Finding The Right Vet

Pet birds can be great companions, but dogs and cats can view them as toys or even prey. Even with careful attention, your pet bird may become the victim of a bite or attack. Providing the right emergency care will help to keep your pet healthy. Here are a few things to remember if your bird is bitten by another pet.

Move The Bird To A Calm Setting

A cat or dog attack can be traumatic and stressful for a bird. Quietly move it to a separate room wrapped in a towel or blanket. This will help to keep the bird calm and warm. Be sure to keep other pets out of the room while you inspect the injuries and care for the bird. Once you have determined that it is in a safe space, you can begin to assess any injuries to determine the next steps.

Perform An Examination

Look for any signs of broken bones in the wings, body and legs. If you notice severe bleeding or any potentially broken bones, take the bird to an emergency veterinarian right away. For bleeding, apply pressure to the wound with a gauze pad, but be careful not to press so hard that you restrict the bird's breathing. If the bird has only minor cuts or scratches, you can treat them by cleaning them with antiseptic and applying antibiotic ointment to the scratches. Be sure to place a bandage around the wounds to keep the bird from scratching them.

When To Call An Emergency Veterinarian

Outside of the obvious bleeding or broken bones, there are a few other symptoms that may require immediate attention. If you notice the bird is having difficulty breathing, take it to the emergency vet right away. Some birds may experience shock after a traumatic injury. Symptoms might include the bird not moving or having trouble keeping its eyes open. Breathing problems can also be a result of shock. If you suspect your bird is in shock, call your emergency veterinarian for instructions on how to care for the bird and whether or not to bring it in for an examination.

Once you have assessed your bird's condition and have provided the necessary first aid, be sure to check the pet that bit the bird. The cat or dog may have also been injured in the attack and may also need first aid. Be sure to keep the pets separated until you can ensure the bird's safety.

Contact a clinic like Northside Emergency Pet Clinic for more information.