<p>It’s quite hard to size your bird and figure out if he is in a healthy weight range because you can’t just look at him. Learning how to handle them and physically check (gently) them will help you figure out if your bird is fed well and thriving or if he is overweight.</p><p>Check out this handy guide or download the printable version <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/15DE_36QYmjH4VzW0h4g0Gyt3aSso0ewq/view?usp=drive_link" download="file"><u>here</u></a>:</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Gaia_Vets_Body_Condition_Score_Chart_For_Birds_579f93cbcf.jpg" alt="Gaia Vets Body Condition Score Chart For Birds.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Gaia_Vets_Body_Condition_Score_Chart_For_Birds_579f93cbcf.jpg 110w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Gaia_Vets_Body_Condition_Score_Chart_For_Birds_579f93cbcf.jpg 353w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Gaia_Vets_Body_Condition_Score_Chart_For_Birds_579f93cbcf.jpg 530w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Gaia_Vets_Body_Condition_Score_Chart_For_Birds_579f93cbcf.jpg 707w" sizes="100vw" width="707"></figure><p>If you find it hard to handle your bird or have any concerns, come to Gaia Vets! Our experienced vet team will be happy to show you how to care for your feathered friend. Call us at <a href="tel: +65 69504533" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>6950 4533</u></a> (Jalan Besar) or <a href="tel: +65 67277511" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>6727 7511</u></a> (Parksuites, Holland Grove Rd).</p><p>P.S. Here’s the guide for <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gaiavets.com/blog/handy-guide-rabbit-body-condition-score-chart"><u>rabbits</u></a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gaiavets.com/blog/handy-guide-cat-body-condition-score-chart"><u>cats</u></a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gaiavets.com/blog/dog-body-condition-score-chart"><u>dogs</u></a>.</p>

<blockquote><p>"It’s hard to tell if birds are sick, because the signs are so subtle. But if owners are aware of their birds' baseline for what's considered normal, they will be more alert to changes which may indicate illnesses." - Dr. Arman Chen, BVSc (Qld.), BSc (Leic.)</p></blockquote><p><br>In the wild where threats of predators are real, birds tend to hide weakness or illness so they don’t get singled out and picked off by birds of prey. This innate behaviour is still stuck with domesticated birds. That is why they do not tend to display their discomfort. But, as pet owners and companions, we have the capabilities to watch for signs of abnormal behaviour. Common signs are listed here but this is not an exhaustive list:</p><h2><br>1) Lack of Appetite and Weight Loss</h2><p>To tell if your bird is eating well, clean out her cage before you feed her so you can check what’s leftover, i.e. the amount that was consumed. If your bird stops eating and starts to lose weight, you should call your vet quickly. Sudden weight loss from lack of appetite could be due to blockage in her intestines and she may require surgery.&nbsp;<br><br>Your bird can still eat normally but lose weight. The best thing you can do is to weigh your bird regularly and record it, or use a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gaiavets.com/blog/check-your-birds-shape"><u>body condition score chart</u></a> to check.</p><h2>2) Colour and Texture Changes in Droppings</h2><p>Regular cage cleaning also helps you monitor droppings. Changes in poo colour, texture and consistency from the usual should be noted, e.g. too hard or too runny poo compared to normal droppings.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>3) Ruffled Feathers</h2><p>Birds usually ruffle their feathers when they preen and clean themselves to get rid of dirt or feather dust stick. So it is abnormal to ruffled feathers for hours and stay fluffed up. Your pet bird’s not pissed off, but most likely feeling discomfort from something e.g. respiratory problems. If you start to notice this prolonged fluffing for 24 hours or more, do contact your vet.&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/4_7541e09bfb.jpg" alt="Ruffled feathers on a bird for long periods of time can be a sign of illness" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_4_7541e09bfb.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_4_7541e09bfb.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_4_7541e09bfb.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_4_7541e09bfb.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Ruffling of feathers for a prolonged period is not a good sign.</i></figcaption></figure><h2><br>4) Dirty Feathers</h2><p>Birds naturally like to keep clean. Hence, messy feathers around your bird's face or feathers that are stuck together at the rump area (the part of your bird’s body immediately above her tail) may be signalling an underlying issue. Start to observe droppings and food intake and note down any abnormalities. Consult your vet quickly.