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Rabbit: Feet Problem

22 11:36:11

Question
Two weeks ago my rabbit (Angora)  started losing fur on his heels. (without ulceration).
The vet prescribed a cream which commercial name is Quadriderm and his opinion was that this was caused by some humid surface where the rabbit stayed. (perhaps while I was cleaning)
He lives in the living room (no cage) and he has a litter box covered with newspaper which is changed daily.
Evolution is to slow: After 2 weeks of treatment, very few fur was recovered on the heels but the lost of fur extended to the upper part of the feet.
I'm afraid this was caused by something else or may be treatment is not suitable.
What's your opinion?
Thanks a lot
Maria  

Answer
Dear Maria,

What you describe is not uncommon and is more prone to happen in breeds with very thin, fine fur such as angoras and Rex rabbits.  What type of housing does he live in, and what type of flooring does he walk on?  It's very important that he have   firm, cushioned surface for standing and walking.  Grassy lawn is ideal, if you can let him exercise in a protected yard under your supervision.  Indoor surfaces should also be padded, such as with carpet or 100% cotton mat runners.

How old is your bunny?  In some cases, arthritis or other joing pain can cause the bunny to posture abnormally, resulting in pressure on the feet that causes fur to wear in an unsual/bad way.  Treatment with arthritis remedies such as Rimadyl can be helpful if this is the case.

In our bunnies with this problem, we've found that wrapping the feet gently (not too tight!) with VetWrap (an elastic bandage) and padded with a nice wad of actual rabbit fur (he's an angora, so should have plenty of clippings to donate!) will help cushion the feet until the fur can grow back.  I've been meaning to write a short article with diagrams about this, but haven't done it yet.  If you think you need instruction, please let me know.

Hope this helps.  Please write back if you have any other questions.

Dana