Recommended Diet Types
Cockatiels thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality pellets as a base (60-70% of daily intake). Supplement with fresh vegetables, fruits, and limited seeds. Avoid all-seed diets as they are high in fat and low in essential nutrients.
Portion Sizes and Daily Caloric Needs
An adult cockatiel (80-100g) needs about 30-40 kcal per day. Adjust based on activity level:
| Activity Level | Daily kcal | Pellets (tbsp) | Vegetables (tbsp) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sedentary | 30-35 | 1-1.5 | 1 |
| Active | 35-40 | 1.5-2 | 1-2 |
| Breeding | 40-50 | 2-2.5 | 2 |
Feeding Frequency and Schedule
Provide fresh food twice daily: morning and evening. Remove uneaten fresh foods after 2-4 hours to prevent spoilage. Pellets and water can be available ad libitum.
Essential Nutrients
- Protein: 15-20% from pellets, legumes, cooked eggs
- Fat: 5-10% from seeds, nuts (limited)
- Carbohydrates: from vegetables and fruits
- Vitamins: A, D3, E, K, B-complex (from veggies and fortified pellets)
- Minerals: Calcium (cuttlebone), phosphorus, magnesium
Toxic or Harmful Foods
Never feed: avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, onion, garlic, rhubarb, fruit pits (apple seeds), high-salt or high-sugar foods. Avoid dairy—cockatiels are lactose intolerant.
Water Intake
Fresh, clean water must be available at all times. Change water daily and clean the dish every day. A cockatiel drinks approximately 5-10 ml per day.
Beneficial Supplements
- Calcium: Cuttlebone or mineral block for egg-laying birds
- Probiotics: For digestive health, especially after antibiotics
- Omega-3: Found in flaxseed (ground) or chia seeds
Feeding Differences by Life Stage
Juveniles (weaning to 6 months)
Offer more frequent meals (3-4 times daily). Provide soft foods and soaked pellets. Ensure high protein for growth.
Adults (6 months to 5 years)
Maintain balanced diet with 60-70% pellets. Limit seeds to 10% of diet. Offer daily fresh greens.
Seniors (5+ years)
Monitor weight and adjust calorie intake to prevent obesity. Provide softer foods if beak or mobility issues. Increase calcium and vitamin D3 for bone health.
Signs of Healthy vs. Poor Diet
Healthy: Bright eyes, smooth feathers, active, good appetite, firm droppings.
Poor: Dull ruffled feathers, lethargy, weight loss/gain, abnormal droppings (too watery, undigested), feather plucking.
Regular vet check-ups are crucial to assess nutritional status.