</p><h2><br>5) Lethargy &amp; Weakness</h2><p>Is your pet bird is quite active by nature but seems to have slowed down? Or is she moping in a corner of her cage for disproportionate amounts of time? Is she sleeping a lot more than usual? These may be signs that she is sick. Do rule out issues that impact sleep first, e.g. changes in environment or sudden increase in noise level, as these can be easily corrected.</p><h2><br>6) Red and Runny Cere or Eyes</h2><p>A bird’s cere is the area on the beak where nostrils are located. Any discharge, redness etc. may indicate an illness. Same for her eyes too. Dull, cloudy eyes with discharge may be signs of respiratory problems.&nbsp;</p><h2><br>7) Breathing with The Mouth</h2><p>Like us, if your bird is opening her mouth wide to breathe, it is an indication of respiratory problems.</p><h2><br>8) Change in Vocalisation</h2><p>Pay attention if your song bird stops singing or changes her normal pattern of vocalisation, i.e. making new sounds or different sounds. This may be an indication of discomfort from illness or she is feeling stressed out by something.&nbsp;</p><h2><br>9) Bobbing of Tail</h2><p><br>The muscles at the base of your pet bird’s tail helps her to breathe by expanding her lungs to take in more air. Birds bob their tails &nbsp;up and down repeatedly to work their tail muscles harder when they experience respiratory difficulties. Similar to humans when we pant to take in more air more quickly. Call your vet immediately if you notice this behaviour.</p><p><br>To conclude, early diagnosis for sick birds make a huge difference in their ability to recover from many diseases. Regular health checks will give your vet a better chance to catch any subtle changes in your bird. At Gaia Vets, we see and treat birds so if your pet bird is showing the signs mentioned above, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gaiavets.com/#location"><strong><u>do contact us</u></strong></a>.</p>

Medically reviewed by Dr. Arman Chen, BVSc (Qld.), BSc (Leic.)

9 Signs Your Bird May Be Sick

<h2>Why Feed Birds Pellets?</h2><p>Formulated pellets are better for birds because they are more balanced in terms of nutrition, compared to seeds. An all-seed diet is high in fat and does not provide the essential vitamins and minerals, e.g. calcium for your bird to be healthy.<br><br>A good way to make seeds more nutritious for your bird is to sprout the seeds. The sprouting process burns off the fat and produces more nutrients which your bird can benefit from. Check out our easy step-by-step guide to seed sprouting.</p><blockquote><p>"Never starve your bird into eating pellets because it causes unnecessary stress and it can be quite detrimental to their health. A gradual conversion takes more effort but it is safer and better for you and your bird." - Dr. Arman Chen, BVSc (Qld.), BSc (Leic.)</p></blockquote><h2><br>Is It Hard to Convert My Seed-loving Bird to Pellets?</h2><p>It can be challenging, but you’ve got to keep in mind why you are doing this. It is for your bird's well-being and health for her to have a pelleted diet instead of an all-seed one. It is also going to be cheaper and less distressing for you in the long run. You are actively taking action to reduce medical bills treating a whole host of diseases that are preventable with diet control. Not to mention, saving yourself from the anxiety and stress over a sick pet.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/A_diet_consisting_mostly_of_pellets_is_much_better_for_bird_health_0377e987cb.jpg" alt="A diet consisting mostly of pellets is much better for bird health.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_A_diet_consisting_mostly_of_pellets_is_much_better_for_bird_health_0377e987cb.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_A_diet_consisting_mostly_of_pellets_is_much_better_for_bird_health_0377e987cb.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_A_diet_consisting_mostly_of_pellets_is_much_better_for_bird_health_0377e987cb.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_A_diet_consisting_mostly_of_pellets_is_much_better_for_bird_health_0377e987cb.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Formulated pellets are better for birds because they are more nutritionally balanced than seeds.&nbsp;</i></figcaption></figure><h3>Conditions for diet conversion:</h3><ol><li>Your bird should be healthy</li><li>Your bird should be at a healthy weight</li><li>Be aware of your bird's current baseline i.e. amount, colour and consistency of droppings</li><li>Understand your starting point, e.g. if your bird has been given an all-seed diet, and not offered other types of food, you can start off by acclimatising your bird to other textures first, e.g. fresh vegetables, fruits etc.