A Guide to Proper Bird Nutrition from Kimvet Just like us, birds need a diet that keeps their bodies fueled, feathers glossy, and energy soaring. Whether you're caring for a curious cockatiel, a vibrant budgie, or a regal African Grey, giving them the proper nutrition is essential to their wellbeing—and their mood!
Balance Is Key: Feed According to Their Species
Birds aren’t one-size-fits-all when it comes to food. Each species has different nutritional needs. Some parrots thrive on pellets and fresh produce, while finches and canaries do best with specialized seed mixes. At Kimvet, we always recommend consulting with an avian-savvy vet to create a diet plan tailored to your bird’s unique physiology.
Fresh Is Fabulous: Variety Is Vital
Keep meals exciting and healthful with a rainbow of safe, fresh foods:
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Fruits: Apples, berries, melons, mangoes (no pits or seeds!)
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Vegetables: Carrots, spinach, bell peppers, broccoli
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Seeds & Pellets: High-quality, vet-approved mixes designed for their species
Offering a mix prevents nutritional deficiencies and supports a strong immune system, sharp cognition, and vibrant plumage. Rotate items weekly so they don’t get bored and picky!
Avoid the Danger Zone: Toxic Foods to Skip
Some treats we enjoy can be seriously harmful to birds. Steer clear of:
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Chocolate and caffeine—they’re toxic to avian systems
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Avocados—contain persin, which can be lethal
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Foods high in salt, sugar, or fat—bad for digestion and long-term health
If you’re unsure about a snack, don’t guess—ask us at Kimvet!
Nutrition is the cornerstone of a happy, chirpy life. Birds that eat well live longer, sing louder, and engage more with their environment. So let’s feed them with care and love—and they’ll thank us with joyful flutters and serenades. Need help tailoring your bird’s diet? Book a nutritional consultation with Kimvet today!
Pro Bird Nutrition Tips from Kimvet;
Hydration Matters Too
Always provide fresh, clean water—ideally replaced twice a day. Avoid metal containers that might rust and affect water quality.
Enrich Feeding Time
Scatter food creatively or use puzzle feeders to mentally stimulate your bird. This mimics foraging behavior and reduces boredom.

Supplement Smartly
Depending on the species and age, your bird may benefit from:
- Calcium supplements (especially for egg-laying females)
- Vitamin A, D, E (commonly lacking in seed-heavy diets) Always consult your avian vet before adding any extras.
Rotate Ingredients to Avoid Allergies
Birds can develop sensitivities over time. Regularly rotate fruits, veggies, and seeds to expose them to a variety of nutrients and reduce risk of intolerance.
Watch Portion Sizes
Overfeeding—even with healthy food—can lead to obesity, liver problems, and other issues. Learn your bird’s ideal weight range and stick to balanced meal sizes.
Read Food Labels
If you’re buying commercial treats or pellets, check for:
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No added sugar or salt
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No artificial dyes or preservatives
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Ingredients appropriate for your bird’s species
Showing 1–12 of 161 results
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Cockatiel Food 1.36 kg, Bird Food, KimVet e-Shop, Kaytee
R474.95 -
Hand Feeding Baby Birds, Birds Food, KimVet e-Shop, Kaytee
Price range: R199.64 through R885.50 -
Hand Feeding High Fat Baby Birds 2.27kg, Birds Food, KimVet e-Shop, Kaytee
R1,225.80 -
Hand Feeding Baby Macaws 2.27kg, Birds Food, KimVet e-Shop, Kaytee
R1,094.80 -
Large Parrot Food, Birds Food, KimVet e-Shop, Kaytee
Price range: R450.80 through R652.05 -
Yogurt Dips Mango Flavoured Treats 99.2g, Birds Treats, KimVet e-Shop, Kaytee
R164.22 -
Healthy Bits Treat Parrots 127g, Birds Treats, KimVet e-Shop, Kaytee
R122.36 -
Healthy Toppings Papaya Treat 70.9g, Birds Treats, KimVet e-Shop, Kaytee
R75.67 -
Avivet 100g, Birds Medicines, KimVet e-Shop, Medpet
R407.08 -
Doxybiotic Plus Powder 50g, Birds Medicines, KimVet e-Shop, Medpet
R140.86 -
Mediworm Powder 100g, Birds Medicines, KimVet e-Shop, Medpet
R92.94 -
Protexin Soluble, Cats Dogs Health Supplement, KimVet e-Shop, Kyron
Price range: R105.87 through R639.30