Rabbits are known for having a very delicate skeleton. Fractures of the hind legs aren’t uncommon and may occur without any known trauma. Rabbits have very strong muscles for jumping and unfortunately can easily kick hard enough to break their own legs. Fractures can also occur secondary to infection or tumors associated with the bones. Spinal injuries are also fairly common in rabbits so it is important to differentiate those from leg fractures.
Rabbits with acute onset lameness that is often non-weight bearing, the distal portion of their leg dangling in the very wrong direction, severe swelling associated with the lg or groin areas, and bruising should be evaluated immediately by your veterinarian for possible leg fractures.
Following a thorough physical examination, your veterinarian will recommend radiographs to not only confirm the presence of the facture but to characterize it in order to determine the best course of action for repair. A complete blood count and serum biochemistry panel may also be recommended for evaluate the overall health of the patient.
Treatment recommendations will depend on location as well as severity of displacement and number of fragments. Splinting, pain control, and cage rest is an option for less severe fractures. Surgical repair may be necessary for some fractures. If multiple fracture fragments or the leg bones have been obliterated, amputation should be considered.
The prognosis for recovery is good if traumatically induced, fair if bacterial depending on the source of infection, and poor if caused by a tumor.
Splints should be rechecked and bandaging refreshed by your veterinarian every 7-14 days. Recheck radiographs should be performed in 4-6 weeks to assure healing prior to splint removal. Sutures should be removed by appointment in 10-14 days with surgical cases.
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