Ask Lafeber

My bird having difficulty with cone of shame

My female cockatiel injured herself and lost her toenail, and suffered excessive blood loss. We took her to the vet once I was able to get transportation. The vet treated her wound, and put a cone of shame around her neck because she won’t stop picking on her wounds.

I brought her home and now im very worried because she struggles to move around, trips on her collar and can’t walk straight, shes also chirping softly too. Now I’m not sure if she will get used to it but she’s supposed to wear this for 2 weeks. Is this normal?

Hi,

The best thing to do is discuss this with your Vet. A bird does have to adjust, but most accept the collar once they figure out they can’t get it off. Some birds won’t accept a collar. Your bird needs to be able to eat and drink  and walk. Sometimes the vet needs to adjust the collar.

Take care,

Brenda