Wild pigeons may also eat small snails, insects, and earthworms, something that most pet pigeons don’t have access to. Too often owners assume they are feeding a proper diet to their pigeon or dove when in fact they are not! Placing these powders on seeds or dried foods is of little value since it will ultimately end up on the bottom of the food dish and not in the bird. Always choose healthy birds and responsible breeders. There are many good brands of pelleted foods in the market place. It is not sufficient to feed a pigeon or dove just to maintain life; instead, your goal should be to help it thrive and flourish. If you’ve ever tried to purchase birdseed at a pet store, you know that there are many different kinds and mixes, which can make it difficult to determine which is the best pigeon food. For pigeons: For doves: Base diet (seed or pellets) Pigeons and doves do best when meal … Continue reading … This is a common reason for many health problems. This is due both to heightened awareness of the importance of nutrition and to increased research into birds different needs. They need the right blend and amount of many nutrients to support good health, protect their immune systems, and make them happy and content birds. Some experts recommend making about half of your pigeon’s diet in the form of pellets. Offer a variety of fresh foods every day. Pigeonpedia is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, this means we earn from any qualifying purchases you make through Amazon links. Seeds Formulated pigeon seed diets are available. Treats such as millet spray and fresh foods. Buying a Pigeon. Nutrition is commonly neglected with pet birds. Grapes and apples are ideal choices, but you can mix and match them to see what your pigeon likes best. If you have a pet pigeon, you have a good opportunity to provide it with an optimal diet, something that isn’t always possible for wild pigeons. Pigeon breeders and racers use a poultry vitamin because they need a bulk type supplement. Cut them into manageable pieces depending on the size of the bird. The best way to make sure your pigeon is getting the food it needs is to let it out of its cage and allow it to seek its food from where you leave it around the house. Offer fruits and vegetables in a separate dish. Good choices include spinach and other dark leafy greens. Learn more. You can supplement the pigeons regular diet with lettuce, endive, chickweed, spinach, berries, apple, and pears. Nutrition is commonly neglected with pet birds. Pellets are the ideal diet, therefore you are encouraged to slowly wean seed eating birds onto a pelleted diet. Pet … Be sure your bird always has access to a water source. Seeds should only be 50% of a balanced diet, never the entire diet. As a general rule, any wholesome, nutritious food that you and your family eat your bird can eat. Avoid sugary treats like honey sticks. But the Lafeber vitamins are fine for your pigeons and generally a better balance than the … Birds seem to do fine without grit. You can mix this yourself or buy a formulated product that’s created specifically for pigeons. In actual fact, pigeons eat almost continually. iceberg or head lettuce, celery) offer very little nutritional value. This protein generally comes from plant sources, but you can often find the ideal protein balance in pigeon feed that is formulated for homing and racing pigeons. Berries are a good choice from time to time. It can be their main diet or you can mix it with fruits and vegetables to become more appetizing. Your veterinarian can help you assess your bird's diet and its particular needs. Dairy products should be consumed in moderation. If you have a pet pigeon, you have a good opportunity to provide it with an optimal diet, something that isn’t always possible for wild pigeons. This is a common reason for many health problems. In addition to seeds, be sure your pet pigeon is getting some grains in its diet. Wild pigeons spend a lot more time scavenging for food than a pet pigeon. If you worry that it might have a deficiency of a certain nutrient, talk to your veterinarian about what signs to look for. However, you want to make sure your pigeon isn’t overeating, as this can be harmful and can lead to certain health problems. For that reason, try to offer your pet a variety of seeds instead of the same one all the time. Water Fresh clean water must be available at all times. Your bird's health depends on how well it is fed. Pigeon Care. Feeding Your Pet Pigeon. Considerations before getting a pigeon as pet; Adoptions and Forums.