Pododermatitis in rabbits | PetMD

What is pododermatitis in rabbits?

Pododermatitis in rabbits is inflammation of the feet caused by pressure, friction or moisture in the thin skin on the soles of the feet.

This is a fairly common condition in rabbits of all ages and genders, so it's essential to know what signs to watch out for and what steps you can take to avoid it.

Unlike cats, dogs and humans, rabbits do not have foot pads or thick musculature on their feet and lower hocks and ankles. They have very thick fur over thin skin to protect and cushion the feet. If this fur is compromised or lost, excessive pressure on the underlying skin can become inflamed.

Without intervention, continued pressure and friction can cause ulcers and infections and lead to tissue death (necrosis).

Pododermatitis is commonly called ulcerative pododermatitis because it often causes tiny, superficial ulcers. Sore hocks are another common term for this condition. Bumblefoot is more commonly used in birds but can also refer to rabbits.

Certain breeds of rabbits are more likely to develop pododermatitis, such as short-haired Rex breeds (short hair) or large giant breed rabbits (increased pressure and weight on the legs). Rabbits that frequently kick their hind legs may also be at higher risk.

Symptoms of pododermatitis in rabbits

Early symptoms of pododermatitis in rabbits include:

• Loss of fur on the soles of the feet and on the hocks
• Red skin on the soles of the feet and on the hocks
• Swelling of the feet
• Pain
• Shallow ulcers or open sores

As the disease progresses, more serious signs may develop:

• Abscess
• Gastrointestinal stasis
• Blood loss and anemia
• Infection and septicemia (blood poisoning by bacteria)
• Osteomyelitis (bone infection)
• Erosion of bones and ligaments
• Rupture of the superficial flexor tendon of the digit, resulting in impaired hamstring or ankle extension
• Permanent disability
• Death

This condition is very painful. Rabbits in pain may:

• Eat less
• Grinding your teeth (bruxism)
• defecate less
• Sit hunched over with your eyes tightly closed
• Hold your ears back and your whiskers tightly against your cheeks

Causes of pododermatitis in rabbits

Pododermatitis in rabbits develops when excessive pressure, trauma or moisture damages the thin skin on the soles of the feet.

Any of the following risk factors may contribute:

• Hard surfaces such as metal cage bottoms or hardwood
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Small cage or lack of exercise
• Large or giant breeds
• Fur loss due to wear or clipping
• Poor diet
• Damp or unsanitary bedding (urinary/fecal soiling)
• Lameness leading to uneven weight distribution
• Paralysis or paresis
• Rex breeds with fine, sparse hair
• Abrasive mats
• Spinal malformations

How Vets Diagnose Pododermatitis in Rabbits

Pododermatitis in rabbits is usually diagnosed by history and physical examination.

For chronic or severe cases, additional diagnostics may include:

• Complete blood count (CBC) to assess anemia and infection

• Chemistry panel to assess organ function and underlying disease

• X-rays to evaluate osteomyelitis or spinal deformities

• Culture and sensitivity testing to identify bacteria and determine appropriate antibiotics

The veterinarian will carefully evaluate gait, stance, limbs and digits during the examination.

Treatment of pododermatitis in rabbits

Treatment of pododermatitis in rabbits aims to eliminate the underlying causes and protect the feet from further damage.

Environmental home improvements may include:

• Thick yoga mat
• Foam Egg Crate Litter
• Towels
• Paper bedding
• Deep peat
• Disposal of wire or concrete floors

Daily cleaning of the cage and keeping the feet clean and dry are essential.

Veterinary treatment may include:

• Systemic antibiotics for infection
• Topical treatments like manuka honey
• Pain medications (analgesics)
• Protective boots or bandage
• Surgery for severe cases requiring skin flap repair

Pododermatitis is often progressive and cannot be completely reversed. In severe chronic cases where pain cannot be managed, euthanasia may be discussed.

Recovery and management of pododermatitis in rabbits

Recovery depends on severity and early intervention.

Under the guidance of a veterinarian, management strategies include:

• Thick, absorbent litter made of straw or hay

• Removal of metal and concrete surfaces

• Weight management

• Protective boots if necessary

Complications may include:

Prevention of pododermatitis in rabbits

Prevention of pododermatitis in rabbits relies on proper breeding and weight management.

• Provide a soft floor

• Clean the cage daily

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Encourage daily exercise (ideally up to 4 hours)

• Use an enclosure at least four times larger than the rabbit

• Allow enough space for jumping and standing

Larger enclosures with attached exercise areas (around 24 square feet) and non-abrasive flooring are ideal.