Appears to have sore hocks (pics), any thoughts?

[Annabelle's mommy]

Hi everybunny!

Yesterday I noticed Annabelle had a red/pink spot on the heel of her foot while she was hopping around in bed with me.  I’m sure it must be sore hocks, however I have never dealt with this and am unsure as to whether or not this requires immediate vet attention. Now Annabelle has been to the vet three times since September.  A check-up (her feet were examined and the vet said they looked really good), her spay, and then again to the emergency vet for Gi stasis. To give you an idea of her home life, she lives in a pen which is probably about 10 feet by 3 feet.  Up until yesterday, it was about 1/3 covered by a towel, a fluffy bathmat, a “welcome” doormat, and a textured plastic plastic mat near her food area. This left some of the wood floor open, but not a lot.  Today I added a yoga mat to her hutch (she doesnt chew), and so now theres almost no bare floor. Behavior wise, she has been normal, does not appear to be in any pain, stands on her back legs (to beg for treats), flops etc.

Here is a pic of her foot, its just the one.  Shes turning 2 in March, and is a holland lop.

I’m wondering what I can do to help, and if I should take her to the vet? I am a student and have exams going on right now. I will always take her to the vet if she needs it, no hesitation, but I would prefer to do whatever I can at home if possible first.

Thanks in advance for replies bun family!

 

[Bam]

This looks more like a callus formation than like actual sore hocks. Calluses is an early stage of sore hocks, but it doesn’t have to progress into sore hocks. It’s fairly “normal” in rex rabbits because they have insufficient coverage of their “foot soles”.

Do you think there’s inflammation or is it just callused skin? Inflammation and open sores must be seen by a vet. Calluses can be managed at home. It’s mostly about flooring. Some carpets are abrasive, so not all carpets/rugs are good. Several of our members, forum leader LPT included, have had success with memory foam bath mats.

[Annabelle's mommy]

Hi bam! I want to think its just a callus, however I will investigate tonight further. What would I look for if its inflamed as opposed to a callus? Its definitely not an open sore, but it is pretty pink.

[LittlePuffyTail]

I agree, looks like just a callous. Callouses are hard and pink. True sore hocks can be more soft, bright red and/or blistering/bleeding.

If it’s dark pink and a callous it just requires monitoring, keeping nails trimmed as short as possible and possible change in living space. As Bam mentioned, Memory Foam Bath Mats worked great for my buns. I bought the good quality ones from Bed Bath & Beyond.

[Annabelle's mommy]

I suspect it is a combination of nails needing to be trimmed and the floor.  Both are underway! thanks!!

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