Seeds vs. Pellets: What Should Your Budgie Eat?

Budgies love seed, and many have eaten nothing else. The problem is that seed is high in fat and missing important vitamins and minerals, so a seed-only diet can lead to health problems over time.

A balanced budgie diet

A healthy mix for most budgies looks like this:

• Pellets as a large part of the diet. They're formulated to be complete, so every bite is balanced.
• Fresh vegetables every day — leafy greens, broccoli, carrot and peppers.
• Some seed as part of the mix or as treats.
• Fresh water every day.

How to switch from seed to pellets

Budgies can be stubborn about new food, and a bird that refuses to eat can get sick quickly. Go slowly:

1. Mix a small amount of pellets into the usual seed.
2. Over several weeks, gradually increase pellets and reduce seed.
3. Make sure your budgie is actually eating — watch for pellet crumbs and normal droppings.
4. If your bird stops eating, go back a step, and call an avian vet if you're worried.

Calcium and minerals

A cuttlebone gives budgies a natural calcium source and something to nibble. It's especially useful for females.

Foods to avoid

Some human foods are dangerous for birds — notably avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol and salty foods. The ASPCA keeps a list of foods to avoid.

Enrichment matters too

Budgies in the wild spend much of the day foraging. Toys, swings and things to shred keep them busy and healthy.

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