Feeding your cockatoo the right diet is one of the most important parts of keeping them healthy, happy, and full of life. While pellets and vegetables form the foundation, fruits for cockatoos play a key supporting role. Packed with natural vitamins, hydration, and flavour, fruits offer both nutrition and enrichment when served the right way.

In this post, we'll explore which fruits are best for cockatoos, how often to feed them, and what to avoid, so your feathered friend can enjoy a safe and delicious diet.

Why Offer Fruits to Cockatoos?

In the wild, cockatoos feed on a varied diet of seeds, nuts, berries, and fruits. Mimicking that diversity in captivity helps support their digestion, immune system, and mental stimulation. Fruits for cockatoos provide:

• Hydration, especially in warmer weather
• Essential nutrients, like vitamin A, C, and antioxidants
• Natural foraging opportunities, encouraging healthy behaviours

But not all fruits are safe, and too much of a good thing can lead to weight gain or digestive upset. Aim to offer fresh fruit as no more than 10–15% of your cockatoo's overall diet.

Best Fruits for Cockatoos

Let's take a closer look at the top fruits that are both safe and beneficial for cockatoos:

Apples (seedless)

Apples are a favourite among parrots of all types. They're crisp, juicy, and a great source of vitamin C and fibre. The texture helps stimulate the beak, and the mild sweetness is usually well received. Just make sure to remove all seeds and the core, as apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which is toxic to birds.

Bananas

Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin B6, and magnesium. Their soft texture makes them easy for birds of all ages to eat, especially older cockatoos or those recovering from illness. Because of their high sugar content, serve bananas in small portions and not every day.

Mango

Mangoes are loaded with vitamin A, an essential nutrient for maintaining healthy eyes, skin, and feathers. Cockatoos love the rich, tropical flavour. Be sure to peel the fruit and remove the core before serving. You can offer mango in small cubes or mashed into foraging toys for extra enrichment.

Berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries)

These antioxidant-rich fruits are among the healthiest fruits for cockatoos. Berries support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and are low in calories and sugar compared to many other fruits. Their small size makes them ideal for training treats or for placing in foraging trays to encourage natural food-searching behaviour.

Pears (seedless)

Pears are gentle on the digestive system and contain both fibre and vitamin C. Their high water content also supports hydration. Offer them peeled or with the skin on (if organic), and always remove the seeds. Pears are particularly good for cockatoos prone to constipation or those needing a little digestive support.

Melons (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew)

Melons are highly hydrating and a good source of vitamin A and C. Watermelon, in particular, is a refreshing treat during warmer months. Remove the rind and seeds, and cut the flesh into chunks. The high water content means these fruits should be fed in moderation to avoid loose droppings.

Kiwi

Kiwi is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, making it a nutrient-dense addition to your bird's diet. The slightly tangy taste is often a hit with cockatoos. Remove the skin and slice the fruit thinly before offering. Kiwi can also help with digestion thanks to its fibre content.

Grapes

Sweet, juicy, and full of natural sugars, grapes are best offered as an occasional treat. Opt for seedless varieties and wash them thoroughly. They're easy to serve whole for larger cockatoos or halved for smaller individuals. Due to their sugar content, limit grapes to just a couple at a time.

Pomegranate

Pomegranate seeds are not only safe, but also great fun for cockatoos to pick out. This fruit is bursting with antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health and tissue repair. Scoop out the seeds and let your bird forage through them in a dish or foraging toy. Be prepared for a bit of a mess, but it's well worth it.

Fruits Cockatoos Should Avoid

Some fruits can be harmful or even toxic. Be sure to avoid:

• Avocado – contains persin, which is toxic to birds
• Apple seeds and stone fruits (like peaches and cherries) - contain cyanide compounds
• Unripe tomatoes - can be difficult to digest
• Citrus fruits in excess – too much acidity may irritate the digestive system

Even safe fruits should be introduced gradually and in moderation. Observe your cockatoo for any changes in droppings or behaviour after introducing new foods.

Safe Feeding Tips

When feeding fruits to cockatoos, follow these simple tips for maximum safety and benefit:

• Wash all fruit thoroughly to remove pesticides and dirt
• Choose organic whenever possible, especially for soft-skinned fruits like berries and grapes
• Cut into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking
• Remove uneaten fruit within a few hours to prevent spoilage
• Rotate the types of fruits you offer to provide variety and avoid overfeeding any single type

If you're ever unsure about a particular fruit, consult an avian veterinarian or a trusted parrot care source.

Trusted Fruit-Based Treats for Cockatoos

At Parrot Essentials, we understand how important it is to feed your bird safely and well. That's why we stock a curated range of healthy parrot treats, including options made with dried natural fruits for cockatoos. These are perfect for adding variety to your cockatoo's diet, without the mess or spoilage of fresh fruit.

Explore our Cockatoo Treats Collection for high-quality options your bird will love.

Final Thoughts on Fruits for Cockatoos

Adding fresh fruit to your cockatoo's diet is a simple yet powerful way to support their well-being, strengthen your bond, and enrich their daily routine. From the vitamin-rich punch of berries to the hydrating sweetness of melon, the right fruit, served correctly, can make a world of difference.

Just remember: when it comes to fruits for cockatoos, variety and moderation are key.

Want to swap fruit ideas or show off your cockatoo's favourite snack? Join the conversation in our Parrot Essentials Facebook Group and connect with a passionate community of bird lovers.