What to Feed a Bird After Laying Eggs: Nutrition Tips
Discover what to feed a bird after laying eggs. Learn nutrition tips, recovery foods, and supplements to support egg-laying birds.
Did your pet bird just lay an egg? 🐣 While it’s a beautiful part of nature, it can also take a toll on her health. Knowing what to feed a bird after laying eggs is crucial for her recovery and overall well-being.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best food, supplements, and hydration tips to help your feathered friend bounce back after laying eggs. Whether you have a budgie, cockatiel, parrot, or lovebird, these nutrition tips will keep your bird healthy, happy, and egg-ready!
Why Nutrition Matters for Egg-Laying Birds
Laying eggs is a physically demanding process that can drain your bird’s energy, calcium, and overall nutrient reserves. Without the right recovery diet, birds may face health risks such as egg binding, weak muscles, feather loss, brittle bones, and reproductive stress. Proper nutrition supports healing and helps prevent complications in the future.
In the wild, female birds often have access to seasonal plants, high-protein insects, and natural mineral sources. In captivity, we must replicate this variety with supplements and careful dietary planning to ensure she gets all the essentials after each egg-laying cycle.
Signs Your Bird Needs Recovery Nutrition
- Lethargy or fluffing up feathers constantly
- Loss of appetite, even toward favorite treats
- Soft or shell-less eggs (lack of calcium)
- Frequent egg-laying without recovery time
- Changes in posture, trembling, or weak legs
Image Credit: Ingemar Johnsson
Top Foods and Supplements for Recovery
To support your bird after she lays eggs, prioritize a recovery diet focused on calcium, protein, and hydration. You’ll also want to minimize stress and provide calm, quiet surroundings to promote healing.
1. Calcium for Birds After Laying Eggs
- Cuttlebone: A classic and reliable source of digestible calcium.
- Crushed eggshells: Boil and dry before crushing. Mix with soft food.
- Calcium-fortified pellets: Help balance out deficiencies.
- Liquid calcium: Ideal for quick absorption during critical times.
Consider Feathered Friends Liquid Calcium Supplement — ideal for rapid calcium replenishment post-laying.
Image Credit: Gloriosha William
2. Protein-Rich Foods for Muscle Repair
- Mashed hard-boiled eggs (with shell for added calcium)
- Cooked lentils, chickpeas, or quinoa
- Sprouted seeds (mung beans, alfalfa)
- Quality bird pellets containing plant-based protein
Try Higgins InTune Natural Bird Pellets — a nutrient-dense food that supports post-laying recovery and contains high-quality amino acids for feather and tissue repair.
Birds recovering from egg-laying also need protein for energy regulation. In particular, cockatiels and lovebirds may become weak if deprived of post-laying nutrition for even a day or two.
3. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Soft fruits and leafy greens are rich in hydration, vitamins, and antioxidants. Offer these:
- Kale, spinach, and dandelion greens (calcium + Vitamin A)
- Chopped apple, berries, papaya, or pear (without seeds)
- Carrots and broccoli (lightly steamed)
4. Hydration and Electrolyte Balance
Post-laying, birds need plenty of clean water to stay hydrated and aid digestion. You may also add electrolyte drops or vitamin water under vet guidance.
Support hydration with Avitech Bird Electrolyte Solution, especially if your bird seems fatigued or weak.
Image Credit: Raman Damodar
Supplements for Egg-Laying Birds
While food should be the primary source of nutrition, supplements can play a key role in post-laying recovery — especially if your bird lays frequently or has underlying deficiencies.
- Bird Plus Avian Daily Multivitamin – includes essential vitamins A, D3, E, and B complex
- Vitamin D3 – improves calcium absorption and bone development
- Omega-3 fatty acids – aid inflammation and feather regeneration
- Probiotics – support digestion and reduce stress in birds
For chronic layers, consult your avian vet about hormone-safe supplements or light-cycle adjustments to slow egg production.
Image Credit: Annie Lang
Comfort & Environment Tips Post-Egg Laying
Nutrition is only part of recovery. Your bird also needs a low-stress environment to regain strength:
- Reduce loud noise and traffic around her cage
- Dim lighting to reduce hormonal triggers
- Avoid unnecessary handling or play until she’s active again
- Offer shredded paper or a resting area if she seeks comfort
Make sure food and water bowls are easily accessible — especially if she’s weak or staying at the bottom of the cage. Watch her movements and weight daily to detect any health dips early.
FAQs About What to Feed a Bird After Laying Eggs
Q1: Can I give my bird eggs after she lays?
A: Yes, boiled or scrambled eggs offer protein and calcium. Just avoid adding salt, oil, or seasoning. Once or twice a week is enough.
Q2: How long should I offer recovery foods?
A: Offer a recovery diet for at least 7–10 days after laying, or longer if she laid multiple eggs or appears tired. Continue calcium daily during this phase.
Q3: What’s the best treat to encourage eating?
A: Try soft fruits like apple or papaya or high-protein treats like natural bird pellets. Avoid millet or seed overload.
Q4: Should I give her nesting material again?
A: Not always. Nesting material can trigger more laying. Focus on recovery — remove mirrors, huts, or toys that simulate mating behaviors.
Conclusion
Understanding what to feed a bird after laying eggs is key to her recovery, longevity, and overall happiness. With the right balance of calcium, protein, hydration, and environmental comfort, your bird can bounce back quickly and stay healthy for future cycles.
Looking for more care tips? Read our guide on What to Do When Your Pet Bird Lays an Egg and explore our bird wellness series.
Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you click and purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.