Canaries are small birds that are native to the Canary Islands. They are known for their beautiful songs and vibrant colors. If you are a proud owner of a canary, you may be wondering what these birds eat to stay healthy and happy.
Canaries primarily eat seeds as the main part of their diet. This includes a variety of seeds such as sunflower seeds, millet, and canary grass seed. These seeds provide the essential nutrients and energy that canaries need to thrive. However, it’s important to note that canaries also enjoy a small amount of fresh fruits and vegetables as a supplement to their diet.
In addition to seeds, canaries also need a source of protein to maintain their health. This can be provided through boiled eggs or commercially-available egg food. Protein is essential for feather growth and overall muscle development. It’s important to offer a balanced diet to your canary to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients.
It’s worth mentioning that canaries have delicate digestive systems, so it’s crucial to avoid feeding them any types of food that are toxic to them. This includes chocolate, caffeine, avocado, and alcohol. It’s also important to clean their food dishes regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria that can make them sick.
Remember, a healthy diet is key to the well-being of your canary. Providing them with a proper and balanced diet will not only keep them happy but also help them live a long and fulfilling life.
What Do Canaries Eat?
Canaries are small birds that belong to the finch family. They are popular pets because of their beautiful singing ability and vibrant colors. In order to keep your canary healthy and happy, it is important to provide them with a balanced diet.
Seeds
The primary food for canaries is seeds. They enjoy a variety of seeds, including millet, sunflower seeds, and hemp seeds. Make sure to provide fresh seeds regularly to ensure their nutritional needs are met.
Fruits and Vegetables
In addition to seeds, canaries also enjoy eating fruits and vegetables. Offer them a variety of options such as apples, oranges, carrots, and spinach. These foods provide additional vitamins and minerals that are essential for their overall health.
Egg Food
Canaries also benefit from including egg food in their diet. This is a blend of crushed eggshells, mealworms, and other protein-rich ingredients. It helps provide the necessary protein for their growth and development.
Pellets
Pellets specifically formulated for canaries can be a good addition to their diet. These pellets contain a balanced mix of nutrients and are designed to provide a complete meal for your canary.
Remember to always provide fresh water for your canary and clean their food dishes regularly. Avoid feeding them avocado, chocolate, or caffeine as these can be toxic to birds. By providing a nutritious diet, you can ensure that your canary stays healthy and lives a long, happy life.
A Balanced Diet
In order to maintain optimal health, it is crucial to provide a canary with a balanced diet. Canaries eat a variety of foods to obtain the nutrients they need to stay healthy and vibrant.
Seeds and Grains
One of the main components of a canary’s diet is seeds and grains. These can be provided in the form of a high-quality canary seed mix, which typically includes a variety of seeds such as millet, sunflower seeds, and hemp seeds. Canaries particularly enjoy small, easy-to-crack seeds like millet.
Fruits and Vegetables
Adding a variety of fruits and vegetables to a canary’s diet is essential. Some great options include apples, oranges, carrots, broccoli, and spinach. Fruits and vegetables provide canaries with important vitamins and antioxidants that support their overall health.
Note: It is important to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before offering them to your canary to remove any pesticides or other harmful substances.
Protein
Protein is another important nutrient for canaries. They can obtain protein from sources such as boiled eggs, cooked chicken, or mealworms. It is recommended to offer small portions of protein-rich foods a few times a week to provide the necessary protein intake for a canary.
Remember to always provide fresh, clean water for your canary to drink. Water is essential for digestion and overall hydration.
A well-rounded, balanced diet is key for keeping your canary healthy and happy. By providing a variety of seeds, fruits, vegetables, and protein sources, you can ensure that your canary gets all the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Seeds as the Main Staple
One of the main things that canaries eat are seeds. Seeds provide the necessary nutrients that these beautiful birds need to stay healthy and thrive.
There are various types of seeds that can be included in a canary’s diet. Some of the most common seeds include millets, sunflower seeds, hemp seeds, and flaxseeds. These seeds are rich in carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, all of which are essential for canaries.
