Canaries' claws require some basic care in order to keep healthy.
Canaries come in a variety of bright colors, making them a vibrant addition to any home. They are also a relatively easy bird to keep, which makes them a superb choice for a beginning bird enthusiast. However, like many pet birds, canaries can grow very long claws. These claws can be uncomfortable when you are holding your bird. They can also cause problems for the canary itself, if it catches a long claw on something. There are several ways you can keep your canary's claws short.
Instructions
Claw Trimming
1. Hold the canary firmly but gently in one hand. Take one of its feet between your thumb and ring finger or pointer finger. Don't squeeze the canary.
2. Look for the dark vein, called the "quick," in the canary's claw. It is usually easier to spot if you hold the bird's claw up to a light. Avoid cutting into the quick, as it will cause bleeding.
3. Hold the bird claw clippers in the other hand. Snip off only the tip of the claws, one at a time, avoiding the quick.
4. Let the first foot go and grasp the second foot, repeating the trimming process.
5. Praise and reward the bird as soon as you are finished. Because claw trimming can be very stressful for the bird, praise will make it feel more comfortable, making it easier for you the next time you want to trim the claws.
Rough Perches
6. Place some rough bird perches in the canary's cage. You can find many different styles of perches covered in rough material at most pet stores. Avoid sandpaper perches. Although some bird owners recommend them, they can cause severe damage to the canary's feet.
7. Offer your bird perches of several different sizes. This will not only make your bird more comfortable, but it can help to more effectively trim the nails. Different-sized perches also helps avoid health problems in your bird's feet.
8. Find or purchase apple wood branches with the bark still attached. If you find the branches outdoors, sanitize them thoroughly.
9. Place the apple wood branches in the cage. These can help reduce the length of the canary's claws.
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