Last Updated on March 30, 2023 by ellen
Do you know how to care for Betta fish when on vacation? If you have a Betta fish in a bowl, caring for your Betta while on vacation should be relatively simple.
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How to Care for Betta Fish When on Vacation
Just follow the guidelines below while you’re on vacation. You may want to check out my thoughts on the best betta fish food.
If you’ll only be gone for a day or two, there is probably no need to do anything special for your Betta except to be certain that your home temperature is kept comfortable.
Can I leave my betta fish for a week?
A healthy adult Betta can go several days without a meal (and in some cases a week or two although I don’t recommend it). If you’ll be gone for more than a few days, here are a few things to consider.
Betta fish food block
You can skip feeding your betta for a day or two. If you’ll be gone for more than a few days, you will want to have a fish sitter (or neighbor) stop by and feed your Betta every few days. Or, you can try a betta fish food block. This one lasts up to seven days.
You may want to consider a slow-release fish feeder like this one. Fish food blocks can cause the water to become cloudy which is not as good for your betta.
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A slow release feeder will release only the amount of food that your betta should eat in a day. Or, you might want to consider the Tetra weekender which is a plaster free gel slow release fish food.
Betta fish care
You should set the temperature of your home to be between about 73F and 86F to keep your Betta comfortable while you’re away. Be certain that your heating and cooling is set to maintain your home at a comfortable level. Don’t turn off the heat or the air conditioner.
You’ll want to replicate the normal day and light conditions your Betta experiences while you’re at home. A simple timer for your lights will work well.
Caring for beta fish in a bowl
Be certain to clean the tank right before you leave to be sure your Betta has clean water. I’d recommend a full water change to be sure it’s the best quality water possible. ‘
That should mean the water will be fine for about a week. A betta fish will not be happy in dirty water.
How long can betta fish go without water change?
If your tank has a filter, you should change the water at least once a week. Twice a week is definitely better. Your betta needs clear, fresh water to be healthy.
Caring for your beta fish for a longer absence
You cannot leave a betta fish alone for extended periods of time. If you have a friend or neighbor who is familiar with Betta, you can certainly have them stop by to take care of care while you’re gone.
Make sure that you double-check the condition of the filter and other supplies before you leave on vacation. Once you know your Betta is happy and healthy, you’ll be able to enjoy your time away.
How long do betta fish live?
Betta fish in captivity can live for three to five years. Another name for Betta fish is Siamese fighting fish because they are highly territorial. The males will fight each other if they are in the same tank. The betta fish comes from parts of Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Cambodia.
They are tropical fish. You can find them under bridges and in rice patties. They are very intelligent fish and can even be taught simple tricks.
If you have a child that is interested in owning a pet fish, check out the best fish for children to start with. I wouldn’t recommend starting with a betta fish. There are much easier types of fish for younger kids to start with.
If you’re caring for someone else’s betta fish while they are on vacation, please familiarize yourself with their care. Betta have very specific needs. You may want to read The Betta Bible to understand more about their needs. It’s a great book to have on hand.
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Ellen runs a small pet sitting business in southern Vermont. She has experience with a variety of small animals, dogs and cats. She has also cared for ducks, chickens and rabbits. Combined, she has over 20 years of experience in pet care and pet sitting.
Awwh, your post makes me want to go get a new beta fish. They’re definitely great tips for the care of a beta. I miss my blue male beta “Puppy” still, as I had him for just over three years, and despite the tiny brain, I felt he had quite the memory and personality. Even trained him to eat from my finger at feeding time; and he was a great leader in our family’s tank. <3
He sounds adorable! They really are gorgeous!