Millet seeds are a favorite among canaries and can be given as a daily staple. They are small, round seeds that are easy for canaries to crack open and consume. Sunflower seeds are high in fat and can be given in moderation as a treat. Hemp seeds are rich in protein and can be used to supplement the canary’s diet.
Flaxseeds are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for a canary’s overall health. They help maintain healthy feathers and promote a strong immune system. Flaxseeds can be added to the canary’s diet in small amounts, as an occasional treat.
It is important to provide a variety of seeds to ensure that the canary’s nutritional needs are met. This can be done by offering a seed mix that includes a combination of different seeds. This will help prevent boredom and ensure that the canary receives a balanced diet.
| Common Seeds | Nutritional Benefits |
|---|---|
| Millets | Carbohydrates, Protein |
| Sunflower seeds | Healthy fats |
| Hemp seeds | Protein |
| Flaxseeds | Omega-3 fatty acids |
While seeds are an important part of a canary’s diet, they should not be the only food provided. Canaries also need fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as access to clean, fresh water at all times. It is important to ensure a well-rounded diet to keep the canary happy and healthy.
Variety of Fresh Fruits
Canaries love to eat a variety of fresh fruits. Fruits provide them with essential vitamins and minerals, as well as hydration. Some of the fruits that canaries enjoy eating include:
| Fruit | Description |
|---|---|
| Apple | Apples are a great source of vitamin C and fiber. Canaries enjoy the sweet and crunchy texture of apples. |
| Strawberries | Strawberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C. Canaries love the juicy and tangy taste of strawberries. |
| Blueberries | Blueberries are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. Canaries enjoy the small, sweet, and tart berries. |
| Bananas | Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Canaries like the soft texture and mild sweetness of bananas. |
| Grapes | Grapes are hydrating and rich in antioxidants. Canaries enjoy the juicy and sweet flavor of grapes. |
It is important to remember that fruits should be given in moderation as a treat and not as a main part of a canary’s diet. Always ensure that the fruits are fresh and thoroughly washed before offering them to your canary.
Nutritious Vegetables
Canaries have a varied diet that includes seeds, fruits, and vegetables. Incorporating a variety of vegetables into your canary’s diet is important to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients for their health and well-being.
Here are some nutritious vegetables that canaries enjoy:
| Vegetables | Description |
|---|---|
| Carrots | Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is essential for canaries’ vision and immune system. |
| Spinach | Spinach is packed with iron and calcium, which are important for bone health and blood circulation. |
| Kale | Kale is a nutrient-dense vegetable that provides canaries with vitamins A, C, and K. |
| Broccoli | Broccoli is a great source of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and E. |
| Zucchini | Zucchini is low in calories and contains vitamin C and potassium. |
It’s important to remember that each canary is unique, and their preferences may vary. Make sure to introduce new vegetables gradually and monitor your canary’s reaction to ensure they are enjoying their meals.
Protein-Rich Foods
Proteins are an essential part of a canary’s diet. They help in growth and development, provide energy, and support overall health. Including protein-rich foods in your canary’s diet is important to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients. Here are some protein-rich foods that canaries can eat:
| Food | Description |
|---|---|
| Egg | Eggs are a great source of high-quality protein. Hard-boiled or scrambled eggs can be served to your canary. Make sure to remove the eggshell and only provide the cooked egg. |
| Insects | Canaries enjoy eating small insects like mealworms and crickets. These are excellent sources of protein and can be fed to your canary as occasional treats. |
| Sprouted Seeds | Sprouted seeds, such as alfalfa and mung bean sprouts, are rich in protein and other nutrients. You can include sprouted seeds in your canary’s diet to enhance their protein intake. |
| Soybeans | Soybeans are a complete protein source and can be provided to canaries as an occasional treat. You can offer cooked soybeans or include them in homemade canary seed mixes. |
| Pellets | Commercially available canary pellets are formulated to provide balanced nutrition, including proteins. Pellets can be a convenient and reliable source of protein for your canary’s diet. |
It’s important to remember that while proteins are essential, they should be a part of a well-rounded diet. Canaries also require carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals for optimal health. Consulting a veterinarian or avian nutritionist for specific dietary recommendations for your canary is always recommended.
