Seed-based diets fed to most pet parrots are nutritionally deficient, causing chronic health problems that significantly shorten lifespan and reduce quality of life.
Chronic malnutrition in pet parrots causes significant long-term suffering through vitamin deficiencies, immune problems, and organ damage. Many owners believe seed diets are appropriate because birds eat them readily, but palatability does not indicate nutritional adequacy. Transitioning to nutritionally complete diets dramatically improves parrot welfare and longevity.