Re: Parrot toe problem

Clare Smith — Tue, 05 Aug 2014 13:28:07 GMT

Thanks for the quick response Marie - I was worried that there was probably more to it than just a tendon problem!

The owner said that the parents had not had a clutch for 3 years but not sure how many they have had in total. Diet includes seed (not sure which one) and various veg and fruit including dark green leafy veg and red and orange veg and fruit etc. the owners have had parrots for years without any problems and are quite experienced and sensible. I think x rays are likely to be the next step with this - we have no induction box here so I suspect I may have to refer it to the local exotics guys for that.

Re: Parrot toe problem

Marie Kubiak — Tue, 05 Aug 2014 12:23:47 GMT

A photo would be great if you can get one. Greys are very commonly affected with nutritional secondary hyperparathroidism and associated bone deformities so I would be concerned about this. Do you know what the parents are fed and how many clutches they have had (overall and this season)?. Minor changes in the tarsometatarsal shape can impinge on tendons or subtle rotations (usually tibiotarsal) can twist the foot and alter toe position. Nestbox trauma is not uncommon with the soft neonatal bones broken or bent with abnormal positioning, inexperienced parenting or early fledging attempts. Worth an xray to assess bone density and see at what level any changes lie. Primary tendon issues are uncommon and tendon changes usually related to altered position of the bones, or traumatic/infectious rupture of the tendon.

Taping the toe could help maintain normal function of the rest of the leg and improve mobility but may not solve the problem and pressure sores are not unusual with any dressing (assuming the bird tolerates it which is unusual in a young parrot!).

Marie