Epidemiology of neoplasia in captive black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes), 1986-1996.

The epidemiology of neoplastic disease was studied retrospectively in the captive population of black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes). Postmortem reports were reviewed and archived tissues examined from 184 of the 227 adult (>1 yr old) black-footed ferrets that died from the beginning of the current captive propagation program in late 1985 to the end of 1996. A total of 185 neoplasms, of 28 distinct phenotypes, were seen in 102 (55.4%) of these ferrets. There was more than one tumor type present in 51 ferrets. Tumors of the apocrine glands (28.3%), renal tubular neoplasms (20.7%), and biliary cystadenoma or carcinoma (20.1%) were the most common neoplasms. The probability of developing most types of neoplasms increased with age. Neoplasms of the apocrine glands were more common in males and may be hormonally influenced. The unusually high prevalence of biliary cystadenocarcinoma may be secondary to the common occurrence of intrahepatic biliary cysts in this population. Although neoplasia is an important cause of mortality in captive adult black-footed ferrets, its impact on captive propagation of the species, and on the wild population, is probably limited because clinically significant tumors are encountered almost exclusively in postreproductive ferrets (>3 yr old) and because ferrets released into their natural habitat rarely reach susceptible age.     

The scavenging behaviour of ferrets (Mustela furo), feral cats (Felis domesticus), possums (Trichosurus vulpecula), hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) and harrier hawks (Circus approximans) on pastoral farmland in New Zealand: implications for bovine tuberculosis transmission

AIMS: To identify species that scavenge carcasses in pastoral habitats in New Zealand; to determine whether there were interspecific or intraspecific differences in scavenging behaviour and; to document any interspecific or intraspecific interactions occurring at carcasses. METHODS: Scavenging by ferrets (Mustela furo), feral cats (Felis domesticus), possums (Trichosurus vulpecula), hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) and harrier hawks (Circus approximans) was studied from autumn to midwinter on pastoral farmland near Palmerston (45S, 170E), Otago, New Zealand. Time-lapse video recorders and camera lens mounted with infra-red light illumination were used to monitor carcasses of 10 ferrets, 12 possums, 2 hedgehogs and 7 rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) until they were totally scavenged. RESULTS: Ferrets scavenged 5/8 ferret carcasses, 8/9 possum carcasses and 6/7 rabbit carcasses encountered. Feral cats scavenged 3/8 ferret carcasses, 5/7 rabbit carcasses, and 3/8 possum carcasses encountered. Possums scavenged 1/2 ferret carcasses and 3/4 rabbit carcasses encountered. The proportion of encounters resulting in feeding on ferret carcasses differed between ferrets (45.7%) and possums (6.3%), and between possums and cats (29.7%). Similarly, for possum carcasses, differences were found between ferrets (76.6%) and possums (0%), ferrets and cats (60.6%) and possums and cats. No interspecific differences were found in the proportion of encounters that resulted in feeding on rabbit carcasses between ferrets (85.2%), possums (75%) and cats (73.1%). In 8/12 instances of ferrets coming into contact with other ferrets whilst feeding, ferrets fed together at the carcass. On 1 occasion, 4 ferrets were recorded feeding together. In 7/8 instances where cats and ferrets came into contact over carrion, ferrets maintained possession or displaced the cat from the carcass. CONCLUSIONS: Communal carrion feeding by ferrets may facilitate intraspecific and interspecific transmission of bovine tuberculosis (caused by Mycobacterium bovis) by the consumption of contaminated carrion, fighting, or close-contact activities. Cannibalism may be one mechanism by which tuberculosis is transmitted within ferret populations. Our results also suggest that possums may acquire infection from carrion, despite being mainly herbivorous.     

Clinical,histopathological, and immunohistochemical studies of histiocytic sarcoma in four-toed hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris): A retrospective study

Histiocytic sarcoma was investigated histopathologically and immunohistochemically in 17 four-toed hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris), along with a review of their clinical data. Cases were histopathologically classified into two types: round-polygonal cell type (6 cases) and spindle cell type (11 cases). Round-polygonal cell type was found in visceral organs such as the spleen, lymph nodes, and more, and most cases of this type were consistent with disseminated histiocytic sarcoma. On the other hand, spindle cell type occurred mainly in skin, and almost all cases were consistent with localized histiocytic sarcoma. The prognosis of patients with round-polygonal cell type appeared worse than that of spindle cell type. Immunohistochemically, neoplastic cells of spindle cell type showed stronger reactivity against human leukocyte antigen-DR than round-polygonal cell type. Neoplastic cells of all cases showed strong reactivity against ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule-1 (Iba-1) and various reactivities against cluster of differentiation (CD) 204. Regardless of morphological classification, most tumor cells were negative for CD163, suggesting that this marker is less effective for the diagnosis of histiocytic sarcoma. The results of this study suggest that Iba-1 is the most effective marker for histiocytic sarcoma.     

