
This condition can be caused by stress, boredom, itching from parasites, or a bacterial infection.

If you suspect your bird may be sick, take it to your avian vet immediately. Additionally, notice if your bird appears suddenly more aggressive, which might mean it's in pain. Watch for changes in your bird's appearance, as well as inactivity. This includes feather plucking, poor beak or feather health, lameness, or obesity. Visit the vet if you notice signs of poor health in your bird. However, your bird's nails might not get as much wear as a wild bird, meaning its nails need a trimming. Your bird will naturally wear down its nails through clutching perches, playing with toys, and rubbing their claws on surfaces.

Your vet can trim the nails if you're not comfortable doing it.You can find a powdered clotting agent at a pet store or online. If you're trimming your bird's nails at home, buy a powdered clotting agent first, which you can apply to the bird's nail if you accidentally cut the quick.

If you can't find a pair made for birds, it's okay to use one made for dogs and cats. You can find nail clippers at your local pet store or online.Then, use a guillotine-style clipper to cut of the end of the nail, avoiding the quick. Next, identify the nail quick by finding the thin pink vein that runs through the nail. Take your bird out of its cage and ask someone to hold it between their hands. Trim your cockatoo's nails every 6 months at home or the vet's office.