Essential Minerals and Vitamins
Good nutrition is essential for the health and well-being of canaries. Along with a balanced diet, canaries require specific minerals and vitamins to thrive. These nutrients play a crucial role in supporting their overall health, immune system, and vibrant plumage.
Calcium and Phosphorus
Calcium and phosphorus are essential minerals that help in the development and maintenance of strong bones and eggshells, especially for canaries during their breeding season. A deficiency in these minerals can lead to fragile bones and weak eggs. Canaries can be provided with a calcium supplement or cuttlebones to ensure they receive sufficient amounts of these nutrients.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining optimal vision and a healthy respiratory system in canaries. It also promotes healthy feathers and skin. Canaries can obtain vitamin A from their diet, particularly from foods like carrots, dark leafy greens, and sweet potatoes. It is important to offer a variety of foods rich in this vitamin to ensure their nutritional needs are met.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for the absorption and metabolism of calcium and phosphorus in canaries. It helps in maintaining healthy bones, feathers, and beaks. Canaries can naturally produce vitamin D when exposed to direct sunlight. However, it is important to provide a balanced ultraviolet (UV) light source in their environment to ensure they receive sufficient amounts of this vitamin.
While a balanced diet forms the basis of a canary’s nutrition, these essential minerals and vitamins play a vital role in their overall health and well-being. Providing a variety of foods rich in these nutrients, along with necessary supplements, will help ensure your canary stays healthy and vibrant.
Egg Food
Egg food is an essential part of a canary’s diet. Canaries eat a variety of foods, but egg food is particularly important as it provides them with essential nutrients.
Egg food is typically made from hard-boiled eggs, which are mashed or grated to create a fine consistency. It is then mixed with other ingredients such as bread crumbs, vegetables, fruits, and supplements. This mixture provides canaries with a balanced and nutritious meal.
Benefits of Egg Food
There are several benefits of feeding canaries egg food:
- Protein: Canaries require a high amount of protein in their diet to support their growth and overall health. The eggs in egg food are an excellent source of protein, helping canaries meet their nutritional needs.
- Vitamins and minerals: Egg food is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial for a canary’s well-being. These nutrients help support their immune system, promote healthy feathers, and contribute to overall vitality.
- Added variety: Offering egg food to canaries adds variety to their diet, making it more enjoyable for them. It can enhance their appetite and encourage them to eat a well-rounded meal.
- Molting support: During molting periods, canaries require extra nutrients to support feather growth. Egg food provides the necessary nutrients to help canaries go through the molting process smoothly.
Feeding Egg Food to Canaries
Egg food should be given to canaries regularly, ideally every day or a few times a week. It can be served as a standalone option or mixed with their regular seeds or pellets. It’s important to ensure that the egg food is fresh and does not spoil. Any uneaten portion should be removed to prevent bacterial growth.
Canaries may take some time to adapt to egg food, especially if they have not been exposed to it before. It’s recommended to introduce egg food gradually, mixing small amounts with their regular food and gradually increasing the proportion over time.
| Ingredients | Proportions |
|---|---|
| Hard-boiled eggs (mashed or grated) | 1 part |
| Bread crumbs | 1 part |
| Finely chopped vegetables and fruits | 1 part |
| Supplements (calcium, vitamins, etc.) | As recommended |
It’s important to note that the specific proportions and ingredients can vary depending on the individual canary’s needs and dietary requirements. Consulting a veterinarian or an avian specialist can provide further guidance on creating an appropriate egg food mix for canaries.
Sprouted Seeds
Canaries love to eat sprouted seeds, which are highly nutritious and provide them with necessary vitamins and minerals.
To sprout seeds for your canary, start by selecting healthy and organic seeds, such as millets, sunflower seeds, and rapeseeds. Rinse the seeds thoroughly before placing them in a clean glass jar. Add enough water to cover the seeds, then cover the jar with a mesh or cheesecloth and secure it with a rubber band.
