A large portion of a hedgehog’s body is covered with quills. Quilling occurs when a large number of quills fall off during the shedding period that normally takes place while they are still babies and juveniles. The first quilling occurs when they are about two months of age; during this time they lose their fine baby quills and grow thicker and longer quills.

The second quilling takes place when they are about 4 months old. This second shedding process can be uncomfortable. New quills have to push through the holes of the old quills. Discomfort may occur when larger quills pass through, especially when there are a considerable number of them pushing through the old holes at the same time. Once they become adults, hedgehogs continue to lose quills, however large amount of quills should never be shed off at the same time. 

Keep your pet healthy and active by bringing him regularly to a Beaufort, NC veterinary clinic. Visit this website for more details.