Pet Information > ASK Experts > Exotic Pets > Rabbits > Rabbits with frozen feet

Rabbits with frozen feet

22 9:53:29

Question
I'm the rabbit volunteer at my local shelter.  We took in 2 rabbits that were housed in outside hutches.  The two sisters, who were kept in one cage together, have a problem with their feet. It's appears that they "prance" on them.  It's not a binky.  I'm wondering this could be a neurological condition or if it could be the result of frostbite.  They are undernourished as they were being raised for meat.

Answer
Dear Judy,

Wow, poor bunnies.  But LUCKY bunnies!

Has a vet been able to examine the feet yet?  This could be any number of things, and frostbite isn't a bad guess.  But without an in-person exam, I can't really guess what has happened to their feet to make them tender.

I would recommend an experienced rabbit vet have a look at the feet, and perform tests to check whether there is numbness or excessive sensitivity.  The main thing now is to see if the condition can be treated and cured, no matter what originally caused it.

I hope they will be well and happy soon!

Dana