Wobbly hedgehog syndrome

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS) is a disease found in hedgehogs that is closely related to multiple sclerosis (MS). The disease is prominent in the domesticated hedgehog.

[edit] Symptoms and treatment

As with MS, WHS slowly degrades the hedgehog's muscle control. This first appears as a wobble while the hedgehog is attempting to stand still. Over time, the hedgehog will lose control of all muscles from the rear of its body to the front.

There is no known cure for WHS. Common treatments for MS have shown similar effects in hedgehogs as they do in humans. This includes a diet high in vitamin E. The vitamin E hides the effects of WHS (and MS), but does not slow the disease. A resistance to vitamin E will form and the effects of the disease will continue.

The cause of WHS (and MS) is unknown.

[edit] External links

• WHS (2005). Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome Research Project. WHS Research Project. Retrieved on 2006-05-03.
• Laura Roberts (2006). Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome. Animal HELP. Retrieved on 2006-05-03.
• Laura Ledet (1999). Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome In African Pygmy Hedgehogs. Caring for your hedgehog. Retrieved on 2006-05-03.