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Vegetables
Can Birds Eat Tomatoes?
Ripe tomatoes only - green parts are toxic
Quick Answer
Yes, but with caution — birds can eat tomatoes in limited amounts. Ripe red tomato flesh is safe. Green tomatoes, stems, and leaves contain solanine which is toxic.
Reviewed by Clawmate Vet Team•Updated February 2026
The Full Story
Ripe tomatoes are safe and contain lycopene, vitamins A and C. However, the green parts of the tomato plant (stems, leaves, and unripe green tomatoes) contain solanine and tomatine, which are toxic to pets. If you grow tomatoes, keep pets away from the plants.
✓ Safety Tips
- Only feed ripe, red tomatoes
- Remove all stems and leaves
- Never feed green tomatoes
- Keep pets away from tomato plants
Recommended Serving for Birds
Dogs: 1-2 small pieces of ripe tomato. Cats: A tiny piece rarely.
Nutritional Benefits
LycopeneVitamin AVitamin CPotassium
Frequently Asked Questions
Can birds eat tomatoes?▼
Ripe tomatoes only - green parts are toxic. Ripe red tomato flesh is safe. Green tomatoes, stems, and leaves contain solanine which is toxic.
Is tomatoes safe for birds?▼
Ripe tomatoes are safe and contain lycopene, vitamins A and C. However, the green parts of the tomato plant (stems, leaves, and unripe green tomatoes) contain solanine and tomatine, which are toxic to pets. If you grow tomatoes, keep pets away from the plants.
How much tomatoes can I give my bird?▼
Dogs: 1-2 small pieces of ripe tomato. Cats: A tiny piece rarely.
What are the health benefits of tomatoes for birds?▼
Tomatoes provides: Lycopene, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Potassium. Ripe tomatoes are safe and contain lycopene, vitamins A and C. However, the green parts of the tomato plant (stems, leaves, and unripe green tomatoes) contain solanine and tomatine, which are toxic to pets. If you grow tomatoes, keep pets away from the plants.
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Trusted sources: ASPCA Poison Control · Pet Poison Helpline · AVMA Pet Owners