How to Clip/Trim a Parakeet's Nails

A parakeets claws, if not kept clipped, can quickly get out of hand. If they get too long, they can begin to curl downward, and grow into the bird's feet, causing him severe pain and discomfort. That is why it's very important to stay on top of your parakeets claws. Some may prefer to take their bird to a professional, but I've found that it's much quicker and cheaper to do it at home. Here's how.

1. You will need a washcloth. This will be used to help you hold the parakeet. It will protect you from being bitten, and it will help to keep the parakeet calm.

2. You will need a pair of clippers. If you don't already have these, they can be found at any pet store. However, they are much cheaper online. I have included a link below for you to purchase from Amazon.

3. You may need a helper. While it's not absolutely necessary, it will be a great help to have someone else hold the parakeet while you clip his claws. Eventually, you will learn to do it by yourself, but for now it's wise to have some help.

Before you begin clipping your parakeets claws, you will need to secure him safely and comfortably in a washcloth. To do this, place a clean washcloth over your parakeet, and grab him around his back with your hand. The picture on the right demonstrates how you should be holding him. Make sure that his wings are tucked in at his sides; if they are spread out and you are attempting to secure him in this position, he could be injured. You do not need to squeeze him, just hold him in place very gently. As long as he can't spread his wings, he cannot go anywhere.

*Note: he will probably squawk a lot. This does not mean you are hurting him, as long as you aren't squeezing too hard. He is likely in distress. My parakeet enjoys it when I sing with him, so I use this method while clipping his claws, it helps keep him calm. Speak or sing to your bird to help him feel more secure.

Now it's time to start clipping. Before you clip each nail, it's important that you carefully examine it, and locate the vein. Parakeets have veins that run about halfway through the upper portion of their claws. It will look like a red line, and should be clearly visible through light colored claws. You should avoid cutting the vein (If you do, it will cause bleeding. Stop what you're doing, and hold the washcloth over the affected claw until the bleeding stops. Then proceed with the others). Just place the tip of the claw into the center of the clippers, and squeeze the handles together. While this may scare your parakeet, don't worry, he isn't being hurt.

After you've clipped all of your parakeet's claws, you're finished! Simply release him from your grasp. He will recover very quickly from any stress he may have been experiencing just moments ago. You will need to repeat this process every time you notice his claws getting too long. I have to clip my parakeets claws every couple of months, or so. It just depends on how fast they grow, and how well they are being filed down naturally between clippings. If this seemed a little bit scary, don't worry. It will get easier every time you try, as you will get more comfortable with the process, and more confident that you won't hurt your parakeet. Just keep at it. If you have any questions or run into any problems, give your local veterinarian a call for some advice. Also, shoot me an email. I've done this hundreds of times and would be happy to answer any questions you may have. Good luck!