The Do’s and Don’ts of Giving Treats to Koi
Koi are naturals at charming pond‑side onlookers, and offering the occasional snack can deepen that bond. Yet choosing the wrong bite can harm both fish and water quality. This guide to koi treats breaks down the safest options, how often to feed them, and which temptations to skip—so every hand‑fed moment stays fun and healthy.
Why Offer Koi Treats?
Small, nutrient‑rich treats add variety to a staple diet and reinforce trust. The act of hand‑feeding also lets you inspect each fish for sores, color changes, or sluggish behavior—early warnings you might otherwise miss.
Top Safe, Healthy Koi Treats
- Fruit & Veg - Thin slices of watermelon, oranges, shelled peas, blanched spinach, and zucchini supply vitamins and hydration. Remove any leftovers within 15 minutes to keep water clear.
- High‑Quality Shrimp or Krill - Freeze‑dried or fresh (unsalted) options deliver protein and a carotenoid boost that intensifies red and orange hues.
- Specialty Floating Pellets – Store bought koi treats often include added vitamins, probiotics, or color enhancers. Choose formulas with fish meal or wheat germ as the first ingredient and no artificial dyes.
Tip: Soak hard treats briefly so they soften and stay buoyant, reducing the risk of choking and uneaten food sinking.
Treats to Avoid
- Bread & Crackers – High in starch and gluten; they bloat koi and degrade water quality.
- Sugary or Oily Snacks – Candy, chips, and fried foods introduce harmful fats and preservatives.
- Raw Insects from the Yard – They may carry pesticides or parasites. Opt for professionally freeze‑dried insects instead.
Portion Control & Timing
Treats should make up no more than 10 % of a koi’s weekly food intake. Feed only what the fish consume in two to three minutes, and always offer snacks when filtration is running so excess particles are removed promptly. In water below 50 °F (10 °C), skip treats entirely since koi digest slowly in cold temperatures.
Ultra Balance
Premium Maintenance Formula
A year-round diet that provides complete and balanced nutrition for mature fish over 2 years of age. Also an ideal formula for feeding any age koi in water below 64°F or in crowded pond conditions.
Ultra Balance
Premium Growth Formula
Formulated for optimum growth of young koi in water 64°F and above. It is a complete and nutritionally balanced diet providing the 5 key nutrients for optimal growth, health, and performance of your koi.
