A Cross-Sectional Study on Parakeets Feeding and Housing Practices in Italy

Italy has one of the largest companion bird populations in Europe. This study aimed to investigate feeding and housing practices among Italian parakeet owners. An online questionnaire was distributed, yielding 433 voluntary responses. Participants were classified as hobbyists (HBY; ≤ 13 birds owned) or breeders (BRD; > 13 birds owned) to evaluate differences between groups. All BRD and 67.4% of HBY owned more than one bird (p < 0.001), while 74.9% of HBY and 30.5% of BRD (p < 0.001) reported owning only one bird species. Budgerigars were the most frequently reported species (overall: 40.2%), followed by lovebirds (overall: 37.9%). Birds were housed in cages cleaned once or twice per week by 44.1% of owners, whereas food provision and water refreshment occurred 6-7 days per week in 43.2% and 49.0% of cases, respectively. Feeders, water dispensers and environmental enrichments such as perches, swings and ramps were commonly used by both groups. Most birds (58.4%) were fed seed mixes, primarily to provide enjoyment. However, this feeding strategy allows selective consumption of individual components and may predispose birds to nutritional imbalances. A combination of seed mixes and extruded or pelleted complete diets was reported by 17.6% of owners, while 9.9% fed exclusively extruded or pelleted complete diets, following veterinary advice. Approximately 80% of owners used dietary supplements, most commonly cuttlebone; grit and vitamin-mineral supplements were frequently provided, particularly among BRD. Foxtail millet was the most commonly offered snack (80.6%). Overall, 43.2% of participants reported at least one health issue in their birds, most frequently feather-related problems (24%), with no differences between groups. In conclusion, although housing and enrichment practices were generally appropriate, the widespread use of mixed seed-based diets may increase the risk of nutritional imbalances. Owners' priority often appears to be birds' apparent satisfaction, highlighting the need for improved nutritional guidance and professional advice.