Footpad Infections (Bacterial Pododermatitis)

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Serious (sometimes crippling) infections of the footpads are

common among pet guinea pigs housed continuously on wire.  The

other major predisposing factor is fecal soiling of wire-bottomed

enclosures.  The front feet of overweight animals are especially

vulnerable to this condition.



Signs include swelling of the feet, lameness, reluctance to

move, and inappetence.  The flooring of the enclosure must be

changed and overall sanitation must be improved.  A veterinarian

must be consulted regarding treatment of the affected feet.

Topical dressing with an antibiotic and periodic bandaging are

necessary during the usually lengthy recovery period.  Injectable

antibiotics are often used by veterinarians in treatment of this

condition.  Arthritis is a frequent and unfortunate consequence

of these infections.