Fish care during winters is an absolute necessity to protect your fishes from the icy cold water and the weather itself.

Winter arrives at your doorstep with a chilling breeze and icy water, and that needs preparation to protect your pets from this weather. Without proper knowledge of caring for fishes during winter, your pet fish can get sick and even die due to the temperature fluctuations.

So, we brought you some tips and answered some questions on how to care for fishes in winter to save your beloved fish from the atrocity of the cold weather.

Why is my fish dying during winter?

Sudden temperature fluctuations and low oxygen levels result in the death of a fish, mainly during winters. Sometimes, overfeeding your fish during winters can also result in their sudden demise.

Should I feed my fish during winters?

If you have fish in a pond, avoid feeding them during winters on a daily basis. They can survive in the pond for the entire season with the help of algae and plants in your pond. But, to avoid any mishappening, you can feed them every third day in small quantities.

If you have an aquarium at your place, kindly do not stop feeding you fish as there is no natural source for the growth of fauna there.

Should I install a heater for my fish in the aquarium?

Yes, you can install a heater in your aquarium to combat the cold weather and temperature fluctuations. A heater helps in regulating the temperature inside the aquarium, keeping your fishes warm even in cold weather.

Follow these tips for an effective way to care for fishes during winters

• If you have a pet fish in a pond, avoid overfeeding them

One of the common mistakes pond fish owners commit is overfeeding their fish during winters. Some fish hibernate while others become dormant during winters, meaning they don't indulge in any activity that could burn down the energy from the food.

Some owners avoid feeding their pond fish for the entire season. But, if you feel skeptical about it, you can give them food twice or thrice a week in fewer quantities.

• To keep the temperature in check, install heaters in ponds or aquariums

It is essential to keep the temperature in check in order to care for your fishes during winters. Not only a heater will keep the water warm, but it will also keep the temperature fluctuations in check.

Pond water can freeze during winters that can affect your pet fish. Hence, to avoid that, consider installing pond heaters.

If you have an aquarium, you still need to install an aquarium heater. The water in an aquarium might not freeze, but it can get cold enough for your fish to suffer in the cold weather. Also, remember to install a heater that is suitable for the size of a pond or aquarium.

• Avoid changing water frequently during the winter season

If you are wondering how to keep your fish alive during winters, then strictly avoid changing the water as much as possible.

Fishes start stressing out when you change their water, and they also require time to adjust to the new water.

If you change the water in winter, it will take a long time to heat up, and you can't keep your fish out of their aquarium or pond for long hours during winters as it might affect their health.

• Make sure there is enough and regular flow of oxygen for your fishes

Depletion of oxygen is one of the leading causes of the demise of fishes during the winter season.

If you have an aquarium, make sure you install an air pump to regulate the oxygen level in the aquarium as there is no plant or flora to support oxygen levels. You don't need to switch on the air pump all day long. A few hours of regular air pumping will do the job.

Pond fish in winter do not require constant air pumping during winters as there are plants present that can support the fishes with a regular amount of oxygen. However, when the temperature drops lower than five degrees, you should pump your pond with air for a few hours every day.

Unlike other pets, you can't cuddle with your pet fish in a blanket. Since water temperatures drop, it is essential you take proper care of your fishes during winters.  If you follow these steps and take the necessary precautions, then your fish will remain healthy as always. And, don't worry, it's normal for fishes to become dormant during winters. However, if you notice some drastic changes in your pet fish's behavior, then contact an expert and get the necessary medications. We hope that you and your pet fish both enjoy this winter season!