Vitapol Apple is a mineral block for parrots with dried apple. Ingredients: calcium carbonate and dried apple (4%); technological additives — preservatives. Analytical constituents: calcium 36.3% to 40.8%, phosphorus at least 0.01%, sodium 0.01% to 0.61%. According to the description, it is a mineral supplement to the daily diet: calcium is needed for the proper development and growth of bones, claws and feathers from the first days of life. The block is recommended for daily use.
What the manufacturer claims
Vitapol calls the block a mineral supplement to the daily diet and focuses on calcium for bones, claws and feathers. The description also says it prevents rickets. The apple adds flavour and aroma so the bird pecks at it more willingly.
Key specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | mineral block |
| For | parrots |
| Base | calcium carbonate |
| Dried apple | 4% |
| Calcium | 36.3–40.8% |
| Phosphorus | at least 0.01% |
| Sodium | 0.01–0.61% |
| Weight | not stated in the listing |
Pros
- Short formula. Calcium carbonate and apple.
- Lots of calcium. 36–41% — a concentrated source.
- Apple. The flavour attracts the bird.
- Beak wear. A hard block.
- Analysis in figures. Calcium, phosphorus and sodium are stated.
- For daily access. Can stay in the cage permanently.
Cons and what to watch
- No weight or size. Unclear which parrot sizes it suits.
- Preservatives not named. Just "preservatives".
- "Prevents rickets" is a simplification. Without vitamin D3 and light, calcium is poorly absorbed.
- No fitting instructions. It does not say how to hang it.
Why a parrot needs calcium
Calcium is needed for bones, beak, claws and feathers. Hens use a great deal of it when laying: with a deficiency, eggs have thin shells and the bird weakens. Seed mixes are low in calcium, so a mineral block or cuttlebone in the cage is a basic requirement.
Calcium and vitamin D3
To absorb calcium, a bird needs vitamin D3. It comes from ultraviolet light — sunlight not filtered through glass or a special lamp — or from food with added vitamins. Without it, even plenty of calcium will not prevent bone problems. So the "prevents rickets" claim holds only together with proper lighting and diet.
How to hang it
Fix the block to the cage bars near a perch so the parrot can reach it easily. Do not hang it above the food or water dish: crumbs will fall into them. Replace the block when it is worn down or soiled with droppings. If several birds share the cage, hang two blocks in different places.
If the parrot ignores it
Some birds ignore a new object at first. Hang the block closer to a favourite perch and wait a few days. If the parrot still will not peck at it, calcium can be offered another way — for example, as grit with shell: Versele-Laga Prestige Marine.
Main diet
The block is a mineral supplement, not food. The diet should still be based on a seed mix, such as Special One for budgies, plus greens and vegetables. For variety and beak activity, crackers work well, such as the Vitakraft fruit cracker.
Too much calcium
Birds usually regulate how much they peck. But if a parrot gnaws the block constantly and a lot, it may signal a deficiency of other nutrients or boredom. Do not combine several calcium supplements without a vet's advice: excess calcium is also harmful, especially for the kidneys.
Who it suits
The block suits budgies and other parrots as a constant calcium source and a way to wear down the beak — especially hens before laying and young birds. More products are in bird treats and vitamins.
Verdict
Vitapol Apple is a simple calcium carbonate block with apple that gives a parrot calcium and wears down the beak. The downsides are that the listing gives no weight or size, the preservatives are not named, and the "prevents rickets" claim works only together with vitamin D3 and proper lighting.
FAQ
What does it contain?
Calcium carbonate and dried apple 4%.
How much calcium?
From 36.3% to 40.8%.
How often should I give it?
Daily; the block can stay in the cage all the time.
Which parrots is it for?
Parrots; the block's size is not stated in the listing.
Does it protect against rickets?
Only together with vitamin D3 and ultraviolet light.
Is it suitable for budgies?
Yes.
When should the block be replaced?
When it is worn down or soiled.
