Pond Fish Feeding FAQs

How often should I feed my fish?

You should feed your fish two to three times per day, taking care not to overfeed them. It’s best to feed them small amounts at a time, as they have small stomachs and can easily become bloated if they eat too much at once.

By spreading out their feedings throughout the day, you can make sure they get enough food without causing any health issues.

What can pond fish eat?

There’s a range of options for pond fish food:

• Commercial fish food: The easiest and most convenient option is to provide your fish with commercially available fish food specifically formulated for their species. These usually come in the form of pellets or flakes and contain a balanced mix of proteins, vitamins, and minerals to support their health.
• Live/frozen foods: Fish also enjoy live or frozen foods, such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. These can be purchased at pet stores.
• Vegetables and fruits: Some fish, such as koi, enjoy eating fruits and veg. You can try feeding them small pieces of lettuce, peas, carrots, watermelon, or oranges. Make sure to cut them into small, bite-sized pieces that are easy for the fish to eat.

If you’re looking for something different, try Fit & Wild Food. Fishmeal free food, made with insects and crustaceans, for natural food that provides the complete nutrition for your fish.

Can I overfeed my pond fish?

Overfeeding can lead to health issues such as obesity, poor water quality. This is due to uneaten food sinking to the bottom of the pond and decomposing, increasing the risk of disease.

Only feed your fish the amount they can consume within a few minutes, and remove any uneaten food afterwards.

How do I know if my pond fish are getting enough food?

One way to determine if your pond fish are fed properly is by observing their behaviour. If they are actively swimming around and eagerly eating when you feed them, it’s a good sign that they’re getting enough food. On the other hand, if they seem disinterested in food or show signs of lethargy, it could indicate 

What is the best time to feed my fish?

Just like us humans, fish need a routine and thrive on consistency. It’s best to establish a feeding schedule and stick to it. Whether you choose to feed them in the morning, afternoon, or evening, make sure to always feed them, at the same time each day.

What should I do if my fish isn’t eating?

If your fish aren’t eating, it could be a sign of a few different issues.

First, check the water parameters, such as ammonia, nitrate, and pH levels. Poor pond water can cause stress and appetite loss in fish. If the water quality is fine, consider if there have been any recent changes in their environment or diet that could be causing them stress.

It’s also possible that they’re not hungry. Fish may go through periods of decreased appetite, especially during colder months. If you notice other signs of illness or distress, it’s best to act quickly and see if you need to use a fish treatment.

Another reason why your fish may not be eating is if they are overfed. If there is excess food left in the pond, it can spoil and create poor water quality, which can lead to decreased appetite. Make sure you are feeding them appropriate amounts, and remove any uneaten food from the pond.

Use our online diagnosis tool to identify any issues with your fish.

How do I know if I am feeding my pond fish the right amount?

A good indicator is to observe the behaviour of your fish after each feeding. If they finish the food quickly and are eagerly searching for more, you may need to increase it slightly.

On the other hand, if there is uneaten food floating on the surface after a few minutes, you might be overfeeding them. Make sure to read the recommended feeding guidelines on the packaging.

When should I stop feeding my pond fish?

Your fish will most likely stop feeding during the winter months. While the weather in the UK is often unpredictable, this will likely be the end of October till around the end of February. So you’ll want to stop feeding your fish during this time to prevent any uneaten food from polluting the water.

Should I use an automatic fish feeder?

Automatic fish feeders can be a useful tool for pond fish owners, especially if you have a busy schedule or will be away for a few days. They ensure consistent and controlled feeding times, reducing the risk of overfeeding. However, they are not essential.

For more information about Fit & WIld, see our FAQs page.