My rat has bumblefoot. How can I treat swelling and pain at home?

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!

Poor Dobby! While an abscess is definitely likely, especially if there is bleeding and discharge in the area, other things such as a growth may be to blame. The abscess may be caused by an infected wound or a pressure sore. It is a pretty painful condition that can spread to the underlying bone. It would be best to have Dobby looked at by a vet who can prescribe oral antibiotics and pain medication for him as soon as possible. I would be happy to answer any other questions you may have or look at photos of Dobby's foot!

Thanks for reaching out about Calypso and including a photo. Don't believe this is bumble foot as that usually affects weight bearing areas. More likely an inflamed joint (previous dislocation) or an infection. Does it seem painful? Can you flex the toe? Anti-inflammatories or antibiotics could help the situation. If really painful and effecting walking, an amputation of the digit might give the best prognosis. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Sunapana but we are unable (illegal) to prescribe or recommend a specific treatment without a physical examination. Epsom salt foot soaks can help decrease inflammation but agree that systemic antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications are needed. Providing clean padded perches can decrease pressure on the lesions. Diets deficient in vitamin A can be a factor as if Sunapana is overweight. A veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

Epsom salt soaks of the affected foot as well as treating any open wounds and keeping the area clean and free of debris may help with minor infections, however if the foot does not recover, worsens, or Baby blue is showing other signs of illness, it is best to seek veterinary care in person so the area can be properly cleaned, drained, and antibiotics or other treatments started.

Just make sure to keep an eye on it and try to clean it very gently at least once a day with warm water and a mild soap, you can use a gauze pad to do this. Dry it carefully and then apply your topical treatment. However, if this stresses him out too much, just continue as you have been doing. Make sure his toes stay pink and warm and he keeps getting better. If anything at all changes for the worse, swelling, weeping wound, loss of appetite or activity level, if his toes change color or get cold, get him back in to see your vet right away. It sounds like you're doing a good job caring for his injury.

If you can, I would suggest you take Tofu to a veterinarian for an exam and possible x-ray. If the leg/foot is broken they may be able to splint it to help it heal. Vets have medications they can dispense for the pain and swelling. There are no over the counter medications I can recommend you give him. I am not sure any are safe to give and even if they were, it would be impossible to get a correct dosage for a mouse that small. The only recommendation I have other than taking him to the vet is to try and soak the affected leg in an epsom salt solution (~5 minutes 2-3 times a day). Hope this helps. Best wishes.