Pet fish are relatively low-maintenance pets until it’s time for you to go on a holiday. You may be wondering how long your fish can survive without food, as the last thing you want is to return home to a dead pet. Fortunately, depending on the species, fish can survive anywhere from three days to a week without food, and some species can even last up to two weeks. However, going without food for prolonged periods is not ideal, particularly for younger fish that don’t have a large enough body mass to survive for extended periods without nourishment.
Let’s explore some feeding solutions for fish owners:
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Slow-Release Fish Food: This is a great option for feeding your fish while you’re away. Also known as vacation food, this solution ensures your fish get the nutrition they need in your absence. Available in different sizes, flavours, and shapes, vacation food suits various types of fish, including marine fish, bottom feeders, and bettas. When placed in your aquarium, this hard chunk of food slowly dissolves over time, providing a continuous supply of food until your return. The food is categorized by the duration it lasts, including weekend feeder blocks (up to three days) for short trips and vacation feeder blocks (up to 14 days) for extended breaks.
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Automatic Feeders: These devices come with a timer that dispenses predetermined quantities of food at set intervals. You can choose between a battery-operated or plug-in model based on your preference. Feeders feature an adjustable opening to control the amount of food dispensed. When planning your trip, ensure you fill the feeder with enough food.
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Hiring a Fish Sitter: If you’re planning an extended holiday, hiring a fish sitter is an excellent way to ensure your fish stay well-fed. It’s important to instruct your sitter about the correct quantity of food to avoid overfeeding, as fish are known to eat even when they are full. Overfeeding can be dangerous, potentially leading to death and high nitrate production, which can result in unpleasant odours.