Vitakraft Menu for cockatiels, 1 kg is a staple seed food from the German brand Vitakraft for cockatiels and other medium-sized parrots. It's based on millet (52.2%) and seeds (26.7%, including 20% sunflower), plus a little peanut, plant products and minerals. The mix is enriched with the Vital complex with iodine, vitamins A and D3 and beta-glucans for immunity. It has no colourings, preservatives or flavourings and comes in a zip-lock bag.
What it is and who makes it
Vitakraft is a German maker of food for birds and small animals. The Menu range is a balanced everyday diet base for different bird species. The medium parrot version suits cockatiels and other birds of similar size, covering their basic needs for energy, vitamins and minerals.
Ingredients and analysis
Cereals (millet 52.2%), seeds 26.7% (sunflower seeds 20%), minerals, nuts (peanuts 0.5%), vegetable by-products, honey (0.02%), oils and fats, and yeast (beta-glucans 80 mg/kg). Per kg it adds vitamin A (6000 IU), vitamin D3 (600 IU), iodine, manganese and zinc.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Millet | 52.2% |
| Seeds (sunflower) | 26.7% (20%) |
| Vitamin A / D3 | 6000 / 600 IU per kg |
| Iodine | about 5 mg per kg |
| Daily amount | 15–20 g (2 tablespoons) |
Pros
- Iodine and minerals. The Vital complex helps prevent deficiencies.
- Vitamins A and D3. For metabolism and strong bones.
- Beta-glucans. The Immun Aktiv complex for immunity.
- No colourings or preservatives. A natural seed mix.
- Zip-lock bag. Keeps the food fresh for longer.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- Lots of sunflower. 20% fatty seeds; inactive birds put on weight.
- Seeds only. Without fresh vegetables and greens the diet is incomplete.
- Selective feeding. A cockatiel may eat only the sunflower seeds.
- Contains honey. A trace amount (0.02%) for flavour.
How to feed
The maker recommends about 2 tablespoons (15–20 g) a day. Give a fresh portion daily after blowing off the husks, since a bird can go hungry in a bowl full of empty husks. If the sunflower seeds go first and the millet is left, don't top up until the cockatiel finishes the rest. Change the water every day and wash the drinker.
What to add to a cockatiel's diet
A seed mix is the base, not the whole diet. Offer a little fresh vegetables and greens daily, fruit occasionally, and sprouted seeds. A mineral block and cuttlebone provide calcium. Never give avocado, chocolate, coffee, or salty and fatty table food. Bird vitamins and treats are in treats and vitamins for birds.
Exercise and weight
Cockatiels that sit in the cage all day quickly gain weight on fatty seeds. Let your bird fly around the room every day under supervision, and provide toys and perches of different thicknesses. The cage should be roomy enough for the cockatiel to spread its wings. You can choose one in bird cages.
Who it suits
Cockatiels and other medium parrots, as their main daily food alongside vegetables and greens. Budgies have their own food, Vitakraft Premium Menu, and their care is covered in budgie food and care. Other foods are in bird food.
Verdict
Vitakraft Menu for cockatiels is a simple, clear seed base with iodine, vitamins and beta-glucans and no colourings or preservatives. It works best with daily vegetables, greens, flying time and making sure the bird eats more than just sunflower seeds.
How to switch a bird to a new food
Parrots are conservative eaters and may take a while to accept unfamiliar seeds. Switch gradually: for the first few days mix Vitakraft Menu into the old food, then increase its share over 1–2 weeks. Make sure the cockatiel is actually eating rather than just shelling husks by weighing it on kitchen scales every few days. If its weight drops, it sits fluffed up and lethargic, or its droppings change, see an avian vet right away, as small birds deteriorate quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much food does a cockatiel need a day?
About 2 tablespoons, or 15–20 g.
What is the food based on?
Millet (52.2%) and seeds, including sunflower (20%).
Does it contain vitamins?
Yes, vitamins A and D3, iodine, manganese and zinc.
Does it contain colourings?
No, it has no colourings, preservatives or flavourings.
Is it suitable for budgies?
It's for medium parrots; budgies are better off with their own food.
Are vegetables and greens needed?
Yes, they're an essential complement to the seed mix.
