Sore hocks, also known as pododermatitis, is a condition in which sores and inflammation develop on the area just below a rabbit’s hocks, or soles of its feet. Pododermatitis can result in a bacterial infection. In the case of an infection, a veterinarian will usually clean the wounded area and prescribe an antibiotic regimen.
Rabbit owners can avoid sore hocks by ensuring a few basic items are provided in the rabbit's cage. First, make sure that your rabbit has a clean and dry floor to sit on. Cages with a wire bottom must have a separate area with a solid bottom for the rabbit to rest; otherwise, wires will cause sores if the rabbit is on them all the time. Second, if your rabbit is overweight, consider putting it on a diet to decrease the pressure on the hocks and related joints. Third, make sure that the hutch is the proper size for your rabbit. A cage that is too small will not allow your rabbit to move freely and will also contribute to weight gain.
