Rex problem

[moonchild]

My rex is having problems with sore hocks. This happened last year around this time. Do most rex's have this problem or is mine just unlucky?

[velvetrabbit]

Yes, mini rex and rex are very prone to sore hocks. What kind of cage bottom have you got? If it's a wire cage, try adding some drywall or some wood (be careful of what kind of wood you use!) in a corner that is not used as the bathroom. If it's a plastic bottom and you use shavings, try a litterbox (which will subsequently be used as a bed) to provide a change of surface for the feet.

[moonchild]

I have a wood bottom cage but right now I have everything covered with soft hay. I think I will have to keep him in the house while the weather is hot. He doesn't have room to run and play in the house, so I will take him outside during the coolest parts of the day. I gave him a fan and jugs of ice to cool him down, but I think all the moisture from the ice just made him worse.