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My bird's nail fell off. Will it grow back, and how can I help him?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Okay so mu birds nail recently fell off and u want to know if he is going to be okay and if it to "grow" back. He's eating talking and flying like he regurarly does and I didn't see tons of bloodloss for a bird, but then again I wasn't there when the incident happened. One thing that worries me is that he'll sometimes nibble at the foot his nail fell off and that after a prolonged period of time he'll lift his foot off. I guess what I'm asking is if he is gonna live and what I can do to help him

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 28th, 2017

Hi there. Sorry it has taken so long for someone to respond to your question.

My best guess without seeing him is that he will be just fine. I cannot tell you whether or not the nail will grow back for sure but MOST LIKELY it will. It depends on whether or not the nail bed was damaged. I'm sure he is nibbling at it and holding it up because it hurts. It's best for him not to nibble on it so he may need to wear a special collar made for birds to prevent him from doing that.

If the toe associated with that nail is swollen you should DEFINITELY take him to your vet for an examination. Be sure to use a vet that is used to treating birds.

It sounds like you are very worried and if that is the case, there is nothing wrong with taking him in for an exam as a precaution. It may help to put your mind at ease.

I hope this helps! Best of luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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