Can Birds Eat Salt?

Never No — never feed this to birds

Salt is not safe for birds. Birds have low salt tolerance; chips, pretzels and salty snacks can cause kidney damage and death.

What to do if your bird ate salt

If your bird has eaten salt, don't wait for symptoms — contact your vet or a pet poison line straight away: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661. Note how much was eaten and when.

The right everyday diet for birds

Companion birds do best on a formulated pellet diet with fresh vegetables and some fruit — and no fatty, salty, or sugary human foods. Foods like salt are extras, not a substitute for a proper diet.

Frequently asked questions

Can Birds Eat Salt?

No. Birds have low salt tolerance; chips, pretzels and salty snacks can cause kidney damage and death.

Is salt toxic to birds?

Salt is not safe for birds. Birds have low salt tolerance; chips, pretzels and salty snacks can cause kidney damage and death.

What should I do if my bird ate salt?

Contact your vet or a pet poison line right away — ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661. Don't wait for symptoms to appear.

Source for this rating: VCA Animal Hospitals ↗. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always confirm with your own vet, as every animal is different.

Can other pets eat salt?

More foods for birds

See the full list of what birds can and can't eat →

Pet emergency?Don't wait — get professional help immediately.