Renal tubular-cell neoplasms in black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes)--38 cases

Thirty-eight cases of renal tubular cell neoplasms were diagnosed in 184 captive, adult (>1-year-old), black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes) examined from 1985 to 1996. This prevalence (20.7%) is one of the highest reported for this neoplasm in a population of animals. These tumors rarely metastasized (1/38), and usually were incidental postmortem findings, associated clinical disease being present in only 3 (8%) of the 38 cases. The prevalence of renal tubular cell neoplasms found at postmortem examination increased linearly with age, up to 67% in ferrets >8 years old. Both males (prevalence = 19%) and females (prevalence = 24%) were affected. Multiple renal tumors were common, and seven ferrets (18.4% of affected animals) had bilateral tumors. The cause of this neoplastic syndrome could not be determined. Since most of the animals affected by this condition were in their postreproductive years of life, the impact of this neoplastic syndrome on the captive propagation of this species is negligible.     

Cutaneous papilloma and multicentric squamous cell carcinoma in four-toed hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris)

Skin lesions possibly caused by Papillomavirus infections in two four-toed hedgehogs are described. In case 1, there was a papillary mass on the right hind limb. Histologically, the mass was consistent with a viral papilloma. In the other case, multifocal papillary masses with erosions and ulcers were found throughout the body, mainly on the extremities. Histology showed continuative lesions composed of acanthosis, Bowenoid in situ carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, with abrupt transitions between the lesions. In both cases, keratinocytes in the granular layer infrequently had features of koilocytes and intranuclear inclusion bodies, and immunohistochemical staining was positive for anti-human papillomavirus antibody. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first pathological documentation of possibly papillomavirus-associated skin lesions in four-toed hedgehogs.     

Necropsy and histopathologic findings in 14 African hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris): a retrospective study.

From fiscal years 1992 through 1996, 14 African hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) cases were submitted to the Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory at Purdue University. The most common diagnoses were splenic extramedullary hematopoiesis (91%), hepatic lipidosis (50%), renal disease (50%), and neoplastic disease (29%). Other less frequent necropsy findings were myocarditis (21%), colitis (14%), bacterial septicemia (14%), and pneumonia (14%). The data indicate that splenic extramedullary hematopoiesis, hepatic lipidosis, renal disease, and neoplasms are frequent postmortem findings in hedgehogs.     

Prospective survey of neoplastic and non-neoplastic uterine disorders in 116 domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

BackgroundEarlier studies indicate that the risk for uterine tumours in rabbits may be as high as 60–80%. This high occurrence and the need for routine neutering of non-breeding pet rabbits have recently been in the spotlight.MethodsThis study aimed to describe and compare macroscopic and histopathological alterations in uteri collected from domestic rabbits of various ages that were neutered, deceased, or euthanized without a suspected uterine disorder (NoUD; n = 94) and from rabbits with a suspected uterine disorder (UD; n = 22).ResultsIn the NoUD group, uteri of 41 rabbits (44%) displayed histopathological findings and 12 rabbits (13%) had neoplasms. Samples from thirteen rabbits (14%) evinced histopathological findings with no macroscopic alterations. The most frequent diagnoses were cystic endometrial hyperplasia (26% of the 41 uteri), adenocarcinoma (9%), and polyps (5%). In the UD group, uteri from 21 (95%) out of 22 rabbits exhibited pathological alterations; in 2 (10%) of these, the changes (cystic endometrial hyperplasias) were seen only in histology. The most frequent diagnoses in the uteri of the UD group were cystic endometrial hyperplasia (77%) and adenocarcinoma (54%). Uterine malignant neoplasia affected 40% of all rabbits aged over 3 years, and the odds of a malignant uterine tumour in these rabbits were approximately 19-fold higher than in rabbits aged under 3 years.Conclusions and clinical relevanceUterine disorders are common in domestic rabbits, even without a suspected uterine disease, and the risk of uterine neoplasia markedly increases after 3 years of age. A macroscopically normal uterus may have pathological changes and ovariohysterectomy should be therefore preferred over ovariectomy at least in older rabbits.     

