Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis in rabbits is a localized inflammatory skin reaction that occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritating or allergenic substance. This condition differs from atopic dermatitis in that it requires physical contact with the offending agent and typically affects only the areas of skin that touched the substance. Contact dermatitis is relatively common in domestic rabbits and can result from exposure to a wide variety of substances including bedding materials, cleaning products, topical medications, plants, and various household chemicals. Any rabbit can develop contact dermatitis, though those with thinner fur coverage in contact areas, such as Rex breeds, may be more susceptible.

The underlying causes of contact dermatitis fall into two categories: irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis. Irritant contact dermatitis occurs when a substance directly damages the skin through chemical or physical action, and can happen on first exposure to strong irritants. Allergic contact dermatitis involves an immune-mediated hypersensitivity reaction that develops after the rabbit becomes sensitized to a substance through previous exposures. Common triggers include aromatic wood shavings like cedar and pine, household cleaning products and disinfectants, certain bedding materials, some topical medications, and plants or plant-based products. The reaction occurs at areas of direct skin contact, most commonly the feet, ventral abdomen, chin, and any sparsely-haired regions.

The impact of contact dermatitis on rabbit health depends on the severity of the reaction and how quickly the offending agent is identified and removed. Mild cases cause discomfort and localized skin changes that resolve readily once exposure ends. More severe cases can cause significant skin damage, pain, and secondary complications. Chronic exposure without identification of the cause leads to ongoing skin irritation, potential secondary infections, and decreased quality of life. The discomfort associated with contact dermatitis can affect appetite and activity levels, and in severe cases, the stress and pain can contribute to GI stasis, a potentially life-threatening complication in rabbits.

With appropriate veterinary care and identification of the triggering substance, contact dermatitis is highly treatable and often completely resolvable. The key to successful management is identifying and eliminating the source of irritation. Unlike atopic dermatitis, which requires ongoing management of unavoidable environmental allergens, contact dermatitis can often be cured by simply removing the offending substance from the rabbit's environment. A rabbit-savvy veterinarian can help identify potential causes, rule out other skin conditions, and provide appropriate treatment for any skin damage or secondary infection that has occurred.

The primary causes of contact dermatitis involve direct skin contact with irritating or allergenic substances. Irritant contact dermatitis results from substances that directly damage skin cells through chemical action, and does not require prior sensitization. Common irritants include concentrated cleaning products and disinfectants, urine and feces allowed to accumulate on skin, cedar and pine wood shavings containing aromatic phenolic compounds, some topical medications applied improperly or in excessive amounts, and caustic or acidic household chemicals. Strong irritants can cause immediate reaction on first exposure, while weaker irritants may cause cumulative damage with repeated exposure. Allergic contact dermatitis requires initial sensitization during which the immune system develops reactivity to a substance, followed by allergic inflammation on subsequent exposures. This type typically takes longer to develop but may cause severe reactions once established.

Specific substances commonly implicated in rabbit contact dermatitis include several categories of materials. Bedding materials are frequent culprits, with cedar and pine shavings being notorious for causing contact reactions due to their aromatic oils, though other bedding types can also cause problems in sensitive individuals. Cleaning products used to wash cages or floors can leave residues that irritate rabbit skin, particularly if products are not thoroughly rinsed. Topical treatments including some flea products not approved for rabbits, antiseptics applied too frequently, or medications that individual rabbits react to can cause contact dermatitis. Certain fabrics, carpet materials, or rubber and plastic compounds in cage accessories may trigger reactions. Plants, both indoor houseplants and outdoor vegetation, can cause contact reactions in some rabbits.

Environmental and lifestyle factors influence the development and severity of contact dermatitis. Rabbits kept in cages with wire flooring have continuous pressure and friction on their feet that increases susceptibility to irritants. Inadequate cage cleaning allows urine and feces to accumulate, creating constant exposure to irritating waste products. Poor ventilation concentrates volatile compounds from aromatic bedding. Damp conditions keep irritants in prolonged contact with skin. Rabbits that spend time on recently cleaned floors may encounter cleaning product residues. Those allowed access to houseplants or gardens may contact irritating plant substances. Indoor rabbits face different exposures than outdoor rabbits, with household chemicals and synthetic materials being more common indoor irritants while plants and outdoor treatments pose outdoor risks.

