- A high-quality seed mix that is specifically formulated for cockatiels. This should make up the majority of your cockatiel's diet. Look for a seed mix that contains a variety of seeds, such as millet, canary seed, oats, and sunflower seeds. Avoid seed mixes that contain a lot of fillers, such as corn and wheat.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables. Cockatiels love fresh fruits and vegetables, and they are an important source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Offer your cockatiel a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as apples, oranges, bananas, grapes, carrots, broccoli, and spinach. Make sure to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before giving them to your cockatiel.
- A small amount of pellets. Pellets are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. They can be offered to your cockatiel as a supplement to their seed mix.
- Fresh water. Fresh water should always be available to your cockatiel. Make sure to change the water daily.
In addition to these staple foods, you can also offer your cockatiel a variety of treats, such as:
- Sprouted seeds are a healthy and nutritious treat for cockatiels. You can sprout seeds at home by soaking them in water for 12-24 hours, then rinsing them and placing them in a warm, dark place until they sprout.
- Dried fruit is another popular treat for cockatiels. Make sure to choose dried fruit that is unsweetened and free of preservatives.
- Cooked chicken or turkey is a good source of protein for cockatiels. Make sure to cook the chicken or turkey thoroughly and remove any bones before giving it to your cockatiel.
It is important to vary your cockatiel's diet to ensure that they are getting all of the nutrients they need. Talk to your veterinarian about what the best diet is for your cockatiel.
Things to avoid feeding your cockatiel:
- Foods that are high in fat, such as butter, margarine, and oils.
- Foods that are high in sugar, such as candy, soda, and fruit juice.
- Foods that are high in salt, such as chips and pretzels.
- Foods that are toxic to cockatiels, such as avocado, chocolate, and alcohol.
If you are unsure whether or not a particular food is safe for your cockatiel, consult with your veterinarian.