Foods to Avoid for Macaws Parrot: Keep Your Feathered Friend Safe

So, you’ve got a macaw, huh? Then you already know these birds will try to eat whatever you’re eating. My blue and gold macaw, Rio, once tried to snatch my pancake right off the plate (syrup dripping and all). He looked so proud of himself until I remembered that some of our foods can actually make parrots really sick.

You won’t believe this, but a few bites of the wrong thing could actually harm your bird. So, here’s what I think—we need to talk about foods to avoid for macaws, why they’re bad news, and what you can give instead without taking away all the fun of mealtime.

1. Avocado The Silent Danger

Let’s start with the big one avocado. Yeah, I know it’s healthy for us, but not for parrots. It’s got this toxin called persin that can mess up their breathing, heart, and, in some cases, even lead to death. Scary, right?

So, no guac for your feathered buddy.
Try instead: little bites of apple, papaya, or mango—they’re sweet, juicy, and totally safe.

2. Chocolate – Not as Sweet as It Seems

Okay, I get it when your macaw gives you that adorable “Can I have some?” look, it’s hard to resist. But chocolate’s a big no-no. It’s got theobromine and caffeine, and both can make your parrot super sick—think vomiting, shaking, or even heart problems.

Here’s the trick: keep your chocolate desserts out of sight. These birds are sneaky!

3. Caffeine – No Coffee Dates

Macaws don’t need caffeine to start their day trust me! Coffee, tea, and soda can overstimulate their tiny system, making their heart race or causing dehydration.

What to do instead: pour them a little fresh water or a drop of diluted fruit juice. Rio loves apple juice as his “morning drink.” Cute, right?

4. Alcohol Never, Ever

Even a few drops of alcohol can be dangerous. It affects a bird’s liver and brain almost instantly. Imagine how tiny their system is compared to ours!

So yeah—no sips, no jokes, nothing. Keep glasses out of reach during hangouts or parties.

5. Onion and Garlic Hidden Villains

Here’s what surprised me something as common as onion or garlic can damage your macaw’s red blood cells. Doesn’t matter if it’s cooked or raw; both can make them weak or even cause anemia.

Tip: keep their food plain and natural. No salt, no seasonings. Birds like it simple.

6. Salt and Junk Food – Not for Sharing

You might be tempted to toss your macaw a chip or two, but hold on. Their bodies can’t process salt like ours can. Too much sodium can lead to dehydration or kidney trouble.

Healthier swap: unsalted nuts or plain, air-popped popcorn. Crunchy and safe!

7. Fruit Seeds and Pits – Small But Risky

Here’s something most people don’t realize—apple seeds and the pits from cherries or peaches actually contain cyanide compounds. Tiny, but toxic.

So, what’s safe? Bananas, grapes, and melons. Easy to chew, and your macaw will love them.

8. Dairy – Skip It

Yep, no milk, cheese, or ice cream. Birds can’t digest lactose, and it just ends up giving them tummy troubles.

Alternative treat: a spoonful of unsweetened coconut yogurt or almond milk if you want to share something creamy.

9. Raw Beans – Cook Firs

Uncooked beans have toxins that can really mess with your parrot’s health. So always boil or steam them before adding to their meal.

10. Sugary & Fried Foods – Keep It Clean

I know those cookies or fries look tempting to share, but sugary or greasy foods are just bad news. They can lead to obesity and liver problems.

Stick to the rule: fresh, colorful, and natural.