Risk factors for developing contact dermatitis include both rabbit-specific and environmental elements. Rex and Mini Rex rabbits have shorter, less dense fur that provides less protection for the skin, making them more susceptible to irritant contact. Rabbits with any areas of hair loss or thin fur have reduced barriers to irritant contact. Young rabbits and elderly rabbits may have more sensitive skin. Those with pre-existing skin conditions or compromised skin barriers are more vulnerable. Rabbits housed on wire flooring or inappropriate substrates face constant irritation that increases susceptibility to contact reactions. Immunocompromised rabbits may develop more severe reactions.

The mechanism of contact dermatitis development differs between irritant and allergic types. Irritant contact dermatitis occurs when substances directly damage skin cells, triggering an inflammatory response. Strong irritants cause immediate damage and inflammation, while weaker irritants may cause cumulative damage leading to delayed symptom appearance. Allergic contact dermatitis involves the immune system: initial exposure to a substance leads to sensitization over days to weeks, during which the immune system develops specific reactivity. Subsequent exposure triggers an allergic inflammatory response at the contact site. Both types result in localized redness, swelling, itching, and potential skin damage. Chronic exposure leads to progressive skin changes and potential secondary infection. The discomfort and stress from skin inflammation can secondarily affect appetite and potentially contribute to GI stasis in severe or prolonged cases.

Early warning signs of contact dermatitis may be subtle and localized to areas of irritant contact. Owners may notice the rabbit paying increased attention to certain body areas through licking, nibbling, or scratching. Mild redness may appear on skin that contacts suspected irritants, particularly visible on the relatively hairless portions of the feet, inner thighs, ventral abdomen, or chin. The rabbit may seem reluctant to stand on certain surfaces or shift weight frequently when standing. Subtle changes in foot posture or gait may indicate foot discomfort. The skin may appear slightly pink or dry in contact areas before more obvious inflammation develops. Since rabbits hide discomfort, these early signs warrant investigation even when mild.

Common symptoms of established contact dermatitis include clearly visible skin inflammation in areas that contact the offending substance. The affected skin appears red, pink, or inflamed, with the distribution pattern often providing clues to the cause. Feet are commonly affected, with redness and possible swelling of the footpads and surrounding skin. The ventral abdomen and chest may show inflammation in rabbits lying on irritating bedding. The chin and dewlap can be affected by food bowl or water bottle contact reactions. Hair loss in affected areas results from both the inflammatory process and the rabbit's grooming and scratching. The skin may appear moist, crusty, or scaly depending on the type and severity of reaction. Itching is variable but often present, leading to scratching or excessive grooming of affected areas.

Behavioral changes associated with contact dermatitis reflect discomfort at the affected sites. Rabbits with foot involvement may be reluctant to move, may shift weight frequently when standing, or may prefer to lie down rather than sit upright. Affected rabbits may excessively groom or chew at irritated areas, potentially causing additional damage. They may seek out cooler surfaces if inflammation causes warmth. Changes in normal resting positions may indicate discomfort when lying on affected areas. Decreased appetite can occur if discomfort is significant. Activity levels often decrease as movement becomes uncomfortable. The rabbit may seem irritable, especially when handled in ways that contact affected areas. Thumping or other signs of distress may occur with severe discomfort.

Physical signs visible during examination vary with the type and severity of reaction. Affected skin shows erythema or redness ranging from mild pinkness to intense inflammation. Swelling may be present, particularly with acute or severe reactions. The skin texture may change, becoming rough, scaly, dry, or conversely moist and weeping with severe reactions. Hair loss exposes inflamed skin in affected areas. Vesicles or blisters may form with acute allergic reactions or chemical burns. Crusting develops as moist lesions dry or as the skin attempts to heal. Secondary bacterial infection may cause pustules, increased redness, and purulent discharge. The distribution pattern typically corresponds to areas of contact with the causative agent, often appearing on the ventral surfaces that contact bedding or flooring.

Symptom progression without removal of the offending agent follows a worsening pattern. Initial mild inflammation intensifies with continued exposure. Skin damage increases, potentially extending beyond the original contact areas. Secondary bacterial infection commonly develops in damaged skin, causing additional inflammation and discharge. Hair loss expands as inflammation continues. The skin may thicken and change texture with chronic irritation. Discomfort increases, leading to more pronounced behavioral changes. Without identification and removal of the cause, symptoms will not resolve and may lead to significant skin damage and secondary complications.