Allow the seeds to soak for about 8-12 hours, then drain the water and rinse the seeds again. Place the jar in a dark and warm location, such as a cupboard, and leave it undisturbed for another 24 hours. During this time, make sure to rinse the seeds twice a day to prevent mold growth.
After 24 hours, you should start seeing sprouts emerging from the seeds. Continue rinsing the seeds twice a day and keep them in a dark location for another 24-48 hours, until the sprouts reach a desirable length.
Feeding Sprouted Seeds to Your Canary
Once the sprouts are ready, you can feed them to your canary. Remove the desired amount of sprouts from the jar and rinse them thoroughly to remove any residual husks or roots.
You can offer the sprouted seeds to your canary in a shallow dish or sprinkle them over their regular food. Make sure to only provide a small amount, as overfeeding can lead to digestive issues.
Benefits of Sprouted Seeds
Sprouted seeds are an excellent source of nutrients for canaries. They are rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E, as well as minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Additionally, sprouted seeds are easier to digest and can help improve your canary’s overall health and well-being.
| Benefits of Sprouted Seeds for Canaries | |
|---|---|
| Highly nutritious | Rich in vitamins and minerals |
| Easy to digest | Improves overall health |
| Can be used as a supplement or treat | Provides variety in the diet |
Cuttlebone and Grit
In addition to their regular seed and pellet diet, canaries require additional sources of nutrients to stay healthy. Two essential components of a canary’s diet are cuttlebone and grit.
Canaries love to chew on cuttlebone, which is a hard, porous, internal shell of a cuttlefish. Cuttlebones are an excellent source of calcium, which is necessary for maintaining strong bones and proper eggshell formation in female canaries. They also provide natural beak-sculpting exercise for your pet.
Grit, on the other hand, is small, hard particles that canaries eat to help with digestion. Grit helps grind up food in the bird’s gizzard, aiding in the breakdown of seeds and other tough materials that canaries consume. Without grit, canaries may have difficulty digesting their food properly.
It’s important to provide your canary with both cuttlebone and grit in separate dishes within their cage. Make sure the cuttlebone is securely fastened so that it doesn’t move around and potentially injure your bird. The grit should be small enough for your canary to swallow easily.
While cuttlebone and grit are essential for your canary’s well-being, it’s important to provide them in moderation. Too much cuttlebone can lead to excessive calcium levels, which may result in health problems like kidney stones. Similarly, offering too much grit can cause digestive issues. Always consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of cuttlebone and grit for your canary.
Water for Hydration
Water is essential for the well-being of your canary. Just like any other living creature, canaries need water to survive and stay hydrated. Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining their overall health and ensuring proper bodily functions.
Canaries should have access to fresh, clean water at all times. It is important to change their water daily to prevent bacterial growth and ensure its freshness. You can use a small, shallow dish or a specialized bird water dispenser to provide water to your canary.
How much water do canaries need?
The amount of water that a canary needs varies depending on factors such as its size, activity level, and the climate in which it lives. On average, a canary will drink about 10-20% of its body weight in water per day. It is essential to monitor their water intake and make sure they are drinking enough.
Canaries can sometimes be picky drinkers, and they might prefer to drink water from specific types of containers. Experiment with different types of water dispensers, such as shallow dishes, cups, or specialized bird water dispensers, to see which one your canary prefers.
Signs of dehydration in canaries
Dehydration can be a serious issue for canaries and may lead to various health problems. Some common signs of dehydration in canaries include:
| Signs of Dehydration | Description |
|---|---|
| Lethargy | Unusually low energy levels |
| Dry or sunken eyes | Eyes appear dry or deep-set |
| Loss of appetite | Refusal to eat or reduced food intake |
| Weight loss | Noticeable decrease in body weight |
| Reduced vocalization | Less frequent or weak singing |
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to provide your canary with fresh water and consult a veterinarian if the symptoms persist.
In conclusion, water is vital for the hydration and overall well-being of canaries. Ensure they have access to fresh, clean water at all times and monitor their water intake to prevent dehydration. By taking proper care of their water needs, you can help your canary stay healthy and happy.