Cytochrome b5 expression in gonadectomy-induced adrenocortical neoplasms of the domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo)

Whereas the adrenal glands of healthy ferrets produce only limited amounts of androgenic steroids, adrenocortical neoplasms that arise in neutered ferrets typically secrete androgens or their derivative, estrogen. The 17,20-lyase activity of cytochrome P450 17alpha-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase (P450c17) must increase to permit androgen biosynthesis in neoplastic adrenal tissue. We screened ferret adrenocortical tumor specimens for expression of cytochrome b(5) (cyt b(5)), an allosteric regulator that selectively enhances the 17,20-lyase activity of P450c17. Cyt b(5) immunoreactivity was evident in 24 of 25 (96%) adrenocortical adenomas/carcinomas from ferrets with signs of ectopic sex steroid production. Normal adrenocortical cells lacked cyt b(5), which may account for the low production of adrenal androgens in healthy ferrets. Other markers characteristic of gonadal somatic cells, such as luteinizing hormone receptor, aromatase, and GATA4, were coexpressed with cyt b(5) in some of the tumors. We concluded that cyt b(5) is upregulated during gonadectomy-induced adrenocortical neoplasia and is a marker of androgen synthetic potential in these tumors.     

Species of flea (siphonaptera) infesting pets and hedgehogs in Germany

The species of flea infesting pets and hedgehogs in Germany were investigated through a survey of small animal practitioners throughout the country who were asked to collect specimens at their veterinary practices. A total of 625 veterinarians/veterinary practices responded and provided 2445 intact anti identifiable flea specimens. These fleas originated from 294 dogs (795 fleas), 334 cats (1152 fleas), 76 hedgehogs (481 fleas), five domestic rabbits (10 fleas), one golden hamster (four fleas) and one ferret (three fleas). Dogs were found to be infested with Archaeopsylla erinacei, Chaetopsylla globiceps, Ctenocephalides canis, Ctenocephalides felis, Hystrichopsylla talpae, Nosopsyllus fasciatus, Paraceras melis and Pulex irritans. From cats, Archaeopsylla erinacei, Ceratophyllus gallinae, Ceratophyllus garei, Ctenocephalides felis, Ctenophthalmus assimilis, Hystrichopsylla talpae, Monopsyllus sciurorum, Nosopsyllus fasciatus, Spilopsyllus cuniculi and Typhloceras poppei were collected. In both dogs and cats the most prevalent species were Ctenocephalides felis (78.9% and 91.6%, respectively) and Archaeopsylla erinacei (21.1% and 12.6%, respectively) followed by Ctenocephalides canis in dogs (5.8%) and Hystrichopsylla talpae in cats (1.2%). The fleas isolated from rabbits were Ctenocephalides felis, Hystrichopsylla talpae and Spilopsyllus cuniculi. Nosopsyllus fasciatus and Ctenocephalides felis were recovered from the golden hamster and the ferret, respectively. The hedgehogs were found to be infested with Archaeopsylla erinacei, Ceratophyllus gallinae and Ctenocephalides felis.     

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis infection in wildlife on three deer farms with a history of Johne's disease

Abstract

AIM: To determine the prevalence of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (Map) infection in wildlife, in pastoral landscapes with a recent history of clinical Johne's disease in livestock.

METHODS: A total of 449 wild mammals and birds from three farms in the South Island of New Zealand with recent histories of clinical Johne's disease in their deer herds were trapped and examined for gross pathological changes in the gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, individual mesenteric lymph nodes from 380 mammals, and segments of gastrointestinal tract from 32 birds were excised, homogenised and cultured for viable Map bacilli. The prevalence of Map infection was then calculated for the various species. Faecal samples from those mammals which had culture-positive tissues were further cultured for the presence of Map.

RESULTS: Gross pathological changes were identified in the gastrointestinal tract of four brushtail possums, one cat, six ferrets, 12 hares, six hedgehogs, three rabbits, one stoat, and one paradise shelduck. Infection with Map in the gastrointestinal tract was confirmed in only three of these cases, one each of brushtail possums, hares and hedgehogs. In contrast, Map infection in the absence of gross pathological changes was frequently recorded in enteric tract tissues of mammals and birds. Among mammals, Map infection was recorded in 18/73 (25%) brushtail possums, 4/23 (17%) cats, 15/42 (36%) hedgehogs and 29/113 (26%) rabbits. Among birds, intestinal tract tissue Map infection was recorded in 3/17 (18%) paradise shelducks. Among 64 of the 74 mammals which had Map culture-positive tissues, 38% (n=5) of hedgehogs and 11% (n=3) of rabbits also had culture-positive faecal samples.