Emergency symptoms from contact dermatitis are uncommon but can occur with severe reactions. Chemical burns causing deep skin damage require immediate veterinary care. Severe allergic reactions with extensive inflammation, swelling affecting mobility, or systemic signs need urgent attention. Secondary infections that become severe, with spreading cellulitis, fever, or systemic illness signs, constitute emergencies. Any rabbit that stops eating for twelve hours or more, regardless of cause, faces GI stasis risk and needs emergency care. Extreme pain evidenced by teeth grinding, immobility, or hunched posture warrants immediate evaluation. These complications are preventable with prompt identification and management of contact dermatitis.

Initial examination for suspected contact dermatitis involves comprehensive assessment by a rabbit-savvy veterinarian combined with detailed environmental investigation. The veterinarian will collect thorough history including recent changes in bedding, cleaning products, or environment, the rabbit's housing setup and substrate types, any products applied to the rabbit or its living area, and access to plants or outdoor areas. Physical examination focuses on distribution and character of skin lesions, looking for patterns that suggest contact origin. The location of lesions often provides important diagnostic clues, with footpad involvement suggesting floor or bedding contact, ventral lesions suggesting lying surface contact, and chin lesions suggesting food bowl or water container contact. General examination ensures overall health and identifies any concurrent conditions.

Diagnostic tests help confirm contact dermatitis and rule out other causes of skin inflammation. Skin scrapings examined microscopically identify parasites such as fur mites, which are extremely common in rabbits and can cause similar symptoms. Fungal culture rules out dermatophytosis or ringworm, another common cause of skin lesions. Cytology of skin samples identifies secondary bacterial or yeast infections requiring treatment. If lesions suggest infection, bacterial culture and sensitivity may guide antibiotic selection. Blood tests may be performed if systemic illness is suspected. In some cases, patch testing can help identify specific contact allergens, though this is not commonly performed in rabbits. Often, identification of the causative agent relies on careful history and environmental investigation.

Differential diagnosis must consider other conditions causing similar symptoms. Pododermatitis or sore hocks, common in rabbits housed on wire or hard surfaces, primarily affects the feet and can resemble contact dermatitis. Urine scald from prolonged contact with urine-soaked bedding is essentially a form of irritant contact dermatitis. Ectoparasites cause itchy, inflammatory skin disease that may resemble allergic contact reactions. Atopic dermatitis from environmental allergens can present similarly but typically has more widespread distribution. Dermatophytosis causes localized skin lesions. Bacterial skin infections may occur primarily rather than secondarily. The pattern of distribution and response to removing suspected irritants helps differentiate contact dermatitis from other conditions.

Diagnosis confirmation often relies on response to elimination of suspected causative agents. When a likely cause is identified and removed, improvement within one to two weeks supports the diagnosis of contact dermatitis. If multiple potential causes exist, systematic elimination helps identify the specific trigger. Complete resolution after removing a substance confirms its role in causing the reaction. In cases where the cause is not readily identified, the veterinarian may recommend environmental modifications to eliminate multiple potential irritants simultaneously. Documentation of which changes correspond to improvement helps identify the specific cause for future avoidance. If symptoms fail to improve with environmental modification, further investigation for other causes is warranted.

Emergency treatment for severe contact dermatitis focuses on removing the irritant and managing acute symptoms. Chemical burns require immediate washing to remove residual causative agent, with careful attention to using appropriate neutralizing solutions if applicable. Pain management addresses acute discomfort. If the rabbit has stopped eating, syringe feeding with critical care formula begins immediately to prevent GI stasis. Severe swelling or widespread reaction may require aggressive anti-inflammatory treatment. Secondary infections with systemic signs need immediate antibiotic therapy. Stabilization addresses urgent needs before comprehensive management begins. Fortunately, most contact dermatitis cases do not reach emergency severity if recognized promptly.

Medical management begins with identifying and eliminating the source of irritation, which is the foundation of treatment. Without removing the offending substance, no amount of medication will resolve the condition. Once the cause is eliminated, symptomatic treatment addresses existing skin damage. Topical treatments may include gentle cleansing of affected areas, application of soothing agents such as aloe vera products approved for use on rabbits, and topical medications to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Systemic anti-inflammatory medications, typically meloxicam at appropriate rabbit doses, may be prescribed for significant inflammation. Secondary bacterial infections require rabbit-safe antibiotics such as enrofloxacin or trimethoprim-sulfa, never oral penicillin-type antibiotics which are dangerous to rabbits. Severe itching may warrant antihistamines, though response is variable in rabbits.

