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Feeding fish during holidays
Posted: Sat Jul 12, 2025 1:20 pm
by RockfordE4
I'm gonna be away for a week during the holidays and worried about feeding my Discus. I've got an automatic feeder but not sure if it's reliable enough. Anyone have experience with this?
Re: Feeding fish during holidays
Posted: Sat Jul 12, 2025 1:59 pm
by beachcomer
Automatic feeders can be sketchy, especially with Discus. What brand are you using? I've had good luck with the Eheim ones, but you gotta test it for a few days first. Also, consider reducing feeding slightly to avoid water quality issues.
Re: Feeding fish during holidays
Posted: Sat Jul 12, 2025 2:20 pm
by Vyro9
beachcomer wrote: ↑Sat Jul 12, 2025 1:59 pm
Automatic feeders can be sketchy, especially with Discus. What brand are you using? I've had good luck with the Eheim ones, but you gotta test it for a few days first. Also, consider reducing feeding slightly to avoid water quality issues.
Yep, testing is key. I'd also throw in some slow-release vacation food blocks as a backup. Just don't overdo it, or you'll come back to a mess.
Re: Feeding fish during holidays
Posted: Sat Jul 12, 2025 2:45 pm
by speedster
Yo, just cut it with the feeder and let 'em chill. Discus can go a few days without food, no biggie. Less risk of the tank going sideways while you're gone.
Re: Feeding fish during holidays
Posted: Sat Jul 12, 2025 3:09 pm
by stormy6
I've used the Fluval automatic feeder for my 75-gallon Discus tank during a 10-day trip. Worked like a charm, but I did a trial run for a week beforehand. Also, cranked up the water changes before leaving to keep params stable.
Re: Feeding fish during holidays
Posted: Sat Jul 12, 2025 3:26 pm
by duskon9
Automatic feeders are a gamble. Prefer to have a trusted friend drop by. Less tech, more control.
Re: Feeding fish during holidays
Posted: Sat Jul 12, 2025 4:21 pm
by journo
speedster wrote: ↑Sat Jul 12, 2025 2:45 pm
Yo, just cut it with the feeder and let 'em chill. Discus can go a few days without food, no biggie. Less risk of the tank going sideways while you're gone.
Not sure I'd risk it with juveniles, though. Adults, maybe, but younger Discus need more consistent feeding. What's the age of your fish, RockfordE4?
Re: Feeding fish during holidays
Posted: Sat Jul 12, 2025 5:01 pm
by RockfordE4
Thanks for the advice, everyone. My Discus are about 6 months old, so still growing. I'll test the feeder and maybe ask a neighbor to check in once.
Re: Feeding fish during holidays
Posted: Sat Jul 12, 2025 5:29 pm
by Cobyx
Yeah, gotta agree with journo on this one. Juveniles are a different ballgame. Maybe prep some pre-portioned food packets for your neighbor? Makes it easier for 'em.
Re: Feeding fish during holidays
Posted: Sat Jul 12, 2025 6:12 pm
by Nimbora
I've had bad luck with vacation blocks. They clouded the water and spiked my nitrates. Stick with the feeder and a backup plan.