Can Birds Eat Cabbage?

Do you have some leftover cabbage you’re considering adding to your bird feeder? Rich in vitamins and fiber, cabbage can indeed be a healthy choice for birds–but only if served raw. Let’s look at the safety of serving cabbage in its different forms (and several you want to avoid!)

background image of heads of cabbage with cartoon overlay of bird in center of image

Nutritional Value of Cabbage for Birds

Cabbage is packed with essential nutrients beneficial for birds. It is a great source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can support a bird’s overall health.

Birds That Enjoy Cabbage

While many birds might not be inclined to peck at cabbage, several species commonly enjoy leafy greens, including:

Backyard Birds: Species like sparrows, finches, and doves might sample cabbage if it is available in a bird-friendly form.
Chickens: If you keep backyard chickens, they will typically peck at cabbage enthusiastically.

Serving Cabbage to Birds

Wash Thoroughly: Ensure the cabbage is well-washed to remove any pesticides or chemicals.
Chop or Shred: Cut the cabbage into small pieces or shred it to make it easier for birds to eat and digest.
Raw is Best! Serve cabbage raw, as cooking can reduce some of its nutritional benefits.
Offer Sparingly: Introduce cabbage into your birds’ diet gradually and in small amounts to prevent digestive upset.

Precautions When Feeding Cabbage to Birds

Moderation is Key: Although cabbage is healthy, it should only be a small part of a bird’s diet to ensure nutritional balance.
Monitor Reactions: Observe how different birds react to cabbage, as some may be more receptive to it than others.

Can Birds Eat Coleslaw?

While cabbage is a big part of coleslaw, do you NOT want to feed coleslaw or other forms of processed cabbage to birds because of the additional ingredients like mayonnaise or spices.

Can Birds Eat Sauerkraut?

Sauerkraut, while a nutritious fermented food for humans, is generally not recommended for birds.

The main concern with feeding sauerkraut to birds lies in its high sodium content. Birds have a very low tolerance for salt, and even small amounts can be detrimental to their health, potentially leading to dehydration, kidney issues, or sodium poisoning.

Additionally, the fermentation process in sauerkraut produces lactic acid and other byproducts that might not be well-tolerated by a bird’s digestive system.

Can Birds Eat Kimchi?

Similarly, Kimchi, a traditional Korean dish made from fermented vegetables and spices, is not recommended as a safe food for birds. While fermented foods can offer health benefits for humans, they can be harmful to birds due to their unique digestive systems.

The spices and seasonings commonly found in kimchi, such as garlic, onion, and chili, can be toxic to birds.

Additionally, the high salt content in kimchi is not suitable for a bird’s diet, as excess salt can lead to serious health issues.