Does anyone have a bird with arthritic feet?

[MiniMama]

If so, what are you doing for treatment/husbandry modifications? I"m working with and Avian vet (blood work is back tomorrow), but want to see what all the options are. Thanks!

[Eliza]

This link might have information that could be helpful re: cage set-up and such:

Special_Abled_Birds

[birdlover912]

I don't have any birds with arthritic feet, but two of my birds, Lady and Penny, have deformed feet. Because of this, I have metal landings in their cage so they can keep their balance better, sturdy rope perches, and lots of natural branches. I feel that the natural branches provide more grip than the standard dowels. They each have a smallish cement perch in their cages because these are highly grip-able as well (I keep them down lower in the cage).

I've noticed that Lady and Penny seem to favor perches with larger diameters, especially rope ones. When they sit on these, their feet are only slightly curved; it's almost like they are standing on a solid surface. I think the muscles in their feet get tired of gripping onto smaller perches--maybe that's why they prefer the thicker ones.

When setting up their cages, I try to keep the toys hanging above the perches and not dangling against the sides of the cage. That way they can easily climb on the bars of the cage and not bump into toys.

[MiniMama]

Thanks! I'm trying to experiment with different perches for her, so this gives me some ideas (I also checked out the website and got some good ideas too!)

[Lori~D]

I have not had Calypso Diagnosed professionally but with the way (or things on) which he chooses to sit have made me figure so. He is 40 and not had the "perfect" life so its highly possible. I noticed when he sleeps in our room ona homemeade tstand he got to start perching on the water dish with his feet stretched all the way across the top. I f was anywhere any wider flat surface would be chosen during rest over say a round perch. I have now made a modified sleeping perch for him with a wide flat surface like asection of two by four wrapped in soft fleece. He has a choice and goes right to that.

[Monica]

Noel was once prescribed Metacam, however it was stopped when her meds had to be changed (Metacam isn't necessarily good for the organs). However, while she was on it, I did see improvement in her grip.
METACAM. FEEL GOOD! - WELCOME TO METACAM.US

She's currently getting black cherry juice, which is supposedly good for arthritis, but I can't say I've noticed a difference like that which was seen with Metacam. I have noticed other benefits of using the black cherry juice, however!
Lakewood Juices