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Red, sore, or bald feet in rabbits

What this sign can mean and when to act, from House Rabbit Society and RWAF guidance. This is general information, not a diagnosis.

What you noticed is worth a vet's eyes soon. Rabbits are good at hiding when something is wrong, so it's best to have your exotic vet take a look before anything has a chance to progress. Book a routine appointment in the next day or two, and call sooner if anything gets worse.

What it can mean

Red, sore, or bald feet (pododermatitis, sometimes called hutch burn) can be associated with living on hard, wire, or damp flooring that removes the protective fur pad, obesity putting extra pressure on the feet, or arthritis causing an abnormal posture that concentrates weight on one area. Rex breeds are especially prone because of their finer fur. Early cases respond well to softer bedding and veterinary wound care.

Source: House Rabbit Society

Other signs to know

See the full symptom guide

Keep your bunny's care in one place

BunnyChart is a free rabbit-care companion. Track weight, check food safety, log symptoms, and keep a vet-ready health record for every bunny in your home, all with the gentle why behind it.

BunnyChart provides educational information from verified rabbit-care sources. It does not replace professional veterinary care. Always confirm health-related information with your exotic vet.