Photos and edited by Susan Horton, DVM

Sore hocks happen when rabbits are kept on inappropriate footing or substrate, but also when they are in unclean situations.  They should not be kept on wire footing.  This can lead to debridement of the hocks.  Large sores will form and take months to heal.  It is a very painful condition which requires medical attention.  Moist conditions created by excessive urine production or diarrhea can lead to sores on the fore and hind limbs.  These conditions must be addressed as well as the sores created by them.