Can mesh cages and wheels cause bumblefoot in my pet mouse?

From these photos, there is definitely some swelling, and possible ulceration. These are definitely signs consistent with bumblefoot, also known as pododermatitis. This is typically caused by increased pressure on the feet and results in bleeding and pain. This can unfortunately spread to the tissues such as muscles and tendons below, so I still recommend having Dobby looked at by a vet, just in case surgery or pain medication is necessary. Because the condition is caused by pressure on the feet, I recommend making sure that Dobby has soft, and very clean bedding as dirty bedding can cause an infection. You should avoid scratchy materials for bedding. Vetericyin ointment is okay for cleaning the area, you can also apply SSD (silver sulfadiazene) ointment to the area after cleaning. Dobby should definitely visit a vet if the condition continues to get worse over the next few days. I hope this helps!

Pododermatitis is a condition where the skin of the paws is infected. Molly can show signs such as ulceration, bleeding, and swelling of the feet. This condition is extremely painful and can be brought on by improper cage flooring, compounded with being over weight. Molly may need oral antibiotics, which can be prescribed by her vet. In the meantime, you can make sure she has nice soft bedding, keep her cage as clean as possible, keep her feet clean, and apply SSD (silver sulfadiazene) ointment to Molly's feet. I hope this helps and that all is well!

I am sorry to hear about Herbert. He is a cutie. It looks like he could have a case of what we call "bumblefoot" or pododermatitis. This can be a result of living on a hard flooring surface (such as wire floor) or dirty substrate. He will need a visit with a vet to assess the severity of the infection in the skin. Some cases can be treated topically or with bandaging but some cases need oral antibiotics for treatment as well. Until you are able to get an appointment, he should be placed on soft substrate such as Carefresh paper bedding and it should be kept very clean to decrease chance of the condition worsening.

It could be the start of bumble foot. Be sure that his cage is softly bedded and he is not standing on hard surfaces. I just recommend you try this Vetericyn Spray Gel on the affected are a couple times per day until healed. https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/vetericyn-plus-antimicrobial-wound-and-skin-hydrogel-for-pets

Thanks for reaching out about your rat. Wire bars are a mild concern as their feet or legs can slip through, leading to sprain or even fractures. A solid bottom cage is preferred for rodents because of this. Good luck.

In comparison with the other feet, there is marked swelling. This could be due to infection/bumblefoot. Ideally, Cedric should be examined by your veterinarian to confirm infection and treated if indicated.

Thanks for reaching out about Henry. Bumblefoot is not common in hamsters unless severely overweight. Provide soft substrate, reduce weight if obese through proper nutrition and exercise. Hydrogen peroxide should not be continued as it indiscriminately kills cells, bacteria but also healing cells. Topical 100% aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties and should not be harmful if ingested. A veterinary visit can assist with assessment and prescription of proper medications. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Stitch and including a photo. The picture does not include evidence of bumble foot, which is also not common in hamsters due to soft bedding and does not seem overweight. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess your concerns. Monitor activity, food and water intake. Good luck.

Thank you for using Boop by Petco! From the photo, I can see a small ulceration or reddened area on one of Leilani's feet. This can be due to a pressure sore and a secondary infection. These issues can be caused by inappropriate flooring in the cage such as wire. Leilani should have a solid floor cage with plenty of bedding. Heavier animals are predisposed to these types of wounds from the increased pressure on the feet, so Leilani may need to cut down on treats if she is overweight to help the condition resolve. You should have Leilani seen by a vet as soon as possible, as she may require antibiotics if an infection is present. In the meantime, you should keep the area clean and apply a small amount of SSD (silver sulfadiazene) ointment to the area to promote healing. I hope this helps!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Percy. A swollen foot in a guinea pig can be due to a condition known as bumble foot. This is a potentially serious condition that is an infection in the foot. The infection can unfortunately spread to the bone. I would continue to give the medications prescribed by your veterinarian. It should be fine to cleanse the paw with warm water as well. Make sure he is not being housed on wire flooring as this can contribute to the condition. I hope this information helps!