Bumblefoot (Ulcerative Pododermatitis)

Bumblefoot is the common name for inflammation and infection (usually staphylococcus aureus) on the underside of the hind foot and heel. It can often develop into large ulcers that are difficult to get on top off.

It is important to check your rat’s feet regularly for any signs of redness, swelling or bleeding, and treat as quickly as possible.

Contributing Factors

•Trauma – cuts and scratches to the feet can become infected.

•Age – older rats tend to walk with their whole foot flat on the ground. The extra pressure on the underside of the feet can definitely aggravate the condition.

•Obesity – obviously adds to the pressure on the feet.

•Diabetes – affects the circulation of the blood in the extremities of the body, making any cuts, infections less likely to heal quickly. Diabetic rats are often overweight.

•Genetic tendency – there have been documented cases of bumblefoot developing among related rats.

•Wire floors – although not necessarily the ‘cause’, wire floors can aggravate sore feet and delay the healing process. Wire floors should be checked regularly for sharp areas, as through regular use and washing, they can become less 'foot friendly'.

•Solid floors – plastic shelves do not allow urine to drain away. This is likely to make the chance of infection higher as the rat may be in constant contact with urine and bacteria. (Urine can cause skin maceration). Often rats with foot problems also find solid shelves harder to navigate as their grip and traction is compromised.

•Plastic igloos – like the solid shelves, igloos (with floors attached) do not allow urine to drain away. Constant contact with urine can increase the risk of bacterial infection.

Treating Bumblefoot

Check your rat’s feet daily.

Keep his cage clean – solid shelves need wiped down and dried on a daily basis.

If you notice any redness and/or swelling

• Seek veterinary advice.

•Soft, thick bedding will help relieve the pressure on the feet. (I'd recommend VetBed over other things). Keep bedding scrupulously clean.

•Replace shelves with hammocks if possible, or cover with fabric. Again these need to be kept very clean. This might not be suitable for older, or less mobile rats though.

•Wash and dry your rat’s feet twice a day with saline or Hibiscrub.

•Gentian violet with aloe vera can be applied to the sore area. This is popular amongst horse owners and can be obtained in spray or cream form from a equine store. Cream is obviously easier to apply to the small foot of a rat. Alow vera alone will also soothe and heal.

•St. John’s Wort tincture or St. John’s Wort in olive oil, applied topically to the bumble, may also help by reducing inflammation and promoting healing. It is also a mild topical painkiller.

• Propolis cream applied to the area can help reduce and swelling and fight bacteria. It also eases pain.

 

Medical Treatment

•Systemic and topical antibiotics are often successful in clearing up minor cases of bumblefoot.

•steroid creams can help reduce any inflammation

• Anabolic steroids can help when there is continual bleeding from the bumble.

• Vitamin K injections can help blood clotting (again if there is continual bleeding )

• Surgical removal is a possibility if other treatment is unsuccessful and your rat is otherwise healthy.

 

Cage cleanliness and foot washing will still be required.