What is bumblefoot

A.� Bumblefoot is the common name for ulcerative pododermatitis, a bird’s version of athlete's foot. The skin on the underside of the foot becomes starved of oxygen and dies, becoming broken and susceptible to infection.

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Q.� Can bumblefoot be treated

A.� That depends on how chronic the condition is. If left long enough it can spread to the bones, leaving the bird with a pretty poor outlook, probably involving amputation. But if it is detected early enough and is restricted to soft tissue then things are more hopeful.

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Q.� What kind of treatment works

A.� The type of treatment used is determined by the severity of the infection. Various methods are employed, sometimes in combination: vitamin A injections, localised disinfectant creams and special diets.

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The problems with treating bumblefoot are related to the nature of birds’ feet. These dense, fibrous areas restrict blood flow, allowing the infection to progress while also stopping antibiotics getting through. The fact that the feet support the bird’s weight, another impediment to blood supply, exacerbates the situation.

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There are also alternative therapies that are a little more economical.

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Q.� How alternative

A.� Well they’re certainly non invasive and are all basically related to relieving pressure on the feet, usually involving padding.

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Q.� What causes bumblefoot

A.� The cause isn’t clear but often a number of factors are contributory including a Vitamin A deficiency and obesity, which affects mobility and therefore blood circulation.

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The bird’s environment is also influential. Keeping birds on rough and wet surfaces creates the kinds of conditions where the bird’s feet become soft and sore: perfect for encouraging bumblefoot.

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Q.� Is bumblefoot common

A.� Among birds it is one of the most common problems that affect their feet along with parasitic cysts and herpes virus.

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Q.� Can any bird catch bumblefoot

A.� Yes, although some species; ducks, swans, geese, are more prone than others.

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by Lisa Cardy