Avoiding Harmful Foods
While canaries have a diverse diet, there are certain foods that can be harmful to them. It is important to avoid giving your canary any food that may cause harm or toxicity.
Foods to Avoid
- Avocado: Avocado contains a substance called persin, which can be toxic to canaries.
- Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to canaries and can cause various health problems.
- Caffeine: Canaries should not be given any caffeinated beverages, as caffeine can be harmful to their health.
- Onions and Garlic: Both onions and garlic can cause serious digestive issues in canaries and should be avoided.
Other Considerations
In addition to avoiding the harmful foods mentioned above, it is also important to pay attention to the quality of the food you give your canary. Make sure that any fruits, vegetables, or seeds you provide are fresh and free from pesticides. It is also a good idea to offer a varied diet to ensure that your canary gets all the necessary nutrients.
By being aware of the foods to avoid, you can help keep your canary healthy and happy.
Healthy Treats
In addition to their regular diet, canaries can enjoy a variety of healthy treats. These treats can help provide some extra nutrition and keep your canary happy.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are a great choice for canary treats. Some options to consider include:
- Apples – make sure to remove the seeds as they can be toxic to birds.
- Carrots – canaries love the crunchy texture of carrots.
- Spinach – a nutritious leafy green that can provide essential vitamins.
Remember to always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before feeding them to your canary.
Seeds and Grains
Seeds and grains can also be given as treats to canaries. Some examples include:
- Millet – a small and tasty seed that can be offered as a treat.
- Oats – a healthy source of fiber that can be cooked and served to your canary.
- Quinoa – a nutritious whole grain that can be cooked and offered as a treat.
These treats should be given in moderation, as seeds and grains are high in fat and can lead to weight gain if overfed.
Note: It’s important to introduce new treats gradually and monitor your canary’s response. If you notice any adverse reactions, such as digestive issues or changes in behavior, discontinue the treat and consult a veterinarian if necessary.
Pellet Diets
Pellet diets are a popular choice for feeding canaries. These diets are formulated to provide all the necessary nutrients in one convenient package. They typically come in the form of small pellets that can be easily consumed by canaries.
Pellet diets for canaries usually contain a mix of seeds, grains, fruits, vegetables, and other essential ingredients. They are designed to mimic a canary’s natural diet in the wild, ensuring that they receive a balanced and nutritious meal.
One of the benefits of pellet diets is that they eliminate the need for canaries to pick and choose which foods they want to eat. This helps to ensure that they are getting all the necessary nutrients they need for optimal health.
When feeding canaries a pellet diet, it’s important to monitor their weight and adjust the portion sizes accordingly. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health issues, while underfeeding can cause malnutrition.
While pellet diets can be a convenient and nutritious option for feeding canaries, it’s important to offer them a variety of foods to keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional treats such as millet sprays can be offered alongside the pellet diet to provide additional enrichment.
Overall, pellet diets can be a great option for feeding canaries, providing them with a well-rounded and balanced meal. However, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian or avian specialist to ensure that the specific pellet diet chosen is appropriate for your canary’s individual needs.
Hay and Greens
Canaries, like many small birds, have a diet primarily consisting of seeds. However, they also enjoy eating hay and greens as part of their balanced diet.
Hay is a good source of fiber for canaries. It helps with their digestion and keeps their beaks trimmed. You can offer hay to your canary by providing a small amount in their cage or attaching a hay rack for them to nibble on.
Types of Hay
There are different types of hay that you can offer to your canary. Timothy hay and meadow hay are popular choices. These types of hay are made from dried grass and contain essential nutrients that canaries need.
It is important to choose high-quality hay that is free from pesticides and other harmful substances. You can find canary-specific hay at pet stores or online. Make sure to store the hay in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness.
In addition to hay, canaries also enjoy eating greens. Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard can be offered to your canary as a treat. These greens provide additional vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to their health.
Offering Greens
When offering greens to your canary, make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. You can chop the greens into small pieces and mix them with their regular seed mix. This will encourage your canary to try the greens and provide them with some variety in their diet.
