How to Strengthen a Parrot's Immune System

To make sure your parrot lives out its life span of between 30 and 70 years, you need to boost its immune system. You can do this by feeding your parrot a healthy diet rich in natural antioxidants. Natural antioxidants can come from fresh fruits, but mostly from fresh vegetables. You can feed your parrot practically any vegetable apart from avocado, particularly those rich in vitamin A. Another dietary source which will boost the immune system is pepper, which should also be included in your parrot's diet.

Things You'll Need

  • Broccoli
  • Peppers (cayenne, jalapeno, scotch bonnet)
  • Sprouts
  • Vitamin A-rich vegetables
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Instructions

    • 1

      Feed your parrot foods rich in vitamin A. Parrots need vitamin A, much more than vitamin C, for a healthy immune system. Fresh foods are preferable to vitamin supplements, as it is possible to overdose on supplements. Beta carotene is a precursor to vitamin A; with fresh foods the parrot's system will discard any excess beta carotene, ensuring it will get just enough vitamin A.

    • 2

      Feed your parrot broccoli. Broccoli is rich in antioxidants. Broccoli is also a good source of vitamin C and beta-carotene, and its nutrients help to build strong bones and prevent cataracts.

    • 3

      Add sprouts to your parrot's diet. Sprouts provide protein and help the parrot's body to cleanse itself. Sprouts are also rich in nutrients such as A, B, C, D and E, essential fatty acids, enzymes and minerals. These nutrients are all natural antioxidants which help to boost the immune system and protect against toxic chemical buildup.

    • 4

      Flavor your parrot's food with hot peppers, such as scotch bonnet and jalapenos. The peppers won't taste hot to the parrot, as they don't have salivary glands and can't feel the burning sensation. Peppers such as cayenne have vitamins like A, C and B-complex and calcium and iron. These peppers are digestive aids, and the vitamins they contain strengthen the immune system.