Do Parakeets Need to Have Their Claws Trimmed?

If a parakeet's claws or nail are left too long, they become inconvenient for the bird, prevent it from getting around and may cause injury. In the wild, a parakeet keeps its nails short by wearing them down on rocks or branches. It is possible for a pet parakeet, if given the correct resources, to trim its own claws without the owner. However, if the bird does not trim on its own, the owner can trim the bird's nails, either with clippers or by filing the nails on a regular basis.

  1. Reason for Trimming

    • When a parakeet's nails become too long they form a hook shape and can snag on items such as carpets, blankets or wires. When the nail is hooked on one of these items, the parakeet is likely to panic and begin flailing to free itself. In this flailing, the bird is prone to injuries, particularly broken bones.

    Before Trimming

    • If the owner does choose to trim, it is best to have a helper. One person should hold the bird in a towel or blanket to keep it from flailing while the other person clips the nails. The claws may be trimmed with either bird clippers or human nail clippers.

    The Quick

    • When trimming or filing a bird's nails the owner must be aware of the placement of the quick and use precaution to avoid cutting it. Most birds have a clear nail, making it easy to find the quick --- it is the reddish line at the part of the nail closest to the bird's body. Allow some space between where the quick stops and the nail is clipped. Only cut the top of the bird's nail If the bird has a gray nail or the quick cannot be seen for any other reason. It is only the dead part of the nail that needs to be clipped or filed.

    What to Do with a cut Quick

    • If the quick is accidentally cut, apply pressure to the bleeding with a cloth for several moments. If the bleeding continues, call the vet. Applying styptic powder to the bleeding may also help stop the bleeding. Some sites recommend applying Quick Stop to the cut but Quick Stop can cause soft tissue damage.