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Piel y pelo

Pododermatitis

Inflammation of the skin of the feet. In rabbits it is especially serious (sore hocks) and can be very painful.

Moderate🐕 Dogs🐰 Rabbits

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Redness and swelling between the toes or on the pads
  • • Excessive licking of the feet
  • • Lameness
  • • In rabbits: ulcers and scabs on the hocks
  • • Pain when bearing weight

Causes

Dogs: allergies, foreign bodies (grass awns), infections, moisture. Rabbits: hard or wire-mesh surfaces, being overweight, poor hygiene, unsuitable flooring.

Diagnosis

Examination of the feet. The vet looks for foreign bodies, performs cytology and assesses the underlying cause.

Treatment

Treat the cause: remove foreign bodies, treat the infection or allergy. In rabbits: switch to soft, absorbent flooring, manage the weight, apply local wound care.

Prevention

Rabbits: soft flooring (NEVER wire mesh), good hygiene, a healthy weight. Dogs: check the feet after walks and dry them well.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if there is lameness, constant licking of the feet or any lesions. In rabbits it is urgent: advanced sore hocks is very difficult to cure.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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