Bleeding Cockatiel

Question
Dianna:

My mothers cockatiel Nicky, has recently started picking at her feet to the point where she bleeds. What do you think is causing the behavior, what should we do when she bleeds and how can we prevent her from hurting herself?

Thanks for your help.

Ed  

Answer
Hello Ed.  Thank you for your post.
It sounds like Nicky has a problem with possibly a foot fungus that is really irritating her.  What kinds of perches/bedding is in her cage?
Wooden perches, if they are not kept clean, can collect bacteria and spread it to birds.  The lining on her cage may be irritating her feet too.
Your best bet is to take her into a Certified Avian vet to find out for sure what the problem is and get it corrected.  There may be something else going on with the bird.
When she bleeds, you can try using a little bit of baking flour or get some Quick Stop.
Nicky may have to be collard for awhile, but only an Avian Vet can determine that for sure.

Good luck and God Bless.
Dianna