Can Parrots Eat Cinnamon? (Avian Vet Reviewed Guide)

Last Updated on November 2, 2023 by Ali Shahid

Parrots are known to eat various kinds of foods, fruits, and vegetables. However, when it comes to spices, there is a question that arises in mind: can parrots eat cinnamon?

According to Dr. Nemetz of The Bird Clinic California, yes, parrots can eat a Ceylon variety of cinnamon. It is not recommended to feed Cassia or Chinese cinnamon to parrots due to its high concentration of coumarin, which thins the blood and has significant negative effects on the liver.

In this article, we will explore everything related to parrots eating cinnamon, including the types of cinnamon that are safe for them, the benefits and risks of feeding cinnamon to parrots, and how to incorporate cinnamon into their diet.

Types of Cinnamon Safe for Parrots

In the world of cinnamon, there are two major players: Ceylon cinnamon and Cassia (also known as Chinese cinnamon). 

Ceylon cinnamon, often called the “real deal,” is the go-to option if you’re considering a cinnamon treat for your feathered friend, the parrot. It’s safe and sound for parrots to munch on. On the flip side.

Cassia or Chinese cinnamon doesn’t make the cut for parrots. It packs a potent punch of coumarin, a substance that can thin the blood and harm your parrot’s liver, possibly leading to serious health issues. So, ensure that you use the Ceylon variety when feeding your parrot.

Benefits of Feeding Cinnamon to Parrots

Cinnamon, a spice cherished for its healing qualities over the ages, offers a host of health benefits. Packed with antioxidants, it wields the power of reducing inflammation and acts as an antiseptic. When introduced in moderation to a parrot’s diet, it can work wonders. Here are some of the advantages of giving cinnamon to your parrot:

1. Aid for Digestion: Cinnamon can alleviate digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhea by improving digestion.
2. Supports the Immune System: Abundant in antioxidants, cinnamon lends a hand in strengthening the immune system guarding against diseases.
3. Combating Inflammation: With its anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon can reduce bodily inflammation and provide relief from pain.
4. Battling Bacteria: Cinnamon’s antibacterial attributes make it a warrior against infections, fostering the healing process.

Moreover, cinnamon boasts a nutritional profile with high fiber content, along with iron, calcium, manganese, and potassium. Its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory properties and richness in antioxidants can even help ease arthritis-related discomfort. So, when it comes to enhancing your parrot’s health, cinnamon is a wise choice.

Risks of Feeding Cinnamon to Parrots

Cinnamon can be a good addition to a parrot’s diet, but it’s crucial to be cautious and only use the safe kind, known as Ceylon cinnamon. The other type, Cassia or Chinese cinnamon, has something called coumarin that can harm parrots’ livers. This means you should avoid giving it to your feathered friend. Here are some risks of feeding cinnamon to Parrots:

1. Toxicity: Cassia/Chinese cinnamon has a lot of coumarin, which can hurt a parrot’s liver, sometimes even leading to liver failure.
2. Allergic Reactions: Some parrots might be allergic to cinnamon, causing problems like itching, swelling, and trouble breathing.
3. Overconsumption: Giving too much cinnamon to parrots can lead to tummy issues, like vomiting and diarrhea. So, always use cinnamon with care when feeding your parrot.

How to prepare and feed cinnamon to parrots?

Incorporating cinnamon into your parrot’s diet is a good idea, but it’s essential to be cautious and use the safe Ceylon cinnamon variety. Here are some simple and safe ways to introduce cinnamon to your feathered friend:

• Cinnamon Sticks: Offer your parrot a cinnamon stick to chew on. This not only helps keep their beak in good shape but also provides mental stimulation.
• Cinnamon Tea: Brew a small amount of cinnamon tea and let it cool before serving it as a special treat for your parrot.
• Sprinkle Ground Cinnamon: Easily sprinkle powdered Ceylon cinnamon over your parrot’s regular food. Slightly dampening the food before adding the cinnamon helps it stick better.
• Add to Cooked Food: If you enjoy being your bird’s personal chef, consider adding cinnamon to cooked dishes. Some bird owners incorporate cinnamon into birdie bread or mix it with hot rice, barley, or lentils. This method optimizes the spice’s health benefits, as the heat from the cooked food releases healthy oils, making them more accessible to your parrot’s body.

By following these steps, you can safely introduce cinnamon into your parrot’s diet and provide them with some tasty and stimulating options.

How to Incorporate Cinnamon into a Parrot’s Diet?

Go for Ceylon Cinnamon: If you want to make sure your parrot stays safe, pick Ceylon cinnamon when you want to give them this spice. Ceylon cinnamon is better because it has less of a substance called coumarin, which can be bad for birds. 

Start Small: Whenever you give your parrot a new food, make sure to give them just a little bit at first. This helps you see how they react to it and make sure it doesn’t upset them. 

Watch Out for Allergies: When you give your parrot cinnamon for the first time, keep a close eye on them. Look for any signs that they might be allergic or have a bad reaction. If you see any problems, stop giving them cinnamon right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can parrots have cinnamon applesauce?

When it comes to feeding parrots, you can share a bit of unsweetened plain applesauce with them. But remember, parrots don’t need much fruit, so just a small taste of plain applesauce will do. If you want to make it tastier, you can add some Ceylon cinnamon, which is safe for birds.

Can parrots eat Saigon cinnamon?

While Saigon cinnamon is not harmful to birds, it’s not the best choice for their health. Instead, it’s advisable to go with Ceylon cinnamon, the only truly safe cinnamon for our feathered friends.

Can parrots eat cinnamon sticks?

Yes, parrots are able to consume cinnamon sticks. However, they must be of the Ceylon cinnamon variety. Chinese cinnamon sticks are toxic for parrots.

Conclusion

In summary, parrots can enjoy Ceylon cinnamon safely, but Cassia or Chinese cinnamon is harmful to them. Using cinnamon in moderation and ensuring it’s the safe Ceylon variety can be a healthy choice for your parrot’s diet.

The benefits of giving cinnamon to parrots include improved digestion, immune system support, and anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. However, it’s crucial to be mindful of potential risks like toxicity, allergic reactions, and overconsumption when offering cinnamon to your parrot.

To incorporate cinnamon into your parrot’s diet, remember to do so in moderation and opt for Ceylon cinnamon.