Remember that hay and greens should be offered in moderation. The majority of your canary’s diet should still consist of a balanced seed mix. It is also important to keep an eye on your canary’s weight and ensure they are not gaining excessive weight from eating too much hay and greens.
| Hay | Greens |
|---|---|
| Good source of fiber | Additional vitamins and minerals |
| Keep beaks trimmed | Wash thoroughly before offering |
| Choose high-quality hay | Offer in moderation |
Feeding Schedule and Portions
Feeding your canary on a regular schedule is essential to maintain its optimal health and well-being. Here is a recommended feeding schedule for your canary:
Morning Feeding:
Start your canary’s day off with a nutritious breakfast. Provide a small portion of fresh fruits or vegetables, such as apples, carrots, or spinach. These provide essential vitamins and minerals that your canary needs for a balanced diet.
Afternoon Feeding:
In the afternoon, offer your canary a mix of high-quality seeds. This should include a blend of canary seed, millet, and other small seeds. These seeds are a great source of protein and energy for your canary.
It is important to note that seeds should not make up the entirety of your canary’s diet. They should be supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional treats to ensure a well-rounded nutritional intake.
Evening Feeding:
Before bedtime, provide your canary with a small serving of cuttlebone or mineral block. This will help to keep their beak trimmed and provide them with essential minerals, such as calcium, which is necessary for healthy bone development.
Remember to keep the portions appropriate for your canary’s size and age. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and health problems, while underfeeding can result in malnutrition. Consult with your avian veterinarian for specific portion guidelines based on your canary’s individual needs.
Additionally, always ensure that your canary has access to fresh water at all times. Change the water daily to keep it clean and free from bacteria.
By following a consistent feeding schedule and providing a varied diet, you can help to ensure that your canary remains healthy, happy, and full of energy.
Question-answer:
What kind of food should I give my canary?
Canaries need a well-balanced diet that consists of seeds, pellets, and fresh fruits and vegetables. You can provide a seed mix that contains a variety of seeds, such as millet, canary grass seed, and sunflower seeds. Pellets are also a good option as they contain essential nutrients and vitamins. Fresh fruits and vegetables should be offered daily, such as apples, carrots, and leafy greens.
Can I feed my canary only seeds?
While seeds are a staple part of a canary’s diet, they should not be the only source of nutrition. A diet that consists solely of seeds can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health issues. It is important to offer a varied diet that includes pellets and fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure your canary gets all the necessary nutrients.
What fruits and vegetables can I feed my canary?
There are several safe fruits and vegetables that you can feed your canary. Some good options include apples, carrots, spinach, kale, broccoli, and cucumber. It is important to wash the fruits and vegetables thoroughly before offering them to your pet. Additionally, make sure to cut them into small, bite-sized pieces to make it easier for your canary to eat.
How often should I feed my canary?
Canaries should have access to fresh food and water at all times. The seed mix can be left in the cage for the canary to eat throughout the day. Fresh fruits and vegetables should be offered daily and removed after a few hours to prevent spoilage. It is recommended to remove any uneaten food within 24 hours to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
Can I give my canary treats?
Yes, you can give your canary occasional treats, but they should be given in moderation. Some suitable treats include small pieces of millet spray, dried fruits, and commercial bird treats. However, it is important to remember that treats should not make up a significant portion of your canary’s diet, as they are not as nutritionally balanced as regular food.
What is the diet of a canary?
A canary’s diet typically consists of seeds, fresh fruits, and vegetables. They also enjoy occasional treats like millet spray or boiled egg.
Can canaries eat lettuce?
Yes, canaries can eat lettuce. However, it should be given in moderation as a treat, as too much lettuce can cause digestive problems and diarrhea.
Are there any specific fruits that canaries should not eat?
There are a few fruits that canaries should avoid, such as avocado and citrus fruits. Avocado is toxic to birds, and citrus fruits can cause digestive upset.
Is it necessary to provide a calcium supplement for canaries?
It is not necessary to provide a calcium supplement for canaries if they are eating a well-balanced diet. However, offering a cuttlebone or mineral block can help ensure they get enough calcium.