Toe troubles!

I adopted my first Indian Ringneck just this past sunday and I thought I noticed this at the facility, but I'm definitely noticing now that on his right leg, the long back toe is a bit swollen and bruised at the joint that meets the "ankle" of the bird.

He doesn't seem to favor it, I think he does occasionally.. but then he just goes to groom himself with it. Mostly I feel his behavior is telling me it's sore. It won't grip anything, he doesn't like to be on flat surfaces, and doesn't like stepping up.

I've only had him for a few days, but I feel this behavior is really about the toe. I'm a vet tech, I don't really think a vet will do me any good unless it looks like he will lose the toe, which it doesn't at all. So do people at home splint them in any way or just give their bird space and let it heal on it's own?

I stay at home all day so all I want is his attention, and he's very affectionate, but something tells me I just need to let him mostly sit on his gym for a few weeks when he's out of his cage until it looks like he's using his toe again.

An info or experiences would be great to share, thanks!

Hey and welcome. Does it feel hot? Infections will sometimes feel warmer than surrounding areas. can you inspect it for cut or reddness ? If you feel there's something wrong, there probably is. I'd keep a close eye on it.

Not red or hot, just a little discolored and won't bend it around anything. If it seemed infected I definitely would make an appointment for him!

If you have not taken your new IRN to the Avian Vet yet you need too ASAP. Anytime you adopt or purchase a new bird one of the first things that should happen is the bird should be examined by a vet to ensure there are no hidden diseases or general sickness'.

He was taken to a vet just prior to my adoption. Clean bill of health.

You may want to talk to the vet who did the examination then. If it wasn't noticed or really checked over, it would be worth it to have it checked out anyway.

If the toe is painful, the vet can give medications to help the pain, and if it's swollen, can give medications to reduce swelling. Arthritis and gout may also effect the feet.

Happy to say the swelling and bruising is significantly better in a matter of days and he's stepping up real nice now! I think He'll be just fine, but I'm still goon keep my eye on him =) He cuddles with us every night, shouldn't be an issue.

Thanks guys!