In addition to a high quality diet, one of our recommendations to new parents is to outfit their birds cages with a variety of perches to keep their feathered companion's feet in good health. Pododermatitis, or "bumblefoot" as it is more commonly known is a condition of the bottom of the feet defined in varying grades of severity from 1 - 7. (Hari Institute has a great article on Pododermatitis that's worth reading, Grooming and Health Assessment. Besides good nutrition (with sufficient Vitamin A & E) and appropriate perches, lack of exercise, and exposure to cigarette smoke can be the cause of bumblefoot.
In an article on Bumblefoot, Dr. Petra M Burgmann states, "Variety in perch diameter is essential, and can be provided by using natural branches from non-toxic insecticide-free trees. Sandpaper perches are like walking barefoot on a rough gravel road. The new abrasive perches intended to keep the bird's nails short should never be positioned so that they are the perch on which the bird spends the majority of its time. Instead, they should only be located where the bird will use them occasionally, such as where the treat dish is located." (Parrot Life; Volume 1, Number 1; page 46).Do your birds a favor and check the bottom of their feet. They will thank you for it :-)
Elena
I have had four prevue pet bird cage for five years now, and let me tell you, I wouldn't give them up for anything. At times I get mad at them because of all the mess they make, but I get over it. Yes they can make a real mess, especially on the floor.
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