Ask Lafeber

Picking at wound

Should a topical feather picking spray, such as Cease or Bitter Apple be used (with a swab) on the feathers surrounding a wound to keep them from further damaging or picking at a wound/

Hi Francine,

The sprays that are intended to stop a bird from picking at feathers or a wound are usually ineffective. Once the wound is treated by the Vet, the Vet may decide to place a collar on your bird, which unfortunately is the only effective solution other than having the bird under constant observation. If you have had to administer emergency treatment, you will have to watch your bird and keep him from picking at the wound until you can get him to the Vet.

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda