Pet store bag of in shell peanuts vs grocery store? Can Macaws and Cockatoos eat them?

[mdjmsmith2]

Hello, I have a cockatoo and a Macaw… we got Peanut in shell treats from PetSmart. My birds love them.. question: why can’t I just get them from my local grocery store? They are more expensive at the pet store, but is there a reason to get them there and pay the higher cost??

I appreciate all advice…

 

[BirdyBee]

Hello, I have a cockatoo and a Macaw… we got Peanut in shell treats from PetSmart. My birds love them.. question: why can’t I just get them from my local grocery store? They are more expensive at the pet store, but is there a reason to get them there and pay the higher cost??

I appreciate all advice…

I don't reccomend getting peanuts with shell still on, especially animal grade. There are too many risks, such as fungal/mould growth. Animal grade peanuts aren't good.

Human grade ones, as you said, are expensive. Why? It is because they are kept in better conditions and only the best is chosen for human consumption. Which means it's a lot better for your bird than animal grade peanuts.

 

[wrench13]

Peanuts in general are not great for parrots. Aside from harboring mold inside the shells ( yes even human grade ones), peanuts are high in fats. And like us, fatty foods can become a problem if given in large, constant quantities. Parrots can be almost addicted to them. If you must, I would use shelled peanuts, broken into halves or quarters, and use them for treats and training.

 

[BirdyBee]

Peanuts in general are not great for parrots. Aside from harboring mold inside the shells ( yes even human grade ones), peanuts are high in fats. And like us, fatty foods can become a problem if given in large, constant quantities. Parrots can be almost addicted to them. If you must, I would use shelled peanuts, broken into halves or quarters, and use them for treats and training.

Peanuts should only be treats IMO. Other nuts are fine as a small part of their diet, but not peanuts.(They aren't even a nut.. they're a legume.)

 

[mdjmsmith2]

Thank you all for your replies… I use Zupreem seed mixture and noticed that whole shell peanuts were included. Then I noticed you could get a bag of them at the pet store but also noticed the price tag! Hence the question… I have decided to use them for treats only outside of their seed mixture. Yes it’s extra fat but it’s also very messy! It was an easy decision, so thank you for reaching out to help me.

 

[StormyPica]

Thank you all for your replies… I use Zupreem seed mixture and noticed that whole shell peanuts were included. Then I noticed you could get a bag of them at the pet store but also noticed the price tag! Hence the question… I have decided to use them for treats only outside of their seed mixture. Yes it’s extra fat but it’s also very messy! It was an easy decision, so thank you for reaching out to help me.

They should have chop too, not just seed.

 

[mdjmsmith2]

They should have chop too, not just seed.

Yes, they receive a three part meal each day: Vegetables, Pellets, Seeds