Calcium is important to the gouldian's health. Generally, a cuttlebone , available at many pet stores, is the easiest method for assuring that this mineral is available. Crushed egg shells can also satisfy the need for calcium. Egg shells need to be sterilized to kill traces of salmonela. Grit is another important element to the gouldian diet.
Insoluble grit assists the bird in digestion of seed.
Many gouldian owners provide their pets with a few teaspoons of crushed oyster shells and crushed coal to insure that the need for grit is maintained. Gouldians, not exposed to daily sunlight, should be given some form of vitamin D supplement. In fact, a wide spectrum vitamin supplement is recommended by breeders, especially when the birds are going through their first molt. During the egg laying process, many owners and breeders recommend that a baby bird hand-feeding formula be mixed with the seed or egg food presented to the nesting pair. The reason for starting the hand-food formula before the birth of the offspring is to get the parents accustom to it prior to the time it is needed for feeding the young.