Pododermatitis in Rabbits

What Is Pododermatitis in Rabbits?

Pododermatitis in rabbits is inflammation of the feet caused by pressure, friction, or moisture damage to the thin skin on the bottoms of their feet.

This is a fairly common condition in rabbits at any age or gender, so it is essential to know what signs to watch out for and what measures you can take to prevent it.

Unlike cats, dogs, and humans, rabbits do not have a foot pad or thick musculature on their feet and hock/ankle bottoms. They have very thick fur over thin skin to protect and cushion the feet. If that fur is compromised or lost, excessive pressure on the underlying skin can become inflamed.

Without intervention, continued pressure and friction can cause ulcers and infection and result in tissue death (necrosis).

Pododermatitis is commonly called ulcerative pododermatitis because it often causes tiny surface ulcers. Sore hocks is another common term for the condition. Bumblefoot is more commonly used in birds but may also refer to rabbits.

Some rabbit breeds are more likely to develop pododermatitis, such as short-coated Rex breeds (thin fur) or large giant breed rabbits (increased pressure and weight on feet). Rabbits that frequently thump their back feet may also be at higher risk.

Symptoms of Pododermatitis in Rabbits

Early symptoms of pododermatitis in rabbits include:

• Fur loss on bottoms of feet and hocks
• Red skin on bottoms of feet and hocks
• Swelling of feet
• Pain
• Shallow ulcers or open sores

As the condition progresses, more severe signs may develop:

• Abscesses
• Gastrointestinal stasis
• Blood loss and anemia
• Infection and septicemia (blood poisoning by bacteria)
• Osteomyelitis (bone infection)
• Erosion of bone and ligaments
• Rupture of the superficial digital flexor tendon, leading to impaired extension of the hock or ankle
• Permanent disability
• Death

This condition is very painful. Rabbits in pain may:

• Eat less
• Grind their teeth (bruxism)
• Defecate less
• Sit hunched with eyes tightly closed
• Hold ears back and whiskers pulled tightly against the cheeks

Causes of Pododermatitis in Rabbits

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

Any of the following risk factors may contribute:

• Hard surfaces such as wire cage bottoms or hardwood
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Small cage or lack of exercise
• Large or giant breeds
• Fur loss from wear or clipping
• Poor nutrition
• Moist or unhygienic bedding (urine/fecal soiling)
• Lameness causing uneven weight distribution
• Paralysis or paresis
• Rex breeds with fine, sparse hair
• Abrasive carpets
• Spinal deformities

How Veterinarians Diagnose Pododermatitis in Rabbits

Pododermatitis in rabbits is typically diagnosed through history and physical examination.

For chronic or severe cases, additional diagnostics may include:

• Complete blood count (CBC) to evaluate 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 exam.

Treatment of Pododermatitis in Rabbits

Treatment of pododermatitis in rabbits focuses on removing underlying causes and protecting the feet from further damage.

At-home environmental improvements may include:

• Thick yoga mats
• Foam egg crate bedding
• Towels
• Paper bedding
• Deep peat moss
• Eliminating wire or concrete flooring

Daily cage cleaning and keeping feet clean and dry are critical.

Veterinary treatment may include:

• Systemic antibiotics for infection
• Topical treatments such as manuka honey
• Pain medication (analgesics)
• Protective boots or bandaging
• Surgery for severe cases requiring skin flap repair

Pododermatitis is often progressive and cannot be fully 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 veterinary guidance, management strategies include:

• Thick, absorbent bedding of straw or hay

• Eliminating wire and concrete surfaces

• Weight management

• Protective boots if needed

Complications may include:

• Septicemia

• Osteomyelitis

• Tendon displacement and paralysis

• Secondary ear infections

Prevention of Pododermatitis in Rabbits

Prevention of pododermatitis in rabbits centers on proper husbandry and weight management.

• Provide soft flooring

• Clean cage daily

• Maintain healthy body weight

• Encourage daily exercise (ideally up to 4 hours)

• Use an enclosure at least four times the size of the rabbit

• Ensure enough space to hop and stand upright

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