Feeding Your Feathered Friend: The Complete Guide to Cockatiel Nutrition

Cockatiels are charming, intelligent, and affectionate birds—and like any pet, they rely on us for their health and well-being. One of the most important aspects of cockatiel care is proper nutrition. A balanced diet not only helps them live longer but also keeps their feathers bright, their energy high, and their immune systems strong.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about feeding your cockatiel the right way.

🥗 What Should a Cockatiel Eat?

A healthy cockatiel diet should include a balance of pellets, fresh foods, and seeds. Here's the ideal breakdown:

• Pellets (60–70%)
  High-quality formulated pellets should make up the bulk of your cockatiel’s diet. Unlike seed mixes, pellets provide consistent nutrition and prevent selective feeding.

• Fresh Vegetables & Fruits (20–25%)
  Add fresh, bird-safe vegetables and fruits daily to provide essential vitamins, minerals, and hydration.

  ✅ Good veggies: kale, carrots, broccoli, spinach, bell peppers, sweet potato
  ✅ Good fruits (in moderation): apple (no seeds), banana, mango, berries, melon

• Seeds & Grains (5–10%)
  Seeds should be offered as treats or supplements—not the main meal. Overreliance on seed diets can lead to obesity and nutrient deficiencies.

• Occasional Protein & Extras
  Cockatiels can also have small amounts of cooked egg, quinoa, brown rice, or legumes for extra protein and variety.

❌ Foods to Avoid

Some common human foods are toxic or harmful to cockatiels. Never feed your bird:

• Avocado

• Chocolate

• Caffeine (coffee, tea, soda)

• Alcohol

• Onions or garlic

• Apple seeds or fruit pits

• Salty, sugary, or fried foods

💧 Water & Hydration

Fresh, clean water should always be available. Change it daily and make sure your bird’s water dish is cleaned regularly to prevent bacterial buildup.

🕒 Feeding Schedule

Consistency is key. Offer fresh food each morning and remove any uneaten perishable items after a few hours. Keep pellets and water available throughout the day.

• Morning: Fresh veggies/fruits and a base of pellets

• Evening (optional): Small treat or some cooked grains/protein

🌿 Foraging & Enrichment

Nutrition isn’t just about what you feed—it’s also how you feed. Encourage natural foraging behavior by:

• Hiding pellets or treats in toys

• Using a foraging tray

• Hanging leafy greens from cage bars

This keeps your cockatiel mentally stimulated and mimics their wild feeding habits.

🧪 Signs of Good (and Poor) Nutrition

A well-fed cockatiel should have:

• Bright, smooth feathers

• Active behavior

• Clear eyes and nostrils

• Normal droppings

Poor nutrition may show as:

• Dull or ruffled feathers

• Overgrown beak or nails

• Lethargy or frequent illness

• Obesity or visible weight loss

🩺 Vet Tip: Weigh Regularly

Use a small digital scale to weigh your cockatiel weekly. Sudden weight changes can be the first sign of a health issue—and often go unnoticed without routine weighing.

Final Thoughts

Feeding your cockatiel a nutritious, varied, and balanced diet is one of the best ways to keep them healthy and happy. While seeds may be traditional, modern avian nutrition emphasizes variety and quality. Think of it this way: you’re not just feeding your bird—you’re fueling their lifespan, behavior, and overall joy.