Contrary to some beliefs, goldfish are not vegetarians. They require a food that has high quality protein from animal, fish and other sources. In most cases, pellet food works best, especially when combined with frozen foods and vegetables. Although flakes work well as a suppliment to the diet they should should not be used as the only food source. Feeding your fish is one of the most enjoyable times you will spend with your fancy finned friends. It provides the oportunity to bond with, tame and train your fish.
If you keep your fish in a pond always place the food in the same place each time you feed. This way the fish learn that when you are in this spot, it means they will be fed. Soon you can train them to eat out of your hand.
Our fish require different types of goldfish food for different seasons. During late spring and summer you should use a food that contains higher amounts of protein. Protein is used by the body for bone and tissue growth. Goldfish, as in humans, do not store protein in the body. It is used for growth, however a small amount may be converted to carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are burned as engery for swimming. It IS stored in the body as fat so it is essential that a lower protein goldfish food be used during cooler temperatures. Your fish won't have the benefit feeding on a regular basis during the winter. Therefore a wheatgerm based food should be used so the goldfish can store carbs and fat for the winter. Your goldfish will eat both animal and vegetable food matter which makes them omnivorous. They do not have stomachs so they can't eat a large amount of food at one time. This is the reason your goldfish spend a great deal of time foraging around for food. Goldfish will actually eat just about any food that is small enough for them to swallow whole.
The hand-feeding process can be pleasurable for both you and your goldfish. Instead of throwing the food into the pond, take the time to place the food into the water at the same area daily. In so doing, the goldfish will become accustomed to the routine and will, over time, become friendly and trusting enough to be hand-fed. Taming and training your goldfish is a gradual process, but it can be very rewarding. Spending this time with your goldfish will also allow you to observe any problems early on.
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Water Temp. (°F.)
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Feeding Frequency
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Food Type
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Less than 50ºF.
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Do not feed.
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Temperatures at 50° F. of more than one month may require supplemental feedings of low protein and high carbohydrates.
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50-55ºF
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2-3 times a week if they are hungry.
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High carbohydrate, low protein, laxative type foods. Wheat germ, Cheerios®, squash, lettuce and brown bread.
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55-59ºF
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4-5 times per week if they are hungry.
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Add low protein (25%) pellets along with vegetables. Increase quantities gradually as temperature increases.
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59ºF
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Once per day six days per week.
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Low protein (25%) pellets along with high carbohydrate vegetables and fruit.
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60-65ºF
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Once per day every day.
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Gradually increase protein in pellets (35%) and quantity of pellets. Vary diet with vegetables and fruit.
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65-72ºF
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Once or twice per day.
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Bulk of diet should be 35% protein pellets. Add fruits, vegetables, and plankton for variety.
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72-80ºF
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3 to 4 times per day.
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High protein pellets (35% to 40%) with color enhancers. Add plankton, vegetables, fruits, and shrimp.
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