How to Cut a Bird's Toenails

Wild birds keep their toenails trimmed by rubbing them against rough bark and tree limbs; domestic birds don't have this advantage. Overgrown nails on a domestic bird can cause walking problems and affect the bird's ability to grasp foo. Toenails also may cause damage to the delicate bottoms of the bird's feet if left too long. Learning how to cut your bird's nails at home saves you money on vet bills and keeps your bird healthy and well-groomed.

Things You'll Need

  • Bird, human or small dog nail clippers
  • Coagulating agent, such as styptic powder
  • Wet cotton swab
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Restrain your small bird by firmly but gently grasping the bird with its back and closed wings against the palm of your non-dominant hand. Hold the head between your index and middle finger while your ring and little finger softly close around the bird's body. Larger birds may require a second handler to gently hold the bird's head and legs while you trim the nails.

    • 2

      Grasp one of the bird's legs between your thumb and either your middle or ring finger, depending on which is more comfortable for you and your bird.

    • 3

      Extend one toe and trim off the sharp edge to just below where the "quick" -- the blood vein -- begins with your clippers. You will be able to see the vein clearly in white nails; in dark nails, trim just enough off the tip to dull the edge without nicking the bird.

    • 4

      Continue cutting the rest of the nails and release your bird back into its cage to rest and de-stress.