Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 11/24/2007

Question
My budgie has one foot and I have all the perches and the platforms padded. She is however developing a red spot on her heal that I suspect is going to turn into a sore. What can I do to stop sores developing on the feet of my budgie.

Answer
Hi, Joyce,

You don't really need to pad the perches and platforms.  Your bird can get along just fine with 1 foot, as long as she has all her toes on this foot.  This red area will probably turn into a calus (extra skin in this area).  With 1 foot that will get used constantly, there's really no way around this.  I'm wondering how she is getting a red spot on her "heal" if she has 4 toes, i.e., is she "leaning" back on her heal?  She should be perching normally on her perches with 1 foot.  Some birds with 1 foot will lay down versus leaning back on her heal.  You may want to try a Cozy Hut or something similar that your bird can lay in or give her a temporary break during the day by being able to have the Hut "prop" her up on the sides for a little relief.  Otherwise, you can try using antibiotic cream on the red area to help keep the area from getting worse.  A certified avian vet may be able to offer more suggestions.  You want to be sure any perches being used allow the bird to grasp firmly, i.e., I wouldn't recommend using dowel rods or anything like this that is smooth.  Your bird needs perches, etc., she can firmly get a hold on with 1 foot.  If she starts falling or slipping from things, she may develop a fear of perches, etc.  Make sure any padding doesn't result in this occurring.

Chrys