Healthy diet?

[tandyy]

I want to make sure I'm not on the track for obesity with my GCC, I keep roudybush crumbles and change out maybe weekly mostly just topping off, with sensible seed mix in another dish changing that out every three days or so (he seems to really like those lil white seeds) so just dumping out the pumpkin seeds along with the yellow pellets he doesnt want lol. I know roudy bush states it should be used solely but I love seeing him enjoy the vareity. will giving him access to both cause any issues?

 

[Anansi]

Hello, and welcome to the Parrot Forums family!

The current diet for your GCC is not as healthy as it could be. While your instinct is correct in that variety is good, seeds shouldn't be a main staple of his diet. They are too fatty, and could lead to arteriosclerosis. Now, seeds are not bad in and of themselves. Its only overindulgence that causes a problem. So give them to him as treats.

Remember also that almost every bird will fill up on the seeds first, and then nibble at the pellets as an afterthought. This is likely why you only find yourself refilling that cup weekly.

For the variety you have been seeking, try filling that other cup with veggies, sprouts, grains, and fruits. Keep in mind, though, that cup would need to be changed out for morning and evening meals. So a bit more work, but soooooo worth it.

And also, the transition will need to be a gradual one. Don't just make the change overnight. Hope this helps.

 

[Scott]

Welcome, thanks for seeking the optimum diet for your GCC. Parrots often resist diet modification, so patience and the long view is best.

Might find this thread helpful: http://www.parrotforums.com/parrot-...7-converting-parrots-healthier-diet-tips.html

If you begin to offer "chop," (fresh veggies and fruits) it is helpful to withdraw seeds/pellets as enticement to try new foods. One trick I often use is preparing two identical bowls, one for you and the other for bird. Parrots are flock eaters, and you are a member of the flock. Begin eating from yours, bobbing your head and making "mmmm" sounds. Tends to work very well!

 

[noodles123]

I think that a limited number of seeds mixed with the pellets would be fine. No sunflower seeds (unless as treats). Most birds should have SOME seed, but not just seed and not too much...There are healthier seeds compared to some others as well.

My cockatoo eats a mix of pellets and seeds and she recovered from a liver condition while doing so (not one I started FYI--came to me that way).
Ultimately, you want some seeds, but mainly pellets and chop (more veg than fruit).
That having been said, don't do anything cold-turkey--- they have been known to starve out of pure stubbornness and if they start to avoid eating, blood sugar issues occur quickly.

 

[GaleriaGila]

My three cents, for your consideration...

Here's what I use.
http://www.harrisonsbirdfoods.com/
I feed Harrison's, supplemented by fresh healthy treats. My first, and later, my current avian vet recommended it. My bird loves the pellets now, but to get him converted, my avian vet suggested putting pellets out all day, and putting seeds (his old diet) out for two 15-minute periods a day. That would sustain him but leave him hungry enough to try new stuff. I presume the same technique could be used to get him to eat other healthy stuff, like fruits and vegetables! My guy was eating pellets in a couple of days, and now I can feed a good variety of other stuff, knowing he has the pellets as a basic. Pellets are out all day... fresh treats a few times a day. I also like Harrison's via mail because I never have to worry about out-of-date products.

Good for you, for caring, and reaching out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!