The best canary treats are fresh greens, small pieces of fruit, millet spray, egg food and the occasional seed stick. A cuttlebone or mineral block should be in the cage at all times, but it is a calcium supplement, not a treat. Treats should stay under about 10 percent of what your canary eats, with a good seed or pellet mix making up the rest.
Best treats for canaries
- Leafy greens: Romaine, endive, dandelion greens, chickweed and spinach (in small amounts) can be offered most days. Wash them well and remove leftovers before they wilt.
- Fruit: Small pieces of apple (no seeds), pear, grape, berries and orange are popular. Offer fruit a few times a week, since too much can cause loose droppings. See our list of fruits and vegetables for canaries.
- Egg food: A protein-rich soft food made from hard-boiled egg, or a commercial egg food, is especially helpful during breeding and molting. Learn how in our homemade egg food for canaries guide.
- Millet spray: Many canaries enjoy pecking at spray millet. Treat it like candy, though, because it is high in fat. A few inches a few times a week is plenty.
- Seed or fruit sticks: Commercial treat sticks add variety and give your bird something to chew. Check the label and choose ones made without artificial colors or added sugar.
- Sprouted seeds: Soaked and sprouted seed is a healthy fresh food, as long as you rinse it and remove uneaten portions quickly so it does not spoil.
Cuttlebone and mineral blocks
Cuttlebone is a good source of calcium and gives your canary something to wear its beak on. Leave it in the cage and replace it when it is worn down. Mineral blocks and iodine blocks are also available, though a well-fed canary on a quality diet may not need them. Ask an avian vet if you are unsure whether your bird needs extra minerals.
Grit
Canaries hull their seed before eating it, so many avian vets say they do not need grit and too much can cause problems. If you are considering it, check with your vet first.
Foods canaries should never have
- Avocado, which is toxic to birds
- Chocolate, caffeine and alcohol
- Onion and garlic
- Apple seeds and fruit pits
- Salty, fried or sugary human snacks
For a full list of what to feed, see our canary food list and our guide on what to feed a canary.
Bottom Line
Fresh greens, a little fruit, egg food and occasional millet are the best canary treats. Keep treats small, remove fresh food after a few hours and always keep fresh water available. If your canary stops eating or its droppings change, call an avian vet.
This article is general information and not veterinary advice.