Environmental modification is essential and often curative. Bedding should be changed to a known safe material, with paper-based products being excellent choices. Cedar and pine shavings should be permanently eliminated due to their irritating aromatic compounds. Cleaning products should be changed to unscented, rabbit-safe options with thorough rinsing after use. Wire flooring should be covered with solid surfaces. Any topical product that may have caused reaction should be discontinued. Plants the rabbit may have contacted should be removed from accessible areas. Household chemicals should be secured away from rabbit areas. The rabbit's entire environment should be evaluated for potential irritants, and any suspect items should be removed. Thorough cleaning of the enclosure with safe products removes any residual irritants.

Supportive care promotes healing and prevents complications. Maintaining adequate nutrition through normal diet if appetite is preserved, or syringe feeding if needed, ensures the rabbit has resources for healing and maintains gut function. Ensuring adequate hydration supports all healing processes. Keeping the affected rabbit in a clean environment on soft, non-irritating bedding protects healing skin. Gentle cleaning of affected areas as directed by the veterinarian removes discharge and promotes healing. Preventing the rabbit from excessive licking or chewing of healing areas may require distraction through enrichment or occasionally protective measures. Monitoring for secondary infection allows early intervention if needed.

Alternative and complementary approaches support conventional treatment. Oatmeal-based baths may soothe irritated skin in rabbits that tolerate bathing, though bathing itself can be stressful and should be done carefully. Chamomile compresses applied to affected areas may provide comfort. Ensuring optimal nutrition including appropriate fatty acids supports skin healing. Reducing overall stress through calm environment and gentle handling supports immune function and healing. Environmental enrichment maintains quality of life during recovery. Any complementary treatments should be discussed with the veterinarian to ensure safety.

Treatment decisions are generally straightforward for contact dermatitis once the cause is identified. Removing the offending agent is essential and non-negotiable. Symptomatic treatment intensity depends on reaction severity. Mild cases may need only environmental modification, while severe cases benefit from medical management of symptoms. Cost is typically modest for straightforward cases but increases if extensive testing or treatment for secondary infection is needed. Prognosis for recovery is excellent once the cause is eliminated, making identification of the trigger the most important aspect of management.

Recovery timeline for contact dermatitis is generally favorable once the offending agent is removed. Mild cases may show improvement within days and resolve within one to two weeks. Moderate cases typically improve steadily over two to four weeks with appropriate care. Severe cases with significant skin damage may take longer to heal completely, with gradual improvement over four to eight weeks. Hair regrowth in affected areas follows skin healing and may take several weeks to months to be complete. Cases complicated by secondary infection require additional time for infection resolution before healing can complete. Unlike chronic allergic conditions, contact dermatitis resolves completely once the cause is eliminated.

Post-treatment care focuses on preventing recurrence and supporting complete healing. The identified causative agent must be permanently eliminated from the rabbit's environment. Monitoring of healing skin ensures progress continues without complications. Any prescribed medications should be completed as directed. The rabbit should be housed on appropriate non-irritating bedding until healing is complete. Gradual return to normal activity is appropriate as comfort improves. Follow-up veterinary examination confirms resolution and identifies any residual concerns. Owners should remain vigilant for any symptom recurrence that might indicate either re-exposure or incomplete identification of all triggers.

Prognosis factors for contact dermatitis are generally favorable. Identification and elimination of the causative agent essentially guarantees resolution, making detective work to find the cause the most important prognostic factor. Severity of initial reaction affects healing time but not ultimate outcome if the cause is removed. Secondary infection prolongs recovery but typically resolves with appropriate treatment. Overall rabbit health affects healing capacity, with healthy individuals recovering faster. Owner compliance with environmental modifications determines success. The primary challenge is identifying the correct cause, particularly when multiple potential irritants exist or when the cause is not immediately obvious.

Long-term outlook for rabbits recovering from contact dermatitis is excellent with permanent elimination of the causative agent. Complete resolution is expected in most cases. Recurrence happens only with re-exposure to the trigger, which is preventable with proper environmental management. No ongoing treatment is typically needed after healing is complete. The experience can inform better choices for bedding, cleaning products, and other environmental factors that benefit the rabbit's long-term health. Some rabbits may have increased sensitivity to related substances and should be monitored if exposed to new products. Overall, contact dermatitis is among the most resolvable skin conditions in rabbits when properly managed.

