A balanced pet bird diet centers on high-quality formulated pellets as the foundation, supplemented with fresh vegetables, limited fruit, and controlled amounts of seeds and nuts. The exact proportions depend on species, but pellets should make up roughly fifty to seventy percent of the diet for most parrots.

Pellets are designed to provide complete nutrition in every bite, unlike seeds, which are high in fat and deficient in vitamins A, D, and calcium. Birds fed seed-only diets commonly develop fatty liver disease, vitamin A deficiency, calcium imbalances, and obesity. Transitioning a seed-addicted bird to pellets requires patience and should be done gradually under veterinary guidance to avoid dangerous weight loss.

Fresh vegetables should compose about twenty to thirty percent of the diet. Dark leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, and dandelion greens are excellent choices. Bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas, and sweet potato offer important nutrients and variety. Wash all produce thoroughly and serve it raw or lightly steamed.

Fruit should be offered sparingly, a few small pieces a few times per week, because of its sugar content. Safe options include blueberries, papaya, mango, apple without seeds, and melon. Avoid avocado, which is toxic.

Seeds and nuts can serve as training treats or foraging rewards rather than dietary staples. Almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds are nutritious in small quantities.

Always provide fresh, clean water daily. Some birds benefit from added calcium sources like cuttlebone or mineral blocks, especially breeding females and African greys. Consult an avian veterinarian to tailor the diet to your bird's specific species, age, and health needs.