Take care not to force the rabbit over, as this can damage their spine. You may find it helps to cover the rabbit’s eyes with a towel as this has a naturally subduing effect. It’s a good idea to sit on the floor when checking your rabbit, just in case they wriggle and you let go.
If the problem has progressed a bit further, the area may become puffy or swollen, the skin may be obviously reddened or even cracked or scabby. Even further, it can develop into a sore or ulcer form. An ulcer is when the surface of the skin breaks open, often in response to pressure, such as is the case with bed sores. [3] X Research source
The area may smell unpleasant. Usually there is significant swelling and large areas of skin loss from the lower surface of the limb. Once the discharge is cleaned away you may even be able to see underlying structures through the gap in the skin, such as tendons or ligaments.
In some cases the infection spreads into the joints or even the bones. This is very painful and the rabbit will be reluctant to move. When it does move, it will be with an abnormal gait or a limp. The pain and discomfort may also stop the rabbit from eating.
Be sure to keep the rabbit’s living space clean as well. If the hock injury was caused by the rabbit sitting in urine, clean the area and make sure it is no longer sitting in its filth.
The vet will examine the rabbit to check for health problems that could cause it to sit still for longer than normal. The veterinarian will also check the length of the rabbit’s claws. Long claws raise up the paw, especially on hard surfaces, pushing the weight back onto the rabbit’s hocks.
Your veterinarian my prescribe a medication, such as an antibiotic, to apply to the wound. This will help kill any infection and allow the wound to begin healing. [7] X Research source
Also, wild rabbits tend to be lean, so they are not carrying excess weight which presses down on the hock area.
In addition rabbits kept in hutches for part of the time may be on abrasive surfaces such as mesh, which abrade and traumatize the skin to the lower limb. Also, wet bedding softens the skin and weakens its ability to form calluses and protect itself. Indeed, urine in straw macerates (softens) the skin further and dirty conditions predispose to infection. [9] X Research source Pet rabbits may also be overweight, which adds extra pressure onto the rear limbs. [10] X Research source
Trim your rabbit’s nails on a regular basis, so that its long nails don’t press the hocks awkwardly onto the ground. Also, keep your rabbit at a healthy weight, so it is not carrying excess weight. Excess weight can put extra pressure on the hocks.
