygiene, it should not be underestimated.

Preventing Fungal Infections

Prevention starts with environment and husbandry. To reduce the risk:

• Keep enclosures clean, dry, and well-ventilated
• Avoid excessive humidity (aim for 40–60%, unless the species needs more)
• Remove uneaten wet food quickly
• Use high-quality, dust-free bedding
• Quarantine new or rescued animals for 30 days
• Monitor for early signs of skin issues — even minor flaking may be the first clue
• Disinfect handling tools, brushes, and scales regularly

Stress is a major contributor. Bored, crowded, or poorly nourished animals are more likely to become susceptible to opportunistic infections, including fungi.

Final thoughts

Fungal infections can look frightening, and yes, they can spread, but with timely care, most cases resolve fully. The key is not to panic, but to act with clarity: isolate, clean, treat, and follow through. Don’t stop when symptoms disappear, continue treatment as prescribed, and monitor closely for recurrence.

If in doubt, seek veterinary guidance and prioritize hygiene. A clean enclosure and a calm, well-fed animal are your best defenses against fungal invaders, and the foundation of long-term health.