You probably don’t think about your hedgehog carrying salmonella, but some recent outbreaks have been traced back to hedgehogs. Here’s what you need to know about your hedgehog and salmonella.

Salmonella can be carried by animals like hedgehogs because it doesn’t always negatively affect their health. In humans, salmonella can cause diarrhea, severe abdominal cramping, fever, and headaches.

The easiest way to prevent yourself from getting salmonella is to wash your hands after you’ve come in contact with your hedgehog. This also includes after you’ve cleaned his cage.

Fortunately, not all hedgehogs carry salmonella. When choosing a new hedgehog, make sure you choose one that looks and acts healthy. Avoid adopting any hedgehog that has been in a cage with an ill hedgehog.

If you want to know if your hedgehog carries salmonella, schedule an appointment with your vet Grand Prairie.