Healthy koi in an established pond generally do not need supplemental feeding if you are away for one week. Koi can graze on natural food sources in the pond while you are gone.
It is generally safer to skip feeding than to have someone accidentally overfeed the fish. Overfeeding increases fish waste and can negatively affect water quality.
Before leaving
- Feed normally before your trip. Do not give extra food.
- Make sure the pump, filtration, and aeration are operating properly.
- Clean excessive debris from the skimmer or intake area.
- If someone will feed the koi, pre-measure each feeding.
- Test an automatic feeder before relying on it.
Important: Do not feed koi when the pond water is below 50°F (10°C).