‘Balloon Syndrome’ hedgehog released back into wild

A hedgehog who had inflated to twice his natural size has been released back into the wild after being cared for at an RSPCA wildlife centre in Cheshire.

The hedgehog was suffering from a rare condition called subcutaneous emphysema, which is more commonly known as ‘Balloon Syndrome’.

The condition - where air collects under the skin causing the animal to inflate like a balloon - is caused by a traumatic event, like an injury, or underlying infection.

The animal was rescued after a call from a concerned member of the public in June.

RSPCA Inspector Sandra Dransfield said the hedgehog "has been through a lot."

She added: “It was the worst case of Balloon Syndrome I’ve ever seen.”

The hedgehog was taken straight to the RSPCA’s closest wildlife centre - RSPCA Stapeley Grange in Nantwich, Cheshire - where he was cared for.

He was nicknamed Monty, after the Montgolfier brothers who invented the hot air balloon.

Monty was put under general anaesthetic to have the rest of the air released.

Lee Stewart, Manager at RSPCA Stapeley Grange, said: “It is rare that we get hedgehogs with Balloon Syndrome, particularly this severe.

If you see an animal you have concerns about please call the RSPCA's emergency line on 0300 123 9999.