<br><br>If your bird is used to eating a variety of food, it means her palate is more trained to accept different textures and flavours. She is more ready candidate to convert to a diet which consists mostly of pellets.</li></ol><p><br><strong>*Note:</strong> If you are unsure whether your bird is healthy enough or at the ideal weight, it is best to check in with your vet before starting diet conversion.<br><br>There are 5 stages in getting your bird used to a pelleted diet. Before you start, remember that the duration stated for each stage is just a gauge and can differ for different birds. So be sure that your bird has completed one stage without any weight loss before bringing her to the next stage.</p><h2>Stage 1 (1 - 3 days):</h2><h3>Give Your Bird a Taste of Pellets</h3><p>You can try any of the following method to acclimatise your bird to the taste of pellets. The idea is to mix a small quantity of pellets into your bird's regular seed diet.</p><ul><li>Grind the pellets into fine powder and sprinkle it over everything you feed your bird including treats. Mixing the pellet powder well with your bird's old diet of seeds also makes sure she gets a taste of the pellets even if she tends to pick out certain seeds to eat.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>Offer pellets by hand like a treat to (hopefully) pique your bird's curiosity.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>Soften pellets with water to make the texture a bit more interesting. But be sure to remove any leftovers after 2 hours and replace with fresh pellets because wet food spoils easily.</li></ul><h2>Stage 2 (7 - 14 days, or even weeks):</h2><h3>Limit Your Bird's Choices</h3><p>This transitions your bird to take up pellets if she gets hungry between meal times. You can continue to do Stage 1, i.e. sprinkle some pellet powder over her current seed diet as well.</p><ul><li>Limit your bird's meal times by offering the current seed diet for 20 - 30 minutes in the morning and 20 - 30 minutes in evening. This also depends on how fast your bird eats, so feel free to adjust the duration. Yes, take her old diet away after this period of time, and offer her only pellets.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>Be sure to use the same food dish etc. to contain the pellets so your bird will associate pellets with food and not anything else.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>If you want to take this even more gradually, you can offer the current seed diet for the same amount of time, e.g. 20 - 30 minutes in the middle of the day.<br>&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>*Note:</strong> Monitor her droppings to make sure she is still pooping. White and/or liquid poo means she is not eating. Other signs include lethargy, significant weight loss and ruffled feathers. If your bird shows any of these signs, she is not ready and you should offer her some of her old diet. You can use this handy body condition score to monitor your bird's weight.</p><p><br>You can still continue to convert your bird, however, it just means you need to take it even more slowly. How? Go through Stage 1 again to get your bird's palate accustomed to the pellets.</p><h2><br>Stage 3 (7 - 14 days, or even weeks):</h2><h3>Bring Your Bird To The Pellet Side</h3><p>Taking things a step further from Stage 2 here to convert your bird's diet to one which consists mostly of pellets. Determination is key here.<br>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Offer her old diet just once daily for a limited duration e.g. 20 - 30 minutes. Then provide pellets in her food dish for the rest of the day.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>Do not offer any treats or human food during this stage so your bird won't learn to hold out for these preferred food. Yes, it is very similar to withholding treats to children when training them to eat proper meals.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>You will need to be strict, because your bird may resort to bad behaviour. Just monitor her poo (see *Note under Stage 2) to make sure she is eating.</li></ul><h2><br>Stage 4 (14 days):</h2><h3>Cold Turkey Your Bird</h3><p>This is a crucial step in getting your bird to completely take up a pelleted diet.</p><ul><li>Strictly feed her pellets only for about 2 weeks.<br>&nbsp;</li><li>Continuing from Stage 3, be sure that you do not offer any treats or human food during this time.</li></ul><p>This allows you to confirm that the poo colour, consistency etc. comes from an all-pellet diet. This is important as it forms a new baseline for a new norm. From here on, anything that deviates from this baseline may be a symptom for illness or stress.