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Have you ever heard of ‘Bumblefoot’?

‘Bumblefoot’ or (Pododermatitis as it is known in medical terms) is a condition which affects alot of caged (and some aviary) birds. Birds develop pressure sores on their feet which start out as pinkish, smooth and somewhat shiny looking patches of swollen skin and can eventually turn into open sores that may become infected by bacteria. This condition is caused by constant pressure being applied to the same part of the bird’s foot.

For example, if we humans wear a pair of shoes that hurt our feet in a specific place – after a period of time (if we continue to wear mainly this pair of shoes only), we develop a corn or hardened skin on that pressure point. The same principle applies to birds – if their cage only contains perches of one certain size or diameter – then there is constant pressure on the exact same points of their feet and bumblefoot can develop.

In the wild, tree-perching birds have the choice of which parts of a branch they wish to perch upon – be it a tiny little twig or a thicker branch, therefore they do not tend to develop ‘bumblefoot’. We as avi-culturalists and pet owners can help prevent this condition in our birds by simply offering perches of differing sizes (diameter) or even better, natural perching material such as apple and plum tree branches. Our budgies absolutely love the plum tree branches that we provide them in the aviary and can be seen happily stripping the bark from the tree – so not only are the branches good for their feet, but they also provide a source of entertainment!! Make sure you use only fruit tree branches that have not been sprayed – (we stick to apple and plum).

Check your bird’s feet regularly so that you can learn to spot ‘Bumblefoot in it’s early stages. A simple change of perches can work wonders (as we have learnt from our own personal experience with our Indian Ringneck: ‘Cappy’). If ‘bumblefoot’ develops into open sores – you may need to visit your vet for treatment.