Can I Use Sand Paper Instead of Cutting My Bird's Nails?

Sandpaper is an alternative to cutting a bird's nails with clipper or scissors, although which method is best depends largely on a bird's temperament. Shy birds do not like the noise from nail sanders. Aggressive birds may bite you if you attempt to trim their nails with clippers or scissors.

  1. Perches

    • Sandpaper-covered perches are one possible way to keep nails trimmed. The birdcage should also include other types of perches to avoid foot irritation from constant use of the sandpaper-covered perch. Birds may choose not to use a sandpaper-covered perch.

    Nail Sanders

    • Nail sanders are battery-operated devices. They have a sandpaper disc and a shield to protect the bird's foot. Nail sanders have the advantage of targeting just the sharp tip off of the nail, not the entire foot.

    Considerations

    • Sandpaper has one safety advantage over nail clippers or scissors. When using clippers or scissors, you run the risk of cutting into the bird's "quick," the blood vessel that runs partway down the nail. Cutting the quick can cause discomfort and bleeding.