As with any other pet, it is important that you ensure that your pet bird is fed a balanced nutritional diet. It is very important to first research the species of your pet bird and learn about their specific dietary needs. This will ensure that you are able to create a healthy and happy environment for your family pet.

Traditionally, the basic diet of most pet birds has been a variety of seeds with many pet owners are led to believe that this is adequate in fulfilling your pet birds dietary requirements. Wrong! An all-seed diet is very high in fat and very low in vitamins. It could cause severe liver damage and will in most cases cause and early death. The amount of seed you feed your pet bird is dependent on the amount of exercise it receives on a daily basis.

Pelletted foods are scientifically developed to provide all the nutrition your bird requires. They contain the right balance of vitamins, minerals and trace elements, calcium, phosphorous and amino acids to ensure your bird will enjoy a healthy, long life.

You can add fruit and vegetables for variety as they provide additional vitamins. Ensure that the food is always washed well get rid of all residues of fertilisers and pesticides on the surface. Also, never leave fresh food in your bird's cage for more than a few hours – spoiled fruit and vegetables can make a bird very sick.

Natural yoghurt is an excellent source of protein and calcium. Any form of milk products must be cultured – such as cottage cheese, cheese, yoghurt and sour cream. Other snacks could include cooked egg, toast or bread with peanut butter, low salt cheese, noodles, etc.

Special treats for your pet bird could include a 1cm block of cheddar cheese (once a week), a chicken or chop bone with bits of meat on it, any tasty piece of fresh fruit, sunflower seeds, peanuts or pecan nuts.

Avoid foods that contain large amounts of salt, sugar, fat or oil. Never give your bird alcoholic beverages, avocado, raw cabbage, caffeine, chocolate, eggplant, mushrooms, raw onion, green parts of potatoes and rhubarb leaves..

While your bird will enjoy sampling from your plate, never let him eat out of your mouth or off a utensil you have put in your mouth as the bacteria in your mouth can make the bird very ill.

Birds can be very picky eaters and will generally eat what they are used to. When changing your bird's diet, remember to be very patient and allow your bird to get used to the new food.

Water is vital for your bird. Remember water must be changed at least twice a day, even if it looks clean.

Visit www. petwise.co.za and read more about pet nutrition and pet care. You can also learn about reliable manufacturers in the pet food industry, who are also members of the Pet Food Industry (PFI) Association.