Foods from the Pantry

Many parrots unnecessarily suffer nutritional deficiencies. As a result, they also suffer behavior problems, health problems and a host of other issues associated with mental illness that usually accompanies the two. Try as they may, commercial diets are no replacement for fresh fruits, vegetables and grains that your bird is instinctively designed to ingest. Many birds still suffer egg binding problems, aggressive behavior (too much protein) and feather loss because they are deficient in calcium and vitamins A, E and D.

Foods that are bursting with calcium and vitamins A, E, D are no further than your pantry.

Here is a list of foods that have tremendous nutritional benefits for your parrot that are common in many household pantries:

Maple/pecan instant oatmeal

Apples and cinnamon instant cream of wheat

Diced bits of fruit with regular oatmeal or cream of wheat

Diced fruit and toast with a bit of no-salt butter or jelly on top

Orange juice with calcium

Poached egg white

Nonfat mango or pineapple fruit yogurt

Dry cereal and unsalted snack mix

Cranberry sauce

No salt vegetable stew

Cooked pinto beans

Mexican cornbread

Do not feed parrots avocados, onions, garlic, chocolate, salt, or artificial sweeteners. Nevertheless, have fun and experiment with foods your parrot sees you eat that are safe for him. He will want to enjoy in the communal feeding experience that he is designed to expect from other flock members.

Ask your avian vet about any foods you are hesitant about feeding and never feed oily, salty or deep fried foods to prevent liver failure and obesity.

Make sure all fruits are ripe and starchy foods such as potatoes are cooked and cooled before serving.