How Long Can Your Betta Fish Go Without Eating? 6 Tips for Keeping Them Alive

If you’re going to be gone for an extended period of time, you may be wondering how long your betta fish can go without eating. Unlike domestic cats and dogs, fish can go a bit longer without food.

On average, a betta fish can go without eating for 10 to 14 days. While we would never suggest leaving a betta fish unattended for days on end, here are some tips on how to keep them satiated while you’re gone.

Facts to Consider

This species of fish is quite picky and their stomach is around the same size as their eyes. There are a few factors to keep in mind when it comes to how long betta fish can survive without eating. 

1. Size of the Tank

The betta’s tank is just as important as their diet. The smaller the tank, the more quickly any uneaten food will start to decay. You wouldn’t want to leave for a vacation and have your fish try to survive in a dirty tank. This is much worse than simply leaving them without food. 

2. Overall Health

Another thing to consider when it comes to how long a betta fish can go without eating is their overall health. Unhealthy betta fish will not do as well as healthy ones when it comes to not eating for extended periods of time. 

Health factors to consider are their age, metabolism, and daily life. Juvenile and older bettas handle the lack of food better than middle-aged fish. 

3. Tank Filtration

Another factor that affects how long your betta fish can live while you’re gone is the tank filtration system. Fish tank filters are designed to remove particles, excess food, and other debris. 

An unfiltered tank will get dirty quicker and make it harder for your fish friend to survive. Make sure you change the filter before you leave for extended periods of time to help ensure the overall health of your fish. 

How to Feed Betta Fish When You’re Away

Whether you have a vacation coming up or you simply have to leave due to a family emergency, there are ways to keep your fish fed while you’re gone. Take a look at these methods and try what works best for you.

1. Automatic Feeder

One of the easiest ways to make sure your betta fish is well fed while you’re away is to use an automatic fish feeder. These are systems that you attach to your tank that holds food and dispenses it on a schedule. 

Automatic feeders are relatively inexpensive and start around $20. They are easy to set up and all you’ll need to do is fill it with your betta fish’s favorite food. We highly suggest testing this before you have to leave to ensure that it works properly and dispenses the correct amount. 

2. Get a Pet Sitter

If you already have somebody coming to watch your cat or dog while you’re away, have them care for your fish as well. There are also people that specifically fish sit and have special expertise in these beautiful finned creatures. 

You can also ask a family member or friend to take care of your fish while you’re away. Homeowners and renters may not want a stranger in your home left unattended and having someone you can trust is essential. 

3. Use a Block Feeder

If you can’t find someone to watch your fish for you and an automatic feeder is out of the question, consider using a block feeder. This consists of a large block of fish food that you place in your tank before you leave. 

The block breaks down over time and gradually feeds your betta fish. While these aren’t the best option because there is no control over how much food it releases, they still work when you’re in a pinch. 

If you’re going to be gone for more than a week, we would suggest going with a different method. When left in a tank for a long period of time, block feeders can decompose and rot leading to dangerous levels of ammonia in the tank water. 

Prepare Your Fish Tank Before You Leave

Taking a few minutes to inspect your fish tank before you travel can help save you a headache. You’ll want to wash the tank and put in a new filter before you leave. Clean up any gravel to dispose of food scraps. 

If you’re opting for an automatic feeder, make sure that it’s working properly and dispensing food. Check the temperature of the water and make sure it’s between 75 and 80 °. Be sure to feed your fish right before heading out the door. 

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