Self-mutilation

Some rabbits are prone to self-mutilation, especially on the forefeet. :292 Self-trauma can be so severe that digits may be lost.

Symptoms

 * lesions and skin irritation
 * reddening of the skin
 * excessive licking
 * excessive "air boxing"
 * removal of digits

Causes
The cause of self-mutilation is not clear, and it is likely a number of conditions can result in this type of behavior.

Some conditions that have been considered as causes: :292-293
 * obsessive/compulsive behavior
 * hypersensitivity
 * mites
 * contact dermatitis
 * allergies
 * psychological disorder
 * genetic predisposition
 * intramuscular injections of ketamine and xylazine in the thigh near the tail (caudal)

A genetic predisposition for compulsive self-mutilation has been identified in one particular strain of laboratory rabbits. :293 The symptoms begin with a reddening of the skin on the front feet digits, and rabbits would lick their feet and "air box" frequently. There appeared to be a seasonal incidence in the late summer and autumn. :293

Symptoms due to intramuscular injections of ketamine and xylazine appeared 2–3 days post-injection, and while lameness was not observed, skin irrition was obvious, and the rabbits would shake their paw with every step. Post-mortem examination showed axonal degeneration in the sciatic nerve. :293

Many rabbits carry Cheyletiella parasitovorax and/or L. gibbus mites and hypersensitivity is a possibility. :292

Sometimes hay seeds or grass awns can be embedded in the skin and cause intense irritation. :293

Treatment
Treatment should always include a parasiticide such as ivermectin or selamectin in case of mites.

If the self-mutilation appears to be a psychological disorder, some methods of treatment are the following: :293
 * environmental enrichment such as exercising opportunities and a bonded companion.
 * neutering to prevent frustrations associated with finding a suitable nesting site or receptive companion.
 * a high fiber diet because chewing through hay or grazing grass can prevent boredom.
 * strategies such as scatter feeding (pellets are scattered through hay or another toy)
 * toys such as cardboard boxes or branches

For laboratory rabbits with a genetic predisposition for compulsive self-mutilation, treatment with haloperidal was successful. :293