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My bird ate cactus, had breathing issues, now her paw is numb. Why?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Cockatiel | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 1 month old

My bird experienced breathing issues after ingesting cactus. Brought her to a vet clinic who put her under oxygen and did an xray and endoscopy. Didn't find why she wasnt breathing properly but did remove a few cactus pieces and jelly. She was breathing better after the anesthesia but in the morning her whole right paw was not functioning properly. No symptoms of pain, inflammation, or infection, just dragging it along as if it was numb. Any idea why and what to do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jessica Desrosiers

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on October 9, 2019

It would be hard to say. It may be that the cactus was toxic and so ingesting it is causing problems, or there is a cactus piece stuck in the foot causing pain. If she is unable to use the foot or perch on it, I would bring her back to the vet for examination and potential bloodwork to rule out issues. In the meantime, keeping her in a warm hospital cage with low or no perches and soft bedding along with food/water dishes that can be easily climbed in and out of can help make things more comfortable.
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