<br><br>You should also continue to monitor your bird's weight using the body condition score chart. If your bird has dropped from score 3 (Ideal) to a score of 2 (Skinny) and below, you should restart the whole process from Stage 1.</p><h2>Stage 5 (Get into a Routine):&nbsp;</h2><h3>Feed Pellets and Bring Back The Variety</h3><p>We recommend a pelleted diet but not a 100% one. Providing variety in flavours and textures via fresh vegetables and fruits is highly beneficial to pet birds.</p><p><br>Keep your bird's new pelleted diet at a 75%, and offer variety in the remaining 25%. This can include fresh fruits and vegetables as treats and even some seeds. You should also check out this <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gaiavets.com/blog/foods-you-should-never-feed-your-pet-bird"><strong><u>list of human food which you should not feed your bird</u></strong></a>.</p><blockquote><p>"Younger birds will get used to this new diet quicker than older birds so with adult or senior birds, so you'll just need a little more patience. Some birds can also take a few months to eat pellets consistently, but don't give up because it's really worthwhile!" - Dr Arman Chen, BVSc (Qld.), BAppSc (Qld.)</p></blockquote><p><br>Keep it up and stay strong because this diet conversion is really worthwhile and will pay off in the end. Your bird will be so much healthier and our team at Gaia Vets is here to support you and offer more advice if you face any obstacles. If you need help, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gaiavets.com/#location"><strong><u>contact us today</u></strong></a>!</p>

How to Convert Your Bird From Seeds to Pellets

<p>On top of the list of common foods that are toxic birds, we've also included a list of food you can share with them instead!</p><p>We all make this mistake of sharing our food with our animal companions from time to time, but this habit can have dire consequences. For birds, the key is to realise that they are a lot smaller than humans in body weight. This means any foods which has mild or negligible effect on us will impact them greatly.</p><h2>1) Chocolate (Theobromine)</h2><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Chocolates_are_bad_for_birds_and_bad_for_all_pets_20103b3929.jpg" alt="Chocolates are bad for birds and bad for all pets.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Chocolates_are_bad_for_birds_and_bad_for_all_pets_20103b3929.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Chocolates_are_bad_for_birds_and_bad_for_all_pets_20103b3929.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Chocolates_are_bad_for_birds_and_bad_for_all_pets_20103b3929.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Chocolates_are_bad_for_birds_and_bad_for_all_pets_20103b3929.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Chocolates are a big no no for all pets, not just birds</i></figcaption></figure><p>Theobromine is a stimulant and comes from the cacao plant. Animals don't metabolise theobromine as quickly as humans. Hence, they can easily accumulate too much theobromine in their system and be poisoned.&nbsp;</p><p>Dark chocolate has a much higher concentration of theobromine since it has a higher cocoa content. Cocoa (powder) is basically ground cacao heated at a higher temperature. Other common foods which contain theobromine include tea, cola drinks etc.&nbsp;</p><h3><br>What can happen?</h3><p>Your feathery friend will suffer symptoms similar to a drug overdose. Theobromine causes</p><ul><li>Vomiting</li><li>Diarrhoea</li><li>Seizures</li><li>Heart attacks</li><li>Liver damage</li><li>Death</li></ul><p>Chocolates are also dangerous to dogs and cats.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>2) Caffeinated Beverages</h2><p>Coffee, tea and caffeinated soft drinks are huge hazards to birds. Caffeine makes humans more alert and hyperactive and has the same effect in birds, except much more powerful.&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Caffeine_is_bad_for_all_pets_de687b1a17.jpg" alt="Caffeine is bad for all pets.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Caffeine_is_bad_for_all_pets_de687b1a17.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Caffeine_is_bad_for_all_pets_de687b1a17.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Caffeine_is_bad_for_all_pets_de687b1a17.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Caffeine_is_bad_for_all_pets_de687b1a17.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Caffeine is bad for all animals</i></figcaption></figure><h3>What can happen?</h3><ul><li>Hyperactivity</li><li>Seizures</li><li>Arrhythmia i.e. abnormal heart rate</li><li>Heart attacks</li></ul><p>Many foods contain caffeine because of coffee's popularity. So watch out for foods which may seem innocuous, e.g. cakes, ice cream etc.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>3) Milk &amp; Dairy Products</h2><p>We may enjoy milk and its derivatives i.e. cheeses, yoghurts etc., but birds do not have the right enzymes to digest lactose properly. Similar to people we know who are lactose-intolerant.