Birds are incredible friends, and when properly looked after, can live long & healthy lives. Whether you're feeding parakeets and budgies, or wild birds outside, we have the knowledge and experience to help guide you to the perfect food. All bird's dietary needs are different, and what works best for some will not provide adequate nutrition for others. Therefore, we proudly provide the Spindale Rutherfordton area with the very best food for your feathered friends, improving their health and extending their lives.
Wild bird vs pet bird food:
Wild bird food, depending on where you live, is usually a mix of different types of seeds, including thistle, sunflower, safflower, millet, and sorghum. Additionally, several wild bird feeds include peanuts and corn, which are preferred by certain species like cardinals and blue jays. Wild bird food is diverse in order to attract as many different species as possible. So while it satisfies their calorie requirements, it's not dialed-in nutritionally like domestic bird food.
Domestic bird food is generally a blend of similar seeds, with nutritionally dense pellets added in. Conures, doves, and pigeons enjoy millet, as do budgies and parakeets. They also enjoy safflower and sunflower seeds when they're hulled, though parrots and hookbills will prefer larger seed types.
Food for pets will have prebiotic fiber and probiotic ingredients included, along with a selection of various other natural seeds and fruits. These strengthen the immune and digestive function of your birds, and more closely imitate their natural diet, which would not usually include a few types of seeds.
Ensuring adequate nutrition:
Birds need prebiotics and probiotics to keep their digestive functions working smoothly. Omega-3 fatty acids from nuts and seeds supply fat for their brains and nerves, and boosts the gloss and shine of their feathers, while the various vitamins and micronutrients keep them healthy overall. Additionally, as your bird ages, you will want to speak with a professional on what type of food you should be feeding them. Younger birds have different nutritional needs than older birds, and changing their food requires care and needs to be done gradually, as birds can have finicky digestive systems. Gradually include the new food into your bird's dish, replacing more of the old seed with the new food every day to ensure proper adherence to the new diet.
At Rutherford Pet Supply, we focus on making sure your bird is provided with the best nutrition for their specific needs. Whether you're feeding wild birds in your yard, or a parakeet in your home, our friendly, professional team has your back. If you're in the Spindale Rutherfordton area, give us a call at (828) 248-2336 and we can help improve your bird's feed for a long, healthy life.