Worrisome Foot

[Katy_J]

My young dwarf, Charlie, seems to have one back leg that isn’t as strong. I don’t know if he strained it while he was out to play. Its been an issue on and off for about a month. I still let him out to play every day and keep an eye. A couple times I’ve kept him on bed rest (or the equivalent haha) to help it rest. 

He seems to lose balance while running and doesn’t seem to sit confidently. He kind of rocks back on his haunches when he sits. Should I be running to the vet or is it just a leg strain?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!!

[niniliefie]

Hey katy jean! I’m new to the bun world… But have you considered an ear infection? I’ve read that it can cause all of the symptoms you’ve mentioned and my friend’s guinepig had an ear infection and he also lost his balance etc. With a visit to the vet and a few eardrops he was A-ok again. Just a thought-dont know if you’ve ruled it out yet?

[Sarita]

I think if you just aren’t sure a visit to the vet for a complete physical exam is a good idea.

[Tibbs]

Two things come to mind when I read your post! Both of which I’ve had experience with, in my buns.

Firstly, How old is your bunny? As well as the breed! Are your floors hardwood, tiled or smooth carpet?

I ask this, because your rabbit could have e. cunilli (all rabbits do… but sometimes it stays dormant, sometimes, with age it becomes active) I first noticed the symptoms arising in my rabbit when he couldn’t stand on hardwood floorsand would hover around my feet for support. The next thing I noticed was a reluctance to let me see his left side (which developed an eye problem due to the situation) however, it is treatable! Not curable, but treatable and it isnt too expensive. .

Next, how often is your rabbit in a cage? Is your rabbit over weight? How old is your rabbit?

I as because older rabbits have severe muscle deterioration when not active enough. You often see in caged rabbits that their leg muscles are weakened and therefore resemble a lameness. This can be fixed with exercise and I would recommend purchasing some joint support supplements (theyre sold in little tabs; some bunnies like to eat them, some don’t but mix it with a little unsweetened apple sauce, and its game time)

Over all, if youve seen no aggression or depression in your bun, I think you’re okay! Just get it checked when you’re at the doctor next time!

[Author]

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