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Birds_can_t_digest_dairy_products_like_cheese_d67c47e285.jpg" alt="Birds can't digest dairy products like cheese.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Birds_can_t_digest_dairy_products_like_cheese_d67c47e285.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Birds_can_t_digest_dairy_products_like_cheese_d67c47e285.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Birds_can_t_digest_dairy_products_like_cheese_d67c47e285.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Birds_can_t_digest_dairy_products_like_cheese_d67c47e285.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Birds can't digest diary products at all</i></figcaption></figure><p>Dairy also spoils quickly if not refrigerated properly. This means they can harbour bacteria or fungus which can cause serious infections.<br>&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p>"The milk of every species of mammal is unique and specifically tailored to the requirements of that animal." &nbsp;- Dr Robert M. Kradjian, Surgeon</p></blockquote><p><br>An interesting way to view milk as we know it from cows, goats etc., is that it has always been intended by nature as food from mothers to their babies. This means it consists of nutritional needs specific for its target audience's consumption. Not suitable for birds.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>4) Alcohol</h2><p>An obvious one on this ‘harmful foods for birds’ list but still worthy of mention. Cases of alcohol poisoning still happen in pet birds, especially those allowed to roam freely at home. So pet owners, make sure your birds are in their cage when you have alcoholic drinks lying around.&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Alcohol_ingested_or_inhaled_can_be_toxic_to_birds_9763a42017.jpg" alt="Alcohol ingested or inhaled can be toxic to birds.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Alcohol_ingested_or_inhaled_can_be_toxic_to_birds_9763a42017.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Alcohol_ingested_or_inhaled_can_be_toxic_to_birds_9763a42017.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Alcohol_ingested_or_inhaled_can_be_toxic_to_birds_9763a42017.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Alcohol_ingested_or_inhaled_can_be_toxic_to_birds_9763a42017.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Simply inhaling alcohol can be catastrophic for birds</i></figcaption></figure><p>Alcohol is also not just dangerous when ingested. Household items such as disinfecting sprays and hand sanitisers also contain alcohol. These are toxic to birds when inhaled.</p><h3>What can happen?</h3><p>A tiny amount of alcohol is enough to cause organ deterioration or even death.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>5) Avocado (Persin)</h2><p>This toxin found in avocado pits can leach into its fruit and skin, making avocados dangerous to birds.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Avocados_contain_persin_which_is_toxic_to_most_animals_79e6b14334.jpg" alt="Avocados contain persin which is toxic to most animals.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Avocados_contain_persin_which_is_toxic_to_most_animals_79e6b14334.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Avocados_contain_persin_which_is_toxic_to_most_animals_79e6b14334.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Avocados_contain_persin_which_is_toxic_to_most_animals_79e6b14334.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Avocados_contain_persin_which_is_toxic_to_most_animals_79e6b14334.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Avocados contain persin which is toxic to most animals</i></figcaption></figure><h3>What can happen?</h3><p>Small amounts of avocado lead to:</p><ul><li>Lethargy</li><li>Breathing problems</li><li>Vomiting</li><li>Diarrhoea</li><li>Death<br>&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>6) Seeds and Pits of Fruits (Cyanide)</h2><p>While you can feed some fruits to your birds and they in turn enjoy them very much, do remove the seeds or core first. Because many fruits contain seeds which have small amounts of cyanide that can poison them to death.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Fruit_pits_and_seeds_contain_cyanide_which_is_lethal_in_small_doses_5cec80bdbf.jpg" alt="Fruit pits and seeds contain cyanide which is lethal in small doses.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Fruit_pits_and_seeds_contain_cyanide_which_is_lethal_in_small_doses_5cec80bdbf.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Fruit_pits_and_seeds_contain_cyanide_which_is_lethal_in_small_doses_5cec80bdbf.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Fruit_pits_and_seeds_contain_cyanide_which_is_lethal_in_small_doses_5cec80bdbf.