How to Treat a Bleeding Injury to a Cockatiel's Foot

When your cockatiel has a bleeding foot, rapid and proper treatment is essential to his recovery. Even though bleeding to death isn't common in birds, the New York Birds' Parrot Advice website states that it's not considered safe for your feathery companion to lose more than 10 percent of his blood. Because your cockatiel's feet can get injured unexpectedly, bird parents must familiarize themselves with appropriate first aid care.

  1. Preparation

    • Prior to treating your cockatiel's bleeding wound, wash your hands with soap and water to limit the spread of bacteria. Next, place your avian first aid kit within hand's reach so you don't have to leave your cockatiel unattended. To keep your bird from flapping his wings, have a helper hold him in a towel. Remain calm. If you panic, your bird may sense it, his blood pressure may rise and his blood loss can increase.

    Treating the Injury

    • To get a good view of the wound and to wash away bacteria and dirt, irrigate it with antiseptic solution. Fill a syringe with the solution and wash your cockatiel's bleeding foot injury with it. Then lightly blot the area around the wound with sterile gauze or a clean cloth. If the bleeding stopped, apply antibiotic ointment and lightly cover the area with a bandage. Keep your bird in a quiet area so you can observe him.

    Stopping the Bleeding

    • If the bleeding doesn't stop, apply pressure to the wound for 2 minutes with a clean cloth or sterile gauze. Add a dab of aloe vera gel to help minimize pain from stinging. To stop the bleeding, dip the wound in a small bowl with styptic powder. Don't place a bandage over the styptic powder -- leave it exposed. Flour or cornstarch can also be used to stop the bleeding. Place your bird in a quiet area and check on him frequently. If you're unable to stop your bird companion's bleeding, contact your veterinarian immediately while keeping pressure on the wound.

    First Aid Kit Essentials

    • Cockatiel caretakers must always keep a first aid kit in the room that houses the bird. You can put together your own first aid kit or purchase a kit at your local pet store. The avian first aid kit should include styptic powder, antiseptic ointment, sterile gauze, scissors and bandages, as well as your veterinarian's contact information.