List of Foods for a Parakeet

Parakeet is the name given to all long-tailed parrots originating from Australia with the word believed to have come from the Aboriginal language. They are colorful birds that belong to the parrot family. They make excellent pets for people of all ages and can be fed a variety of easily found and inexpensive foods.

  1. Fruits and Vegetables

    • Just like humans, parakeets need fruit and vegetables in their diet to receive essential minerals and vitamins for their health and development. It is recommended that you feed your parakeet ½ cup of fresh vegetables and/or fruit per day. These include grapes, bananas, melons and broccoli. Spinach, which has high levels of iron and vitamins A and C, is another important vegetable.

    Corn

    • Although parakeets are not big meat eaters they need protein daily to function and grow. Instead of meat feed them raw or cooked corn. Corn contains high levels of protein and is cheaper than certain types of meat. Raw and cooked meats such as tuna also provides protein.

    Rice

    • Many parakeet owners prefer to feed their birds ready-made bird food mixes, but if you would rather feed them natural and fresh ingredients, rice is another food that will be well received. However, don't rely on rice as a main staple of your pet's diet, as it lacks many nutrients and can result in an overweight bird.

    Peanut Butter

    • Parakeets like the taste of peanut butter, and it's often used as a treat. Do not give your parakeet peanut butter on its own, however, as it can cause birds to choke. Instead, serve peanut butter with cornmeal or a stick of celery. The additional ingredient will make the peanut butter easier to swallow and adds variety to the treat.