CONCLUSIONS: This study is the first to identify that Map infection can be prevalent in wildlife in New Zealand. There was a high prevalence of Map infection among both scavenging and grazing wild animals. Both mammals and birds are capable of harbouring viable Map organisms in their gastrointestinal tract; further, viable Map was excreted into the environment via faeces by hedgehogs and rabbits.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Previous studies overseas have postulated a role of wildlife as reservoirs of Map infection and possible vectors of Johne's disease to livestock. Here, brushtail possums, hedgehogs and rabbits and in particular were identified as potential wildlife hosts for Map infection in NewZealand. This suggests that several wildlife species could contribute to the persistence of Map infection within a wildlife/livestock complex, and potentially, perhaps more importantly, to the spread of infection between farms.     

Histological and immunohistochemical features of cutaneous mast cell tumor in six captive four-toed hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris)

This report described the histopathological and immunohistochemical features of cutaneous mast cell tumor (MCT) in six hedgehogs. The hedgehogs presented single cutaneous mass with ulcer and crusting. Histologically, the neoplastic lesions were characterized by the proliferation of well-differentiated mast cells (3 cases), and atypical mast cells (3 cases) with one atypical histiocytic morphology. Immunohistochemically, tumor cells were positive for KIT and mast cell tryptase, and were negative for Iba-1. In well-differentiated MCT, all patients were clinically improved and survived more than 365 days after surgical excision, whereas an atypical histiocytic MCT showed aggressive behavior with re-recurrence, and the animal died 115 days after surgery. These findings suggest that, compatible with other animals, well-differentiated MCT has a better prognosis in hedgehogs.     

Survey of Zoonotic Dermatoses in Client‐Owned Exotic Pet Mammals in Southern Italy

Several ‘exotic’ mammalian species (e.g. rabbits, rodents, ferrets and hedgehogs) live in close proximity to humans as companion pets. Skin diseases (SD) are frequent causes of morbidity in exotic pet mammals, and most of those SDs have a zoonotic potential. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequencies and types of zoonotic dermatosis (ZD) in client‐owned, exotic pet mammals in Southern Italy. Six‐hundred and fifty‐five medical records of exotic pet mammals examined between 2011 and 2012, across twenty private practice veterinary clinics around the Naples area (Italy), were retrospectively evaluated and screened for animals diagnosed with SDs (rabbits n = 455, guinea pigs n = 93, ferrets n = 64, hedgehogs n = 19, chinchillas n = 13 and rats n = 11). The records of animals diagnosed with SD, whose causative agents had a zoonotic potential, were selected for analysis. The Mann–Whitney independent test was used for statistical analysis. A P value ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Eighty‐two records (12.5%) of animals with ZD were identified. Of those, 56.1% (46/82) were affected by fungal infections and 42.7% (35/82) by parasitic infections. No zoonotic bacterial or viral infections were diagnosed. Dermatophytosis was significantly diagnosed more frequently in younger animals. The results of this survey indicate that exotic pet mammals may serve as active carriers for many highly contagious pathogens with zoonotic potential. Awareness and vigilance by the veterinary practitioner is crucial in the prevention of occurrences of ZDs. Children frequently come in close contact with exotic pets. To prevent the unplanned transmission of pathogen from pet to human, an active routine screening examination and preventative treatments are strongly recommended for every newly purchased pet mammal.     

Canine ovarian neoplasms: a clinicopathologic study of 71 cases, including histology of 12 granulosa cell tumors

In a retrospective study of 71 primary ovarian tumors in the dog, epithelial tumors (46%) were more common than sex cord stromal (34%) and germ cell tumors (20%). There were more adenocarcinomas (64%) than adenomas. Sex cord stromal tumors were equally divided into Sertoli-Leydig (12/24) and granulosa cell tumors (12/24). There were equal numbers (7/14) of dysgerminomas and teratomas among the germ cell tumors. Most teratomas (6/7) were malignant. Most granulosa cell tumors were solid; two were mostly cystic. Patterns included sheets of round and ovoid to spindle-shaped cells separated by thin, fibrovascular stroma; neoplastic cells formed rosettes or Call-Exner bodies. In some areas, neoplastic cells were in cords or columns and formed cyst-like structures. Four granulosa cell tumors were macrofollicular, having cysts lined with granulosa cells. Median ages of dogs with different ovarian neoplasms were similar; all were more than 10 years old, except the dogs with teratoma (mean age, 4 years). Most neoplasms were unilateral (84%), except the Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors, many of which were bilateral (36%). Size of ovarian neoplasms varied (2 cm3 to 15,000 cm3). Twenty-nine percent of neoplasms metastasized; adenocarcinomas (48%) and malignant teratomas (50%) had the highest rates, and distant metastasis was more common in malignant teratoma. Endometrial hyperplasia was in 67% of the dogs; it was most common in dogs with sex cord stromal tumors (95%). Uterine malignancy was not seen in dogs with granulosa cell tumors, although hyperplasia endometrium was in all dogs with this tumor. Cysts in the contralateral ovaries were most common in dogs with sex cord stromal tumors.     