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Fruit_pits_and_seeds_contain_cyanide_which_is_lethal_in_small_doses_5cec80bdbf.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Fruit pits and seeds contain cyanide which can be lethal in small doses</i></figcaption></figure><p>Examples include, apples, pears, cherries and peaches. As long as seeds and pits are removed, these fruits are safe for birds.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>7) Mushrooms</h2><p>Raw or cooked, mushrooms or fungus in any form are bad for birds.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Mushrooms_in_any_form_are_harmeful_for_birds_e40fe5e90c.jpg" alt="Mushrooms in any form are harmeful for birds.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Mushrooms_in_any_form_are_harmeful_for_birds_e40fe5e90c.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Mushrooms_in_any_form_are_harmeful_for_birds_e40fe5e90c.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Mushrooms_in_any_form_are_harmeful_for_birds_e40fe5e90c.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Mushrooms_in_any_form_are_harmeful_for_birds_e40fe5e90c.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Mushrooms in any form are harmful for birds</i></figcaption></figure><h3>What can happen?</h3><ul><li>Vomiting</li><li>Diarrhoea</li><li>Liver failure</li><li>Death<br>&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>8) Onions, Garlic &amp; Chives</h2><p>In small quantities, these common herbs we love may have imperceptible effects on pet birds but it is best to avoid them all together. Frequent consumption can cause a whole host of problems in birds.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Feeding_pets_regularly_with_foods_cooked_with_onion_and_garlic_are_really_bad_for_them_2f1bd8b7e0.jpg" alt="Feeding pets regularly with foods cooked with onion and garlic are really bad for them.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Feeding_pets_regularly_with_foods_cooked_with_onion_and_garlic_are_really_bad_for_them_2f1bd8b7e0.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Feeding_pets_regularly_with_foods_cooked_with_onion_and_garlic_are_really_bad_for_them_2f1bd8b7e0.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Feeding_pets_regularly_with_foods_cooked_with_onion_and_garlic_are_really_bad_for_them_2f1bd8b7e0.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Feeding_pets_regularly_with_foods_cooked_with_onion_and_garlic_are_really_bad_for_them_2f1bd8b7e0.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Feeding pets regularly with foods cooked with onion and garlic is really bad for them</i></figcaption></figure><h3>What can happen?</h3><ul><li>Vomiting</li><li>Diarrhoea</li><li>Haemolytic anaemia, respiratory distress and eventually fatal if frequently fed to birds.<br>&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>9) Tomato Leaves &amp; Stems</h2><p>Not that you can buy these readily at the local supermarket, but those of you who grow your own tomatoes, be careful. Do not feed your birds stems and leaves from the plant or scraps of stem from vine tomatoes.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Tomato_stems_and_leaves_are_toxic_to_birds_741fc093f7.jpg" alt="Tomato stems and leaves are toxic to birds.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Tomato_stems_and_leaves_are_toxic_to_birds_741fc093f7.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Tomato_stems_and_leaves_are_toxic_to_birds_741fc093f7.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Tomato_stems_and_leaves_are_toxic_to_birds_741fc093f7.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Tomato_stems_and_leaves_are_toxic_to_birds_741fc093f7.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Tomato stems and leaves are toxic to birds so keep your pet away from your garden!</i></figcaption></figure><h3>What can happen?</h3><p>Vomiting and diarrhoea are common effects of ingesting tomato leaves and stems. That said, the tomato fruit itself is safe for birds to munch on.<br>&nbsp;</p><h2>10) Spinach (Oxalic Acid)</h2><p>Oxalic acid can be found in most vegetables but exists in higher concentrations in spinach. Feeding your bird spinach too frequently can cause problems.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Spinach_has_the_highest_amount_of_oxalate_amongst_vegetables_and_can_interfere_with_calcium_adsorption_in_birds_33550bef26.jpg" alt="Spinach has the highest amount of oxalate amongst vegetables and can interfere with calcium adsorption in birds.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Spinach_has_the_highest_amount_of_oxalate_amongst_vegetables_and_can_interfere_with_calcium_adsorption_in_birds_33550bef26.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Spinach_has_the_highest_amount_of_oxalate_amongst_vegetables_and_can_interfere_with_calcium_adsorption_in_birds_33550bef26.