Last Updated on by Mitch Rezman
Proper nutrition for cockatoos varies somewhat by size—large, medium, and small—but there are fundamental guidelines applicable across all cockatoos to ensure optimal health.
Here’s how nutrition guidelines differ according to cockatoo size categories:
1. Large Cockatoos (e.g., Moluccan, Umbrella, Sulphur-Crested)
Large cockatoos have higher caloric and nutritional requirements due to their size and active lifestyle.
Ideal Diet:
- Pellets:
High-quality formulated pellets should comprise approximately 60–70% of the diet. These provide balanced nutrition, essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. - Fresh Vegetables (20–30%):
Dark leafy greens (kale, collards, spinach), carrots, sweet potatoes, broccoli, zucchini, and squash are ideal. Vegetables provide vital nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber. - Fresh Fruits (10% or less):
Fruits like apples, bananas, berries, mango, papaya, grapes, and melons offer variety and essential vitamins but should be offered sparingly due to their sugar content. - Grains and Legumes:
Cooked beans (kidney, chickpeas), lentils, quinoa, barley, brown rice, and whole grains can supplement nutrition. - Seeds and Nuts (in moderation, less than 5–10%):
Walnuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, pistachios, sunflower, pumpkin seeds, or other nuts can be given as occasional treats, as they are nutrient-dense but also high in fat.
Additional considerations:
Provide occasional animal protein (such as cooked egg or lean chicken) in tiny amounts (once or twice monthly).
2. Medium-Sized Cockatoos (e.g., Goffin’s, Bare-eyed/Corella, Galah/Rose-breasted)
Medium-sized cockatoos need balanced nutrition similar to large cockatoos, but their calorie intake should be slightly lower to prevent obesity.
Ideal Diet:
- Pellets (60–70%):
Again, pellets should form the bulk of the diet, ensuring balanced nutrients. - Vegetables (20–30%):
Offer a wide variety of fresh vegetables (leafy greens, peppers, carrots, broccoli, and squash). - Fruits (10% or less):
Offer fruits in moderation, focusing on lower-sugar fruits like berries, apples, and pears. - Grains and Legumes:
Cooked legumes, grains, sprouted seeds, and whole-grain pasta or rice make nutritious supplemental foods. - Seeds and Nuts (5–10%):
Nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews) and seeds can be treats but should be strictly limited to avoid excessive fat intake.
Additional considerations:
Medium-sized cockatoos, especially Goffin’s, can easily become overweight. Monitor weight and adjust treats accordingly.
3. Small Cockatoos (e.g., Cockatiel, Lesser Sulphur-crested, Little Corella)
Small cockatoos, such as cockatiels or small corellas, have lower caloric needs but still require varied, nutrient-rich diets.
Ideal Diet:
- Pellets (60–70%):
Specialized pellets formulated for smaller cockatoos or cockatiels should be primary food sources. - Vegetables (20–30%):
Vegetables should include leafy greens (romaine lettuce, kale), grated carrot, broccoli florets, snap peas, corn, and small slices of sweet potato. - Fruits (10% or less):
Cockatiels and smaller cockatoos should have even smaller fruit portions to prevent sugar-related issues. Safe options include berries, apples, kiwi, or mango, provided sparingly. - Grains and Sprouts:
Cooked whole grains (millet, quinoa), brown rice, and freshly sprouted seeds can enrich their diet significantly. - Seeds and Nuts (5–10%):
Provide limited quantities of healthy seeds (millet, safflower, sunflower) and small portions of nuts (almond slivers, chopped walnuts) as occasional treats.
Additional considerations:
Cockatiels and smaller cockatoos are prone to nutritional imbalances (like calcium deficiency), so ensure adequate dietary calcium via pellets, dark leafy greens, and occasional cuttlebone.
Foods to Avoid for ALL Cockatoos:
- Avocado (toxic)
- Chocolate
- Caffeine or alcohol
- Excessive salt or sugary snacks
- Onion, garlic (in large amounts), or other alliums
- Fruit pits/seeds (apple seeds, cherry pits) due to potential toxins
General Recommendations for All Cockatoos:
- Provide fresh water daily.
- Rotate vegetables and fruits regularly for diverse nutrient intake.
- Limit high-fat or sugary treats to prevent obesity, liver disease, or heart issues.
- Offer opportunities for foraging and enrichment to promote activity and mental stimulation.
- Consult an avian veterinarian annually to monitor weight, overall health, and nutritional status.
Following these guidelines tailored to your cockatoo’s size will contribute significantly to their health, longevity, and quality of life.
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