Postanesthetic effects of two durations of isoflurane anesthesia in African pygmy hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris)

Background: African pygmy hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris) are popular companion animals that require chemical immobilization to facilitate examination. The objective of this study was to evaluate effects of isoflurane anesthetic duration on recovery time, food intake, and body weight following anesthesia in African pygmy hedgehogs. Methods: Eight healthy, adult hedgehogs (4 male, 4 female) were used in this randomized, blinded, complete cross-over study. Two different isoflurane anesthetic durations of 15 minutes (ISO15) and 45 minutes (ISO45) were evaluated with a 2-week wash-out period between treatments. Physiologic parameters, reflexes, and behaviors were monitored to assess anesthesia quality. Food intake (grams of food per kg of body weight) and body weight were measured both before and after anesthesia to assess postsedation effects. Result: There was no statistically significant difference in body weight between or within treatments following the anesthetic events. A decrease in postanesthetic food intake from baseline values was noted with both treatments (ISO15: −16% [−40% to 167%]); (ISO45: −13% [−38% to 43%]), but these fluctuations were not statistically significant between or within treatments. The total amount of food consumed per hedgehog over the 6 days following anesthesia was 99 ± 23 g/kg (ISO15) and 108 ± 28 g/kg (ISO45, P = 0.15). Conclusions and clinical relevance: Differences in duration of isoflurane anesthesia of either 15 or 45 minutes does not have a clinically relevant effect on recovery time or postanesthetic food intake in hedgehogs.     

Fecal microbiota and antibiotic resistance in ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) from two captive breeding facilities in Italy

The microbiota of the intestinal tract plays important roles in the overall health, productivity and well-being of the animals. We have characterized the intestinal microbiota of the ferret because its human cohabitation may increase the possibility of new zoonosis. The presence of anaerobic and microaerophilic bacteria has been evaluated in fresh fecal specimens of 40 ferrets in apparently good health. The bacteria most frequently isolated were Clostridium acetobutylicum (25/40 samples, 62.5%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 45.81–76.83%) and Helicobacter spp. (16/40 samples, 40.0%; 95% CI: 25.28–56.61%), as anaerobic and microaerophilic bacteria, respectively. The Kirby–Bauer disc-diffusion method showed penicillin, streptomycin and vancomycin resistances in high percentages (>80%) of the bacterial isolates, both in anaerobic and microaerophilic groups. Furthermore, the microaerophilic-bacteria group exhibited a significantly higher antibiotic-resistance profile compared to that of anaerobic-bacteria group. The presence of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms in the microbiota of the ferret gastrointestinal tract is a great concern for public health.     

The prevalence of bovine tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis) infections in feral populations of cats (Felis catus), ferrets (Mustela furo) and stoats (Mustela erminea) in Otago and Southland, New Zealand

Twenty-one properties in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand were surveyed for the presence of gross lesions due to Mycobacterium bovis infection in feral cats (Felis catus), ferrets (Mustela furo) and stoats (Mustela erminea) during 1993 and 1994. In total, 1293 cats, ferrets, stoats and weasels (Mustela nivalis) were examined for the presence of tuberculous lesions. The properties surveyed were selected according to the history and incidence of bovine tuberculosis infection in their cattle herds. Sixteen infected cattle properties were trapped in areas of Otago that were endemic for bovine tuberculosis and five properties were trapped in non-endemic areas that were considered to be free from tuberculosis infection in the cattle. No tuberculous cats, ferrets, stoats or weasels were found in non-endemic areas, and prevalence rates in the endemic areas were 0.9% for cats (n=215, 0.12相似文献   

Evaluation of supraglottic airway device use during inhalation anesthesia in healthy African pygmy hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris)

