Pets

Why goldfish make great first pets

Are you or your kids desperate for a pet? Well, if you're not quite ready to commit to a furry friend just yet, a goldfish could be the perfect solution. They're easy to care for, don't take up too much space, and can be a fun addition to your home.

March 9, 2023

Why goldfish? They are perfectly happy swimming around in their tank all day, and as long as you keep their water clean and give them enough food, they'll be content.

  • They're easy to take care of and don't require walking or house training (obviously!).  
  • You always know where they are!
  • They're social and intelligent animals that can interact with each other and their humans.  

But before you go out and buy a tank and some fish, there are a few things you need to know to make sure your goldfish are happy and healthy.  

You will need:

  • A tank, filter, and air pump
  • About 20 litres of water per fish
  • Decorations such as plants and rocks to create a natural habitat  

Always buy healthy fish:

  • Always buy your goldfish from a responsible seller. Healthy fish display clear and bright body colouration, and they hold their fins erect.  
  • Healthy fish are also alert and glide around the tank without too much effort.

Fish which are not so healthy will:

  • Sink or bob to the surface.
  • Have lumps, bumps, wounds, clamped fins.
  • Stay in a corner of the aquarium for long periods.

It’s recommended to keep at least 2 goldfish, so they have a friend to hang out with. If choosing a different fish check that it has similar needs or things could get complicated!  

  • Make sure they have similar swimming abilities to make sure all fish have enough food and swimming space.  
  • You will also need to consider how large your goldfish will be fully grown to make sure there’s enough space for everyone to enjoy.  

Looking after your goldfish

  • Use a high-quality pellet or flake food specifically formulated for goldfish.
  • Feed your fish small amounts several times a day and avoid overfeeding.
  • Change about 10% of the water in the tank every week to keep it clean.
  • Watch for signs of illness or distress, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or white spots on fins or body.

And don't forget to give your goldfish some love and attention! While they can’t be played with like a dog or a cat, they do like to have some interaction with their human friends (and they often recognise the person who regularly feeds them!). You can talk to them, watch them swimming around and enjoy the simple pleasure of having a little fishy friend in your life.

Source: rspca.org.au
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