Keep in mind that each type of food has its advantages and disadvantages. Your goldfish’s diet should consist of many different types of food. Purchasing different types of food will help you keep his diet interesting and ensure that your goldfish receives all of the nutrients that he needs to stay healthy. [2] X Research source
In general, dry food is fairly healthy for your goldfish, but does not have all of the nutrients that he needs. Because of this, dry food should not be the main component of your goldfish’s diet. Since flakes stay at the surface, the excess flakes can be removed easily, making the tank easier to keep clean.
If not prepared properly, live food has the potential to transmit disease to your goldfish. To reduce the likelihood of disease transmission, purchase the live food from your local pet store, rather than searching in lakes, ponds, or the dirt. [5] X Research source Usually, brine shrimp and earthworms are highly unlikely to transmit disease. [6] X Research source Earthworms are more available during the summer months, during their breeding season. Brine shrimp are very tiny shrimp. They are extremely high in protein, so they should be used as treats rather than a regular part of your goldfish’s diet. [7] X Research source
Another advantage of frozen foods is that they are easy to store. [9] X Research source If you have frozen crab, lobster, or mussels at home, you can also feed these to your goldfish. Make sure that they are cleaned and thawed before you put them in your goldfish’s tank. [10] X Research source
Whichever fruit or vegetable you choose, it will need to be softened, cut or diced, and peeled before you feed it to your goldfish. It will also be important not to season the fruits or vegetables in any way. [12] X Research source
Grab just enough food that you can easily pinch between your thumb and index finger. This is about the amount of food that you should feed your goldfish.
Pre-soak flakes to prevent your goldfish from swallowing air bubbles when he eats the flakes; swallowing air bubbles can lead to swim bladder problems and constipation. To pre-soak the flakes, dip them in the tank water a few times before fully placing them in the water. Feed them one to two times a week. Pre-soak pellets for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are about twice their original size. Place a small amount of tank water in another container and place the pellets in this container. After they have softened up and increased in size, add them to the tank. Feed the pellets two to three times a week. Pre-soak freeze-dried food in a small container of tank water to prevent digestive upset. [14] X Research source Completely thaw frozen foods before adding them to your goldfish’s tank. Place the food in your refrigerator for the thawing process. Peel, chop, and soften fruits and vegetables. Boiling is a good way to soften vegetables. Fruits and vegetables can be given as occasional treats. Thoroughly rinse live food if you find it yourself in the environment. Rinsing earthworms with water will help to remove the dirt and potential disease-causing organisms that may be in the dirt. To feed worms, cut them into small pieces before putting them in your goldfish’s tank; you could even try placing the small pieces on a toothpick and feeding them to your fish that way. Feed the live food once a week.
Contact your veterinarian or local pet store for advice on how to treat a goldfish who has overeaten.
Preparing the foods ahead of time and placing them in individual containers may make it easier for whomever will feed your goldfish. Automatic fish feeders are also available. Visit your local pet store to learn more about these feeders. [16] X Research source Keep in mind that goldfish can actually go a long time without eating. Although they will be hungry, goldfish can go up to three weeks without eating. [17] X Research source
