Top 10 Safe Human Foods for Cockatiels (And What to Avoid)

Having raised cockatiels for many years, I am aware of the importance of providing these beautiful birds with a healthy diet. The food your cockatiel eats can have a big impact on its lifespan and overall health. A healthy diet keeps your bird active and chatty.
A common question among bird owners is whether it’s acceptable to feed human food to their cockatiels. My clear response is Yes, but only for certain foods. Our feathered companions shouldn’t eat everything we eat. Even though they may appear healthy to us, some foods can actually be extremely harmful. That’s why it is important to understand which human foods are safe for cockatiels and which should be avoided.

In this article, I will share the top 10 human foods that are safe for cockatiels, based on my own experience as a breeder. I will also go over some foods that should never be given to cockatiels. Let’s get started!

Can Cockatiels Eat Human Food?

Cockatiels can eat specific human foods as part of a balanced diet. Giving them the right types of food is important. You should never substitute their usual seed mix or bird pellets with human food. Consider it like a bonus and something extra to give their regular meals more nutrients.

Foods high in salt, sugar, oils, or artificial flavors can harm your bird’s stomach or even damage its internal organs over time. Even small amounts of cookies and chips can be harmful, so always choose fresh foods and stay away from processed or packaged ones.

I discovered that cockatiels do best when you give them tiny pieces of soft food. Spend some time learning about their interests.

Top 10 Safe Human Foods for Cockatiels to Eat

1. Cooked Rice

Cooked rice is a great food to offer your cockatiel every now and then. It is easy to eat and gives your bird a boost of energy thanks to its healthy carbohydrates. I like to use plain white or brown rice, with no salt or butter added. Make sure the rice is fully cooked and cooled before serving it. I often mix a spoonful with chopped vegetables for a tasty treat.

2. Boiled Eggs

Boiled eggs are one of the best sources of protein and calcium for cockatiels. This is helpful during molting season or when a bird is recovering from illness. Eggs help build strong feathers and bones. Just boil the egg fully, chop it into tiny pieces, and let it cool before feeding. You can give a small amount once a week. Be sure not to leave it in the cage for too long, or it could spoil.

3. Carrots (Raw or Cooked)

Carrots are full of vitamin A, which is important for your cockatiel’s eyes and immune system. I usually offer them raw by cutting them into thin sticks or grating them. Some birds also enjoy soft, cooked carrots. They love the crunch and bright color, and it’s good for their beak health too. Always wash the carrots well before serving.

4. Apples (No Seeds)

Apples are sweet and rich in vitamin C and fiber. My cockatiels always get excited when they see me cutting apples. But it’s very important to remove the seeds, as they can be toxic. Cut the apple into small pieces, and make sure it’s fresh. I like to peel the skin off too, especially if it’s not organic, to avoid pesticides.

5. Spinach and Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and romaine lettuce are great additions to your bird’s diet. They’re full of vitamins A, K, and folate, which support your bird’s blood and bone health. However, greens like spinach should be given in moderation because they contain oxalates, which can block calcium absorption if fed too often. I usually serve a mix of greens once or twice a week, and my birds love nibbling on the leaves.

6. Cooked Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes are another option. They’re soft and loaded with beta-carotene and fiber. I steam or boil them until tender, then mash them up or cut them into small pieces. Always serve sweet potatoes plain, with no butter, sugar, or salt. This warm food is especially nice during the colder months.

7. Whole Grain Bread (Occasionally)

Whole grain bread can be given once in a while as a special treat. It provides fiber and energy, but it must be completely free from added sugar, salt, or preservatives. I tear off a tiny corner (about the size of a fingernail) and offer it by hand. My birds usually peck at it with curiosity. Just remember not to overdo it. Bread should never be a daily snack.

8. Blueberries and Strawberries

Fresh berries are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. They’re also fun for cockatiels to eat. I usually cut strawberries into small pieces and offer whole blueberries (just one or two at a time). Make sure to wash them well to remove any pesticides. My birds get so excited when they see a juicy berry coming their way!

9. Peas and Corn (Cooked or Raw)

Peas and corn are full of natural sugars and protein, making them great for cockatiels who need a little extra energy. You can serve them raw, cooked, or thawed from frozen. Just make sure they’re plain, no butter or seasonings. I like to mix peas and corn with cooked rice or mashed sweet potato.

10. Oatmeal (Plain and Cooked)

Oatmeal is a healthy food that’s perfect for cooler weather. Use plain rolled oats, cook them with water, and let the oatmeal cool before serving. Don’t use flavored packets, as they contain sugar and artificial flavors. I serve about a teaspoon at a time and sometimes mix in a bit of chopped fruit for extra flavor.

Unsafe Human Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Cockatiel

While it’s fun to share snacks with your bird, some human foods can be very dangerous even deadly. These foods should always be avoided:

• Avocado

Avocados contain a toxin called Persin that is very harmful to birds. Even a small piece can cause breathing problems or worse. Never give your cockatiel avocado in any form.

• Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance that is poisonous to birds. It can cause seizures or death, so always keep chocolate far away from your cockatiel.

• Caffeine and Alcohol

Both caffeine and alcohol are extremely dangerous to birds. They affect the heart, brain, and liver and can lead to serious health issues. Even a sip is too much.

• Onions and Garlic

These strong-smelling vegetables can damage a bird’s digestive system and blood cells. Even cooked onions or garlic in food can be harmful, so it’s best to avoid them completely.

• Sugary, Salty, and Fried Foods

Human junk food might taste good to us, but it’s very bad for cockatiels. These foods can lead to obesity, liver problems, and other health issues. Stick to natural, healthy treats instead.

Tips for Introducing New Foods to Your Cockatiel

Getting your cockatiel to try new foods takes time and patience. Birds can be picky, especially if they are used to eating seeds only. I found that offering new foods in small amounts and praising the bird when it tries something can really help.

Start with just one new food at a time so you can watch for any signs of upset stomach or allergies. Offer the new food at the same time each day so it becomes part of their routine. And if your bird refuses it at first, don’t worry try again the next day. Sometimes they just need time to get used to the look and smell.

Feeding Cockatiels Human Foods

Feeding your cockatiel healthy human food is a great way to add variety to their diet and keep them excited at mealtime. There are many human foods safe for cockatiels to eat, but it’s important to feed them correctly and avoid anything dangerous.

Focus on plain, natural, fresh foods, and always watch how your bird responds to new treats. A happy cockatiel is a healthy cockatiel and giving them safe, tasty food is one of the best ways to show them love.

If you’re ever unsure about a food, it’s always a good idea to talk to an avian vet. They can help you make the best choices for your feathered friend.