Bumblefoot (ulcerative pododermatitis)

[lpolliard]

Looks like Chico may have the beginnings of bumblefoot. He has a red spot on the bottom of each foot where most of the pressure would rest. This has just developed over the last few days. He sits primarily on three different perches and has done so for months with no symptoms. He has a day cage with a concrete pedi-perch (40%), a sleeping cage with a manzanita branch (40%) and a PVC perch wrapped with 5/16th inch cord (10%). I will keep and eye on the area and if it gets worse I will replace the pedi-perch. Does anyone know of a treatment I might apply to the red spots so they don't worsen? If the red spots get worst then a vet visit will be in order.

 

[lpolliard]

What do you think about warm salt water foot baths?

 

[Pedro]

Hope this link will help. But with the different perches you have for him that may not be the problem at all. Maybe some fresh tree branches in the cage will help.

Bumble Foot: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

 

[MonicaMc]

You might try replacing the rough perches with rope perches... however, 'bumblefoot' can also be caused by dietary things... and I know eclectus can be sensitive to what they eat.


Chico does appear to have a thickened beak, so I am curious to know if he's ever been to an avian vet for a blood panel?

 

[lpolliard]

Good idea, I might try switching the rope perch in his day cage to the higher position.

I have noted Chico's beak seems overgrown. I believe the Vet also commented on it but did not recommend any changes.
Blood panel was okay.

The only recent dietary change has been pomegranate as it is in season.

 

[MonicaMc]

Never heard pomegranate to be a problem!

I've often read that it's best to place grooming perches in a spot that a bird frequents but does not sit at for long periods of time... such as at the food/water dishes, or between two separate perches - but never use it as the highest perch/sleeping perch.

Some grooming perches will have two smooth sides and two rough sides... places correctly, the nails will hit the rough sides and the feet will be on the smooth part.


Still, wouldn't hurt to have extra rope perches! And glad to hear the blood panel was good!