Bumblefoot (inflammation of the sole of the foot) in falcons
Other names: Sidda (Saudi falconers' glossary: a disease of the underside of the foot, medium)، Sumar، Bumblefoot، Leg swelling، Foot inflammation، Foot abscess
Symptoms
- Redness or a smooth shiny spot on the sole of the foot (grade 1)
- Swelling and a skin-penetrating wound with a black scab (grade 2)
- Deformity of the foot or toes, pus and lameness (grade 3)
- The bird stands on one leg or refuses to grip
Diagnosis
Examine both feet weekly, grade the lesion, radiograph if bone involvement is suspected, culture and sensitivity.
Treatment
Early grades: adjust the perches, padding and weight + topical antiseptic (povidone iodine). Advanced grades: surgical cleaning and drainage of pus, an antibiotic according to culture, protective bandages (ball bandage). Treatment must be under the supervision of a veterinarian specialised in birds of prey; doses are determined by weight, species and examination results.
Prevention
Suitable perches with varied surfaces (AstroTurf/artificial stone), avoid rough and sharp surfaces, correctly sized jesses, prevent obesity, trim the talons if they wound the foot, and check the healthy foot if the bird is limping.
Season
Year-round; more during the moult (little movement and weight gain), an estimate.
Treatment and doses are decided by an avian vet after an exam; Zajel does not publish doses.