Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My bird has a leg injury and tail damage. Should I take her to a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 5 months old

Hi, I have two IRN's, one male one female, we have had the female for over 3years now and we introduced her to a friend about 4months ago. The only problem is he is a little too interested and she gets quite frustrated and tries to escape. I came home from work two days ago and noticed that she had a messed up tail like she had fallen from her perch and she's also got some kind of muscle spasm in her left leg. I don't think she's in pain. But it's annoying her. Can you help? I'm getting worried.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 23rd, 2018

Hello! If your female bird is trying to escape your male bird, I would recommend keeping them separated. Frustrated and scared birds often hurt themselves attempting to escape situations. When a bird holds up their leg, it is the equivalent of a human limping and is a sign of pain. I would recommend taking her into be seen by an avian vet. They will likely recommend x-rays. The x-rays will ensure that she has no broken bones, as well as looking at her abdominal organs. Abdominal problems are a common cause of leg issues in birds because their abdominal organs are on top of their sciatic (leg) nerve. They will likely recommend an anti-inflammatory to help with her pain and make other treatment recommendations based off of x-rays and physical exam. I hope this helps! Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's eye looks strange but doesn't seem to hurt. What's wrong?
Is your pet's eye issue painless? A DVM explains potential corneal trauma or scratch. Immediate vet care is crucial to save their eye. Get expert advice now!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my 5-week-old chick struggling to walk with splayed legs?
Is your 5-week silkie chick struggling to walk, with splayed legs & curled feet? A board-certified vet explains possible causes like Mareks and what to do next.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog rubs belly & scratches face, no fleas. Could it be allergies?
Does your dog rub her belly and scratch her face without fleas? A certified vet discusses possible causes like allergies, infection, or mites. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored