Yes, cockatiels can eat almonds. Almond nuts are a healthy and nutritious addition to your cockatiel’s daily diet. Let’s look at why almonds can be beneficial for these birds:
Almonds contain high levels of health-boosting antioxidants, including vitamin E and manganese. These nutrients protect the cells from free radical damage, which is linked with aging and cancer.
Almonds are a good source of calcium, which is important for strong bones and egg-laying hens.
Mealworms can be added to a cockatiel’s diet as a regular part of their food – the insect is rich in protein and fat. A few bugs won’t harm your bird – but feed them sparingly as it can lead to obesity.
Almond oil is part of the standard diet for zoo birds, and cockatiels would also benefit from almond oil in their food. The oils help the skin and feathers stay moist and supple, which means less preening by the bird – and a healthier bird overall.
The best way to feed your cockatiel almonds is to buy raw or roasted nuts. These can be easily crushed or chopped for your pet, and should only make up around 1% of their daily diet.
ALWAYS make sure you remove all uneaten almonds (and any other food) from the cage after a few hours, otherwise, they could go rancid and make your cockatiel sick.
Can cockatiels eat raw almonds?
Yes, cockatiels can eat raw almonds. Raw almonds have not been processed in any way, so they are as nutritious as the roasted variety.
Can cockatiels eat almonds off the ground?
No, cockatiels should never eat almonds from the ground as there may be pesticides on them that could make your bird sick.
How many almonds can a cockatiel eat a day?
A few almonds are fine for a cockatiel to eat, but they must only make up around 1% of their daily diet. More than this can lead to obesity.
Can cockatiels eat almonds shells?
No, cockatiels should never eat almonds shells as there may be a toxin on them that could make your bird sick. Shells must never be given to cockatiels under any circumstances.
Can cockatiels eat roasted almonds?
Yes, cockatiels can eat roasted almonds. Roasted almonds have not been processed in any way, so they are as nutritious as the raw variety.
Can cockatiels drink almond milk?
No, cockatiels should never drink almond milk as there are too many additives in it that could make your bird sick.
Can cockatiels eat almond flakes?
Yes, cockatiels can eat almond flakes. The same rules apply for feeding almonds to cockatiels as outlined above – make sure the flaked nuts only make up around 1% of your pet’s daily diet.
What is almond paste, and can cockatiels eat it?
Almond paste is a mixture of ground almonds and sugar, which has been cooked into a thick spread. It is mostly used to make cakes and puddings, but cockatiels should never eat it. There are too many additives in almond paste that could make your cockatiels sick.
What if my cockatiel has eaten large amounts of almond?
If your cockatiel has eaten a large number of almonds then you should call a vet as soon as possible. Symptoms to look out for include vomiting, heavy breathing, diarrhea, and drowsiness.