Primary prevention of contact dermatitis focuses on avoiding known irritants and making safe environmental choices from the start. Cedar and pine wood shavings should never be used for rabbit bedding due to their well-documented irritating properties. Paper-based bedding, hay, or other non-aromatic substrates are safe choices. Cleaning products for rabbit enclosures should be unscented, non-toxic, and thoroughly rinsed after use. Any products applied directly to rabbits should be verified as rabbit-safe before use, with particular caution regarding flea products since many are dangerous for rabbits. New bedding materials, substrates, or products should be introduced gradually while monitoring for any reaction. Household chemicals should be secured away from rabbit areas.

Environmental prevention involves creating a safe living space free from potential irritants. Flooring should be solid rather than wire, with appropriate bedding that does not irritate skin. The enclosure should be cleaned regularly to prevent accumulation of waste products that can irritate skin. Adequate ventilation prevents buildup of volatile compounds. Materials used in cage construction, food bowls, and water containers should be inert and non-reactive. If rabbits have access to household areas, floors should be free from cleaning product residues and carpeting or rugs should be made of materials that do not irritate rabbit skin. Indoor plants should be evaluated for potential skin-irritating properties and placed out of rabbit reach if concerning.

Dietary factors are generally not directly related to contact dermatitis, but overall nutrition supports skin health and barrier function. Unlimited grass hay provides essential fiber for overall health. Appropriate pellet amounts ensure nutritional completeness. Fresh leafy greens provide vitamins that support skin health. Clean, fresh water always available supports hydration and overall health. While diet does not prevent contact dermatitis specifically, a well-nourished rabbit has healthier skin that may be more resistant to irritation and heals more readily if damage occurs.

Health maintenance through regular veterinary care enables early detection of any skin problems. Routine wellness examinations should include skin assessment. Regular owner examination of the rabbit's skin, particularly feet, belly, and chin, helps catch any developing problems early. Keeping nails trimmed prevents additional trauma to irritated skin. Maintaining clean, appropriate living conditions prevents many potential causes of contact dermatitis. Any new products introduced to the rabbit's environment should be monitored for reactions.

Early intervention when any skin changes are noticed prevents minor irritation from progressing to significant skin damage. If redness, hair loss, or irritation appears, the owner should immediately evaluate what the rabbit's skin has been contacting. Prompt removal of suspected irritants stops ongoing damage. Early veterinary consultation helps confirm the diagnosis and identify any needed treatment. Documenting what products were in use when problems developed helps identify causes and prevents future exposure. Quick action typically results in rapid resolution with minimal skin damage and no need for extensive treatment.

Daily management during recovery from contact dermatitis focuses on preventing re-exposure and supporting healing. The living environment should be kept clean with verified non-irritating bedding. Any prescribed medications should be administered consistently. Affected areas should be monitored daily for healing progress or any signs of secondary infection. The rabbit's comfort level should be observed, watching for signs of ongoing discomfort that might indicate incomplete removal of the causative agent or other issues. Food and water intake should be monitored since any condition causing discomfort can affect appetite. Fecal output should be checked to ensure gut function remains normal.

Home environment optimization for rabbits recovering from or susceptible to contact dermatitis requires attention to multiple factors. Bedding should be paper-based or another verified non-irritating material, changed frequently to maintain cleanliness. The enclosure floor should be solid, providing comfortable footing without irritation. Cleaning should use only rabbit-safe products with thorough rinsing. Air quality should be maintained through appropriate ventilation without drafts. Any new products or materials should be introduced cautiously with monitoring for reactions. The environment should be evaluated from the rabbit's perspective, considering what surfaces contact their feet, belly, and other vulnerable areas.

Maintaining quality of life during recovery requires balancing protection with normal rabbit activities. Affected rabbits should still have opportunity for exercise and enrichment within a safe, non-irritating environment. Social interaction with bonded partners should continue unless one rabbit is grooming the other's affected areas excessively. Human interaction and gentle handling provide comfort and allow monitoring of healing. Activities the rabbit enjoys should continue when possible, adapting as needed to protect healing skin. Recovery from contact dermatitis is typically quick enough that quality of life impact is temporary.

Ongoing monitoring after recovery ensures the problem does not recur. Owners should remain vigilant for any signs of skin irritation. Any new products introduced should be monitored carefully for reactions. The identified causative agent and related products should be permanently avoided. Regular inspection of feet, belly, and chin during grooming or handling catches any early changes. Documentation of what products are safe for the individual rabbit prevents future confusion. Any recurrence of symptoms should prompt immediate environmental evaluation and veterinary consultation if cause is not readily identified.

