halfguard

im planning a vacation and it just came to me, how am i going to feed my platys when im gone?

Lucy

How long will you be gone?
Isn't there anyone that can come in once a day or every other day?

Craig-D

I've read multiple times that fish can go a week without food. But I'm never going to test that theory. I'm away for a week as I type this and I got a Ehiem automatic fish feeder for them. It's a battery-operated mechanical feeder that can be programed for up to 4 feedings a day daily. I've seen them as high as $50, but I got mine for $35 at Petco on sale. There are cheaper alternatives (and more expensive ones too). That's what I'd suggest. Another alternative is dissolving vacation feeders, but I would not recommend them for a variety of reasons.

aquarist48

Good morning. If there is any way possible that you could have a friend to come over and feed your fish while you're gone would be best. Premeasure the food into zip lock bags for each feeding. That way you won't have to worry about coming home to a dirty brown tank due to over feeding. Hide the remainder of the food. People not used to feeding fish will think Oh, they're still hungry and feed them more causing a nasty tank and throwing you into a mini cycle.

I've tried a cheap version of the automatic feeders which caused another mess. It got wet, the food was soggy and the thing clogged. I've seen others with the more expensive type have some success though.

I've never used the weekend or 5 day or 7 day feeders.

Too, I would suggest a water change a day or two before you leave.

Have a safe trip!

JohnnyGoldfish

I was just thinking about this. I was thinking about using those weekly pill containers that hold medications. You know the one marked Mon-Sun. This way when the house sitter comes over they will know the exact amount to put in for each day. Those should hold plenty.

aquarist48

That's a good idea as well! I'll have to remember that myself. Thanks! Have a great weekend Johnny.

harpua2002

That's what I do. It's really easy for whoever is watching your fish. I'd suggest keeping the rest of your fish food out of sight as well- I once had a friend overfeed my tanks big time when he was just trying to help and didn't know any better.