How to Cut Finch Nails

Nail clipping is sometimes necessary to ensure the health and safety of your finches. If the nails become too long or twisted, they could cause the bird to become caught on a perch, nest, rope or other items within the cage. The bird could become injured as he attempts to free himself. Pay attention to the birds and clip their nails if necessary.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Catch the bird that needs a trimming. This could be the hardest part of nail trimming. Finches are active and usually hard to capture.
2. Hold the bird in your left hand with its backside next to your palm. Make sure its head is secure between the index and middle finger of your left hand.
3. Turn the bird with its belly face up. Make sure to comfort the bird as you go in, and attempt to keep it calm.
4. Use your right hand to gently grab one of the bird's legs, and then place the leg in between the thumb and index finger on your left hand (the one holding the bird).
5. Separate the toes. The finch may try to curl its toes into a ball, but it is important to keep them stretched and separated to clearly see what you are trimming.
6. Place the nail clippers (same as those used on human nails) in your right hand and determine where you need to cut on the nail. If you bird has light-colored nails, it may be possible to see the quick (blood supply in the nail). Trim as close to the quick as possible without cutting it. If the bird has dark nails, you may not be able to see the quick. If this is the case, you will have to guess where to cut. The vein usually runs about 1/4 of an inch in to the claw. Always make them a little longer just to be safe.
7. Make the cut quickly and try to avoid jagged hangnails. Repeat the cuts for each nail.

Tips & Warnings

• If you feel uncomfortable clipping the nails, have your veterinarian demonstrate for you.
• Overgrown nails are more common in species that naturally have long, hard claws. This includes Weavers, Mannikins and Munias. You should also pay close attention to the nails if you have Waxbills. Their nails may become overgrown because they grow quickly.
• Catching a finch can be difficult especially those kept in an aviary. Visit finchaviary.com for helpful tips on catching a finch in an aviary (see Resources below).
• The bird's side nails can be cut shorter than the others. The ones found in the front and back should be cut leaving extra length.
• Be careful not to cut the quick found in the nails. This will cause bleeding. Too much blood loss can cause the finch to go into shock. Always have the necessary remedies nearby to treat the nail if the quick is cut. A styptic powder, styptic gel or normal baking flour can be used to stop the bleeding. If using the powder or flour, place the bleeding toe in the powder until it clots around the wound. The gel can be placed on the nail to also create a clot. Visit The Pet Place to purchase the styptic powder or gel (see Resources below).