ObjectiveTo evaluate a supraglottic airway device (SGAD) designed for rabbits in African pygmy hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris) during inhalation anesthesia.Study designProspective, randomized, blinded experimental study.AnimalsA total of 12 adult African pygmy hedgehogs (seven male, five female).MethodsHedgehogs were placed in a chamber and anesthesia was induced using isoflurane in oxygen. Oropharyngeal endoscopy was performed and video recorded. The SGAD (v-gel R1) was inserted and connected to a Mapleson D circuit. Capnography, pulse oximetry and physiologic variables were measured during anesthesia, and lung inflation was tested at 10 and 20 cmH₂O. With the SGAD temporarily disconnected, anesthetized hedgehogs were randomly positioned into right and left lateral, dorsal and sternal recumbency to evaluate the effect of a change in body position on SGAD placement. Oropharyngeal endoscopy was repeated at the end of anesthesia, and recovery time was recorded. Pre- and post-SGAD placement endoscopy videos were retrospectively reviewed and scored for gross trauma.ResultsThe median [interquartile range (IQR)] time to successful SGAD placement was 38 (16–68) seconds. The time to SGAD placement decreased as the study progressed. SGAD required repositioning in six hedgehogs, median 2.5 (IQR, 1–3.5) adjustments each, to successfully perform lung inflation or maintain capnography readings. Lung inflation at 10 cmH₂O was successfully performed without leakage in nine animals, and in the other three animals after adjusting the SGAD at 1–2 time points. Inflation at 20 cmH₂O was rarely achieved without an air leak. Changes in heart and respiratory rates during anesthesia were not clinically relevant. Median endoscopic scores were 0 (no lesions) for both pre-and postplacement.Conclusions and clinical relevanceThe SGAD was relatively quickly and easily placed, permitted lung inflation and caused no significant oropharyngeal damage. The SGAD is a practical option for airway management in African pygmy hedgehogs.     

Subcutaneous tiletamine-zolazepam immobilization and effect of flumazenil reversal in African pygmy hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris)

African pygmy hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris) are popular zoological companion animals that routinely require chemical immobilization for veterinary care. The objective of this randomized, blinded, cross-over study was to evaluate the efficacy of low and high dosages of subcutaneous (SC) tiletamine-zolazepam for sedation and the efficacy of flumazenil for recovery in African pygmy hedgehogs. Twelve adult hedgehogs (7 males, 5 females) were administered tiletamine-zolazepam at 10 mg/kg (T10) or 30 mg/kg (T30) SC. Physiologic variables, reflexes and behaviors were monitored to evaluate quality of immobilization. Forty-five minutes after tiletamine-zolazepam injection, hedgehogs were administered flumazenil or an equivalent volume of saline SC. Baseline daily food intake was measured and then recorded daily for 6 days following sedation trials. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) time to onset of first effects for T10 and T30 was 2.9 minutes (2.5–5.3 minutes) and 2 minutes (1.4–2.9 minutes), respectively. Eighty-three percent of T10 and 100% of T30 hedgehogs lost righting reflex. The median (IQR) duration righting reflex was lost for T10 was 32.5 minutes (23.8–37.5 minutes) and it was lost for 47.5 minutes (36.25–63.75 minutes) for T30. Jaw tone was reduced in the majority of animals for both dosages but never lost. Heart and respiratory rate for both treatments remained within normal limits. Hedgehogs became rapidly hypothermic after induction. Flumazenil administration did not have a statistically significant effect on recovery time, but mean recovery times were 18 minutes faster for T10 hedgehogs administered flumazenil. There were no statistically significant differences in food intake within or between dosages of tiletamine-zolazepam at any time point for hedgehogs administered saline or flumazenil; however, mean food intake over the 6 days following T10 administration was 16 g/kg more for hedgehogs administered flumazenil. SC tiletamine-zolazepam at 10 and 30 mg/kg produces dose-dependent heavy sedation to light anesthesia in hedgehogs. Subjectively, while both dosages provided a sufficient depth of immobilization to permit a physical examination and noninvasive procedures like blood collection or diagnostic imaging, some jaw tone was maintained precluding endotracheal intubation. T30 provided a deeper level of immobilization than T10 but longer recovery times. Flumazenil administration did not have a statistically significant effect on recovery but recovery times were noticeably faster following SC flumazenil in hedgehogs sedated with T10. For hedgehogs immobilized with T10, mean food intake was greater when flumazenil was administered. Tiletamine-zolazepam provides an injectable option for immobilization of hedgehogs.