Treats for Budgies: What to Give and What to Avoid

Treats are a fun way to bond with your budgie, but not all treats are good for them. Find out which treats are safe and how to use them responsibly. 

Treats are a wonderful way to bond with your budgie, encourage training, and add some fun variety to their diet. But not all treats are safe or healthy — it’s important to choose wisely and give treats in moderation.

Here’s what to know about giving treats your budgie will love and stay safe with.

✅ SAFE TREATS TO OFFER

These treats are healthy, tasty, and perfect for rewarding good behavior or just spoiling your bird a little:

• Millet spray — a classic favorite and great for training

• Small pieces of fresh fruit (apple, banana, berries, mango) — given sparingly

• Boiled egg (tiny bits) — a good occasional protein boost

• Sprouted seeds — full of nutrients and easy to digest

• Whole grain bread crust (plain, unsalted, tiny piece)

• Leafy greens (like spinach or kale) — extra vitamins and fiber

• Cheerios or plain puffed rice (unsweetened and salt-free)

🟢 Remember: Treats should only make up about 5–10% of your budgie’s total diet.

🚫 TREATS TO AVOID

Some common human snacks and foods can be very harmful or even deadly for budgies:

• Chocolate — toxic even in tiny amounts

• Avocado — deadly to birds

• Caffeine (coffee, tea, soda)

• Salty or sugary snacks (chips, candy, cookies)

• Onion and garlic

• Alcohol

• Fatty or fried foods

• Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)

• Seeds from fruits like apples or cherries (contain cyanide)

🧡 TREAT TIME TIPS

• Use treats as rewards for training or good behavior

• Avoid giving treats right before meals so they don’t fill up and skip healthy food

• Introduce new treats slowly and watch for any digestive upset

• Keep treat portions very small — budgies are tiny and don’t need much!