Can pigeons eat soybeans?

If there is anything we know about pigeons it is that they are not shy at all. They are birds that are extremely social and will not hesitate to follow their heart. If their heart desires the breakfast soybeans that you are eating, you know what they’ll do. We know how difficult it is to refuse them something. Especially when they give you that look. If you’ve been a pet parent for a long time, you would know exactly what we’re referring to. On the other hand, if you are a new pigeon owner, we will let you enter the cool kids’ group. When we say, ‘that’ look, we are referring to the way they glare at you. You are bound to get convinced you didn’t feed them in the morning by it. Beware of that look! We bet you are here, surfing the internet hoping you can feed them soybeans after receiving the look. Even if some other event led you to read this article. We are glad you are here! We will try our utmost to answer all of your queries and give you just the answer that you are looking for. 

Can pigeons eat soybeans?

Without running around the question for longer, let’s get into it. Yes, your pigeon can eat soybeans. There is no harm in the tasteful wholesomeness of food at all. But we strongly suggest you do not take that as a definite answer and go away. In terms of feeding soybeans to your little birdie, there are a few complications that you need to get over first. You cannot feed your pigeon raw soybeans under any circumstance. They need to be cooked or preferably in the roasted form before they are served to little Kevin. 

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Birds, especially pigeons are terrible when it comes to deciding what is beneficial for them. We mean no offense to your little fellow. All we intend to do is bring to focus, what your role in the film is. Without a doubt, you play the lead character! Or perhaps it would be more accurate to mirror your role in your pigeon’s life, like that of a guardian angel. You have to be on the lookout for them and correct every wrong food choice they make. Pigeons naturally are in a habit to eat anything that they deem eatable at first sight. They will even eat scraps! For this reason, you have to be a better judge and make a choice for them. And that choice is certainly not raw soybeans!

Why are raw soybeans considered unhealthy?

Soybeans can debatably be said to be the most controversial legumes. They are not only unhealthy for your bird but you as well. Soybeans served raw can be the underlying cause of several short term health issues like gastrointestinal issues. In extreme cases, they may even give aid to the development of long term health issues. They tend to be toxic to the point of fatality to your bird. All soybean supplements which are supposed to benefit you would instead play the exact opposite role. The perfect example of this would be lectins (they are referred to as anti-nutrients). If they can bind to the walls of your pet’s intestine, they can abrupt the absorption of nutrients largely. In addition to this, a large consumption might also lead to damage to cells.

You might be thinking, can’t gastric juices and enzymes break down lectins like everything else we eat? Unfortunately, they can’t. We, being human beings, have an immune system and gastric enzymes that are far much more efficient than that of a pigeon. Yet, our body is unable to get rid of or breakdown lectins present in soybeans. How a bird’s digestive system would is a far cry in this particular matter.  

What do I do if my pigeon eats raw soybeans?

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First and foremost, you need to relax! We know being a pet parent brings along with it natural worry but in a situation as such, you need to get yourself together. Remember that you won’t be able to take care of your precious bird if you are anxious. We assure you, your bird is going to be fine. 

Are you composed yet? If so, let’s get down to work! Primarily you need to be on the lookout for any unpleasant symptoms. The most common indication that your pet needs intensified treatment is symptoms of gastrointestinal imbalance. To make it easier for you, we have listed a few red signals you need to be aware of;

  • Lethargy 
  • Weakness
  • In some cases, depression 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Green droppings 

If you identify any of these symptoms in your pigeon, it is time to call the vet. Experimenting or even trying already known remedies can go south. It’s not the best time to play the vet at all. If the vet suggests, you may book the earliest appointment or otherwise follow the doctor’s recommendation. Once the pigeon is treated timely, it will be flying around excitedly again before you even know it!

If for some provided reason, you are unable to contact the vet, we’ve got your back! We will never leave you stranded when it is your pigeon’s health at stake. The most effective and reliable way to deal with such an unwelcome situation is to feed it a fiber-rich diet. It will help the unwanted food and supplements from soybeans to pass out easily. Fiber helps with the bowel movement as well as creates bulk in the stomach. Ultimately, your pigeon’s body will be clean of any toxins at all. 

Preventing a similar situation from happening again is just as important as treating it in the first place. For this reason, you must keep raw soybeans away from the reach of your birdie. They are in a habit of going around for an adventure oftentimes. They mustn’t come across raw soybeans under any circumstance. Instead, you should be careful to keep your container of soybeans safe inside a cupboard. 

What are some alternatives to soybeans?

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There are numerous alternatives to soybeans when it comes to pigeons. Pigeon peas stand out of all of them. They are the best choice not only in terms of nutritional benefits but also in taste. Pigeon peas are sold by many different names such as Cajanus Cajan (most popular amongst all), Angola pea, and Congo pea. They are a rich source of protein and countless supplements that will prove favorable to your feathered bird. Some of these minerals include;

  • Magnesium 
  • Copper 
  • Thiamine
  • Manganese 
  • Potassium 
  • Phosphorus

Lastly, they contain an abundant amount of dietary fiber which is essential for birds specifically. Your pigeon will need to get its stomach’s cleared after it’s been on a food experimenting journey. Your go-to food at that time should be pigeon peas. Additionally, they also propose no sort of harm to your pet. 

Some other substitutes to soybeans can be other grains and seeds, fruits, berries (pigeons adore berries). Pellets too can be considered an option. 

What do soybeans have to offer?

Needless to say, soybeans are the epitome of nutrients and vitamins in their roasted form. Roasting soybeans also diminishes and kills all the toxins that may be harmful to a bird. 

The vegetable goodness has a surplus quantity of vitamins and minerals that will keep your pigeon upbeat and healthy. They will also add to your bird’s diet and make up for any nutrient shortcomings. Some of these essential minerals are; manganese, phosphorus, iron as well as vitamin K1.

However, what is a huge debate amongst pigeon dogs is whether the protein content in soybeans is excessive. Animal experts and doctors think that the protein content of more than 18% in any food item is detrimental to a pigeon’s health. It can be the cause of liver failure overtime or other diseases such as obesity etc. For this reason, the number of soybeans that you incorporate in your feathery fellow’s diet should be calculated.

Do pigeons like soybeans?

Yes! Pigeons love toasted soybeans. They are known to be picky eaters and soybeans are still one of their choices. Once you start feeding your dog roasted soybeans, it will develop a taste for them. However, at the same time, you should be mindful that they are not a replacement for their daily diet. Soybeans cannot be a substitute for pigeon food at all. No other treat can take the place of regular food that they are fed. 

If there is a dire situation in which you run out of proper food. You may feed them human food and other healthy treats frequently instead.

Conclusion

You may feed your dear bird soybeans without any fear or worry. However, as a pet parent, you will need to be cautious about a few factors to ensure the good health of the bird. The soybeans that you feed your pet should always be cooked or roasted. In addition to this, lastly, they should not be fed in excess to avoid any stomach unrest or other painful consequences.

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