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!

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.