Can birds eat alcohol? | EatWeirdThings.com

Can birds eat alcohol?

Quick Answer

No

Alcohol is toxic to birds and can cause severe health problems, including liver damage, heart problems, and even death.

Illustration of moldy bread

What Is It?

Alcohol, in the context of this question, refers to ethyl alcohol or ethanol, the intoxicating ingredient found in beer, wine, and liquor. It is a psychoactive substance and is toxic to birds.

Why It Can Be Risky

Feeding birds alcohol can lead to a number of serious health risks:

  • Liver damage: Just like in humans, alcohol can cause severe liver damage in birds.
  • Heart problems: Alcohol can cause heart problems in birds, including irregular heartbeat.
  • Nervous system damage: Alcohol can damage a bird’s nervous system, leading to problems with coordination and balance.
  • Death: In severe cases, alcohol can be fatal to birds.

Safe Alternatives

Instead of alcohol, provide your birds with fresh water, fruits, and bird-safe vegetables.