Caregiver education is particularly important for contact dermatitis prevention. Understanding which substances commonly cause reactions in rabbits helps owners make safe choices. Knowing to always thoroughly rinse cleaning products, to avoid aromatic wood shavings, and to verify rabbit safety of any topical products prevents many cases. Recognizing early signs of skin irritation enables prompt intervention. Having established safe product choices eliminates guesswork when purchasing supplies. Sharing this knowledge with pet sitters, family members, or anyone who cares for the rabbit prevents inadvertent exposure to irritants.

High-risk breeds for contact dermatitis include those with fur characteristics that provide less skin protection. Rex and Mini Rex rabbits have short, plush coats lacking the longer guard hairs that protect the skin in other breeds, making their skin more directly exposed to contact with surfaces and substances. This unique coat type means Rex breeds are particularly susceptible to foot irritation from flooring materials and to skin reactions from bedding and environmental substances. Angora and other long-haired breeds may be at increased risk for irritant accumulation in their dense coats, where substances can remain in prolonged contact with skin. Any individual rabbit with areas of thin fur or hair loss has reduced protection in those areas.

Moderate risk exists across all breeds depending on environmental exposures. Rabbits housed on wire flooring, regardless of breed, face increased risk of foot irritation that can progress to pododermatitis. Those exposed to aromatic wood shavings, harsh cleaning products, or other irritants face risk regardless of coat type. Large breed rabbits carry more weight on their feet and may be more susceptible to contact irritation of the footpads. Elderly rabbits may have thinner, less resilient skin. Rabbits with any pre-existing skin condition have compromised skin barriers that increase susceptibility. Individual rabbits may have particular sensitivities to substances that do not affect other rabbits.

Screening recommendations for at-risk breeds emphasize appropriate environmental choices from the start. Rex breed owners should pay particular attention to bedding selection and flooring surfaces, providing soft, non-irritating substrates that protect their more vulnerable skin. All rabbits should be housed on solid flooring with appropriate bedding rather than wire. Regular inspection of skin, particularly feet, belly, and chin, should be part of routine care for all rabbits. Any new products should be introduced with monitoring for reactions. Environmental evaluation from the perspective of what contacts the rabbit's skin helps identify potential problems before they cause significant irritation.

Commonly co-occurring conditions with contact dermatitis include complications that develop from the primary skin irritation. Secondary bacterial skin infections are common when damaged skin allows bacteria entry, causing additional inflammation, discharge, and delayed healing. Pododermatitis or sore hocks shares risk factors with contact dermatitis affecting the feet and often co-occurs. Urine scald, essentially a form of irritant contact dermatitis from prolonged urine contact, may indicate husbandry issues that could cause other contact reactions. Self-trauma from scratching or grooming irritated areas can create wounds that become independently problematic. In severe or prolonged cases, the stress and discomfort can contribute to decreased appetite and potentially GI stasis, which must be monitored for in any unwell rabbit.

Conditions with similar symptoms that must be differentiated from contact dermatitis include several common rabbit skin problems. Atopic dermatitis from environmental allergens causes similar inflammation but typically has more widespread distribution not limited to contact areas. Ectoparasites including fur mites and fleas cause itchy skin disease that may resemble contact reactions. Dermatophytosis or ringworm causes localized skin lesions with hair loss. Primary bacterial skin infections can appear similar to infected contact dermatitis. Pododermatitis has specific characteristics distinguishing it from simple contact irritation of the feet. The distribution pattern corresponding to areas of contact, combined with response to removing suspected irritants, helps differentiate contact dermatitis from these other conditions.

Potential complications from contact dermatitis are largely preventable with prompt identification and management. Secondary bacterial infection is the most common complication, developing when damaged skin allows bacteria to invade. Progression to pododermatitis can occur with ongoing foot irritation, potentially leading to serious infection of deeper tissues. Chronic skin changes may develop with prolonged untreated inflammation. Self-trauma from the rabbit's attempts to address itching can cause wounds. Decreased quality of life occurs with ongoing discomfort. Most seriously, decreased appetite from chronic discomfort can trigger GI stasis. All of these complications can be avoided by promptly identifying the cause of contact dermatitis and removing it from the rabbit's environment.