Porcupine quills can penetrate any area of an animal. They have backward-pointing barbs that hold them firmly in place and make them difficult to remove. If not removed promptly, quills can move further into the skin, even becoming buried in the skin. However, if quills are not removed, they can travel through the body and cause injury to internal organs.

Quills are usually embedded in the mouth and front paws. Do not let you Sibe paw at their face. If your Sibe has only a few external (outside the mouth) quills, you may be able to remove them yourself. First restrain your pet, then, using pliers, grab a quill as close to the skin as possible and steadily pull the quill out. Be sure to examine your Sibe's entire body feeling for hidden quills. Since they can range in length from 1/2 inch to 4 inches, they may not all be easily seen. If your Sibe has more than a couple of quills, has quills in the mouth, or one has some broken off under the skin, seek veterinary attention immediately! It is absolutely imperative that all quills be removed.