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WHS vs. IVD

5K views 9 replies 9 participants last post by  nikki 
#1 ·
Hey guys,

Today my hedgehog started dragging her hind legs and not putting much pressure on them. I immediately took her to the vet. I just knew it would be Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome. HOWEVER, my vet (who is absolutely amazing) diagnosed her with Intervertebral Disc Disease. She said it is similar to WHS but it IS treatable. One major sign that my vet noted was that my hedgehog could make a tight ball. She said that immediately ruled out WHS. I am starting her on a regimen of steroid treatments twice daily. I am hoping this helps cure her. My vet said it could cure her or it could just help make her quality of life better. I just wanted to get this out there in case anyone is dealing with these types of symptoms. This is a rare disease in hedgehogs; it is more common in dogs. It may be something to discuss with your vet because treatment is available for this disease. Good luck guys.
 
#3 ·
Thank you for posting about this. Too often people and even vets diagnose WHS without pursuing other possibilities. Many people jump to the conclusion that any mobility issues in a hedgehog is WHS.

Sending well wishes for your little girl that she will have a full recovery. :)
 
#4 ·
Thanks for the responses. Unfortunately my baby girl passed away today in my hands. I don't know what was wrong with her exactly. She wouldn't eat or drink nor poop or pee. Not to mention her back legs not functioning. I'm just happy she's now pain free and in a better place. I miss her so much.
 
#7 ·
I'm so sorry about your baby. I lost my Hazel a few months ago from WHS. We tried steroid treatments and antibiotics to rule out possible inner ear infection and IVD but unfortunately they did no good. I had to have her euthanized because she was not eating or pooping or moving on her own. It was heartbreaking. I'm so sorry
 
#9 · (Edited)
Hello, I really hope this thread is still active. I just got back from the vet, and he said that my hedgehog has spondilosis deformans and partial calcification of lumbal disks, with sclerotic vertebrae. (he is 9 months old)

The vet said that he suspects of wobly syndrome, but since I read this, I wanted to know could it possible be IVDD (because he can roll in a ball) and what is the treatment for that?
 
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