by Cynthia Wall

Created on: November 02, 2008

"Polly, wanna cracker?" If your pet bird is part of your family, you may be tempted to give it treats just as you would a dog or cat. The ideal diet for your feathered friend is a commercial pellet or seed based diet. An occasional healthy treat is okay, but be careful. Because of their small size, birds are especially sensitive to toxic substances. Let's look at what not to feed and what to substitute instead.

1. CHOCOLATE. It may be the ideal Valentine's Gift for humans but it's deadly for a bird. It first causes vomiting and diarrhea, and then seizures and death.

Instead, offer small pieces of fruit such as grapes, oranges, bananas or melons. Just make sure you discard any leftovers after a couple of hours so bacteria won't grow inside the cage.

2. APPLE SEEDS. The seeds of apples, cherries, peaches, apricots, and pears all contain trace amounts of Cyanide.

Instead, wash the skin of the apple and core it being sure to remove all seeds. Your bird will enjoy a bit of apple just like you do.

3. AVOCADO. Polly won't be having guacamole on that cracker; the avocado seed and pit can cause heart failure in some birds. It's unknown how much toxicity is in the flesh skip it.

Instead, offer washed vegetable sprouts. Washing is a must for any fruit or vegetable that may have come in contact with toxins.

4. ONIONS. Excessive consumption of onions can cause all sorts of digestive problems and even a blood condition called hemolytic anemia. How much is excessive? Don't experiment with a pet none is a good amount.

Instead, offer other fresh washed veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, asparagus, or peas.

5. ALCOHOL AND CAFFEINE. Alcohol depresses the organ systems and caffeine increases heartbeat leading to arrhythmia, hyperactivity, and cardiac arrest. While you would never intentionally give these beverages to your bird, be aware that they imitate you. If your pet is loose in the room while alcohol and caffeine are being served, they may fly down for a sip themselves. Keep them caged and be safe.

Instead, if you like to share a drink with your bird buddy, stick to fruit or vegetable juice as long as there's no added salt.

6. DRIED BEANS. Did you know that some dried beans like kidney beans contain toxic substances unless they're thoroughly cooked? That's why they should never be cooked in a slow cooker as the internal temperature may not be high enough to destroy the toxins. Don't give your bird any kind of dried beans.

Instead, boil up some 15 bean soup without salt,

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