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Spinach_has_the_highest_amount_of_oxalate_amongst_vegetables_and_can_interfere_with_calcium_adsorption_in_birds_33550bef26.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Spinach_has_the_highest_amount_of_oxalate_amongst_vegetables_and_can_interfere_with_calcium_adsorption_in_birds_33550bef26.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Spinach has the highest amount of oxalic acid amongst vegetables and can interfere with calcium adsorption in birds</i></figcaption></figure><h3>What can happen?</h3><p>Oxalic acid inhibits calcium absorption, and in birds, increases the risk of egg binding.</p><blockquote><p>"Egg binding is a condition where the bird retains her egg in the reproductive tract instead of laying it. Quite common in popular bird breeds here in Singapore such as budgies, lovebirds and cockatiels." - Dr. Arman Chen, BVSc (Qld.), BSc (Leic.)</p></blockquote><p>Variety is key when it comes to a healthy diet for your pet bird and it varies for different species of birds. Alternative fresh leafy greens such as bok choy and romaine lettuce are great. If you want to splurge, feed your bird some kale.<br>&nbsp;</p><h2>11) Salt</h2><p>Found in higher concentrations in processed foods, salt is the reason why you should avoid feeding your pet the snacks you enjoy.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Avoid_sharing_salty_snacks_with_your_bird_cc9fd9589c.jpg" alt="Avoid sharing salty snacks with your bird.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Avoid_sharing_salty_snacks_with_your_bird_cc9fd9589c.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Avoid_sharing_salty_snacks_with_your_bird_cc9fd9589c.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Avoid_sharing_salty_snacks_with_your_bird_cc9fd9589c.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Avoid_sharing_salty_snacks_with_your_bird_cc9fd9589c.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Resist the temptation to share your salty snacks with your bird</i></figcaption></figure><h3>What can happen?</h3><p>Small amounts of salt can cause</p><ul><li>Excessive thirst</li><li>Dehydration</li><li>Kidney failure</li><li>Death</li></ul><p>So keep your bird treats natural and don't share that potato chip no matter how cute they look holding it with their beaks.<br>&nbsp;</p><h2>12) Xylitol</h2><p>This sugar substitute is commonly used in many foods and oral care products. Examples include mints, soft drinks, chewable vitamins, peanut butter, mouth wash, toothpaste etc.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/Artificial_sugars_such_as_xylitol_are_commonly_found_in_sugar_free_candy_and_are_toxic_to_birds_8f55978fe9.jpg" alt="Artificial sugars such as xylitol are commonly found in sugar free candy and are toxic to birds.jpg" srcset="https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/thumbnail_Artificial_sugars_such_as_xylitol_are_commonly_found_in_sugar_free_candy_and_are_toxic_to_birds_8f55978fe9.jpg 208w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/small_Artificial_sugars_such_as_xylitol_are_commonly_found_in_sugar_free_candy_and_are_toxic_to_birds_8f55978fe9.jpg 500w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/medium_Artificial_sugars_such_as_xylitol_are_commonly_found_in_sugar_free_candy_and_are_toxic_to_birds_8f55978fe9.jpg 750w, https://cms.gaiavets.com/uploads/large_Artificial_sugars_such_as_xylitol_are_commonly_found_in_sugar_free_candy_and_are_toxic_to_birds_8f55978fe9.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"><figcaption><i>Artificial sugars such as xylitol are commonly found in sugar free candy and are toxic to birds</i></figcaption></figure><p>For pet owners, product labels touting terms 'sugar-free', 'all natural and sugar-free', ‘no sugars added’ etc. should always warrant a second look.</p><p>Xylitol can cause liver failure in dogs and its increased usage in processed foods is noteworthy for all pet owners. Plus, birds have a faster metabolism compared to larger pets such as dogs, which means birds are likely to be more sensitive xylitol's effect. &nbsp;Best to avoid it all together.</p><h2>On a more positive note…</h2><p>You can feed a range of healthy treats for birds, just be sure to make sure their daily diet is well-balanced. Here's a handy list of great treats you can easily get from our local market for your pet bird:</p><ul><li>Bananas</li><li>Blueberries</li><li>Broccoli</li><li>Carrots</li><li>Mango</li><li>Nuts</li><li>Root vegetables</li><li>Watermelon</li></ul><p>As always, bird owners are welcome to come to Gaia Vets for advice and consultation. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gaiavets.com/#location"><strong><u>Book an appointment </u></strong></a>with us today!</p>

Handy Guide: Bird Body Condition Score Chart

gaia vets

for every pet