by S. L. Wheeler

Created on: October 27, 2008

Birds can make wonderful pets and are known for living extremely long lives but it is important that bird owners do everything that they can to ensure that these pets are healthy and well cared for. One of the most important aspects of caring for a pet bird is ensuring that they are fed a healthy diet. Knowing what foods are appropriate to feed your pet is vital when it comes to ensuring your pets health and safety.

Like their owners, pet birds should enjoy an array of foods. In most cases pet owners should feel comfortable feeding their pet birds many of the same foods that they eat but there are a few restrictions that if ignored can prove deadly for your pet.

Chocolate tops the list as one of the deadliest foods that a pet bird owner could ever feed their pet. Keep in mind that due to the small body weight of most pet birds ingesting only a small amount could be fatal. Avocado's, like chocolate are another food that tops the list of what not to feed your pet bird and yes, this includes Guacamole!

Coffee may be a great way to jump start your morning but pet owners should never share their morning cup of Java or any food containing caffeine with their pet because foods containing caffeine as well as alcohol can be harmful to your pet.

While in most cases fresh fruit is always a good choice, when it comes to your pet bird ensure that you remove the seeds from the fruit prior to feeding it to your bird. Whether it is the seeds from apples, oranges, grapes or any other fruit keep in mind that the bird could potentially crack the seeds and ingest pieces of it. In some cases the seeds of certain fruits can contain harmful substances that can potentially hurt your pet.

Aside from the foods that were mentioned previously, pet bird owners should also ensure that they limit the amount of fat, salt and sugar that they feed their pets. Too much of these items can be detrimental to your pets health.

If you want your pet bird to live a long and healthy life ensure that you feed your pet a balanced diet of fresh fruit (Minus the seeds of course), vegetables and basic seeds. Avoid feeding your pet foods such as chocolate, avocado's as well as foods that contain caffeine or alcohol. Ensure that you limit the amount of salt, fat and sugar that you include in your pets diet. By adhering to these dietary guidelines you and your pet are well on your way to a long and healthy life together.

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