What Is Pododermatitis?
Pododermatitis means inflammation of the skin on the feet, including the pads, the skin between the toes and around the nails. It is a description rather than a single disease: many different problems can cause it. In rabbits, guinea pigs and birds, pressure sores on the feet are often called bumblefoot.
Common Causes
- Allergies to food or the environment, one of the most common causes in dogs
- Bacterial or yeast infections; see dog paw yeast infection
- Parasites, especially demodectic mange
- Ingrown hairs and cysts between the toes; see interdigital cysts
- Foreign bodies such as grass seeds or splinters
- Hard or wire flooring and wet bedding, a major cause of bumblefoot in rabbits
- Immune conditions such as plasma cell pododermatitis in cats, sometimes called pillow foot
Signs
- Constant licking or chewing of the feet; see dog licking paws
- Red, swollen or hairless skin between the toes
- Bumps, pus, crusts or bleeding
- Limping or reluctance to walk
- Soft, puffy pads in cats, or red, scabbed heels in rabbits
Finding the real cause
Treating only the infection often leads to repeat flare-ups. Vets usually look for the trigger underneath, such as an allergy, parasite or flooring problem, so the paws stay healthy long term.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Vets use skin scrapings, swabs, cultures and sometimes biopsies to find the cause. Treatment can include:
- Antibiotics or antifungal medication for infections
- Medicated soaks, wipes or shampoos
- Allergy management, such as a diet trial or anti-itch medication
- Parasite treatment when mites are found
- Softer, dry bedding and flooring for rabbits and other small pets; see the Flemish Giant rabbit guide for a heavy breed at higher risk
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pododermatitis contagious?
Usually not. Most cases come from allergies, infections or pressure, not from other pets. Some parasites and fungal infections can spread, so your vet will check.
How long does it take to heal?
Mild cases can improve within a few weeks. Deep infections may need six weeks or more of treatment, and allergic cases need ongoing management.
Can I treat my pet’s paws at home?
Keeping the feet clean and dry helps, but red, swollen or oozing paws should be seen by a vet to find the cause.
If your pet keeps licking or limping on a swollen paw, book a check-up. Find a veterinary clinic near you for an exam.