Cockatiel Food Guide: Seeds, Pellets and Treats Explained

Cockatiels are friendly, medium-sized birds, and their food needs a little planning. This cockatiel food guide explains seed mixes, pellets, fresh foods and treats, and how bird owners usually combine them. For a plan made for your bird, please ask an avian vet.

What cockatiels eat

Cockatiels enjoy seeds, grains, pellets, fresh vegetables and small amounts of fruit. A varied routine is easier to maintain when you know what each type of food is for.

Seed mixes

Seed mixes let a bird forage and pick. Choose a mix made for medium or small birds and check the ingredients and pack weight. CONGO has herbal seed mixes in the bird food collection.

Pellets

Pellets press the ingredients into uniform pieces, so each bite is the same. Some owners use pellets as a base and add seeds and fresh foods around them. Always change foods gradually.

Fresh foods

Many owners add chopped vegetables in small amounts. Wash everything, remove leftovers after a few hours and ask your vet which items are safe.

Treats in small amounts

Treats such as fruit sticks are best used for training or enrichment, not as a meal. CONGO's Fruitoze fruit sticks are made for small to medium birds including cockatiels.

Portion tips

• Offer a measured amount each day.
• Remove leftovers and husks before refilling.
• Keep treats small and occasional.
• Keep fresh water available at all times.

Frequently asked questions

Can cockatiels eat only seeds?

Vets usually recommend a varied diet. Ask your avian vet for advice.

How do I move my cockatiel to pellets?

Make the change slowly by mixing a little new food with the old. Your avian vet can guide you.

Which pack size should I buy?

Start with a smaller pack to test what your bird enjoys.

Explore: CONGO bird food or contact our team.