Guinea Pig Bacterial Pododermatitis Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Pododermatitis (commonly called "bumblefoot" or "sore hocks") is a painful inflammatory and infectious condition affecting the plantar and palmar surfaces of guinea pig feet. This condition represents one of the most common reasons guinea pigs present to veterinary practices and is frequently tested on the NAVLE due to its clinical significance, multisystemic implications, and strong association with husbandry-related factors.

Guinea pigs are particularly susceptible to pododermatitis because, unlike rabbits, they lack protective fur on the plantar surfaces of their feet. The condition begins as pressure-induced inflammation but commonly progresses to bacterial infection, typically with Staphylococcus aureus. Without appropriate treatment, infection can extend to tendons and bones, resulting in osteomyelitis with a guarded to poor prognosis.

Etiology and Pathophysiology

Primary Causative Agents

Staphylococcus aureus is the most commonly isolated pathogen in guinea pig pododermatitis. This gram-positive, coagulase-positive bacterium is ubiquitous in the environment and enters through skin abrasions or wounds on the footpad. Transmission occurs primarily through direct contact, and interspecies transmission of S. aureus has been documented.