Going on holiday

[Onehellofaride]

We are going on holiday for 7 days shortly and need to feed the 2 goldfish while we are away. I’ve read bad reviews about the holiday feeders are there any that work well and keep the fish healthy?

An alternative option would be to buy an auto-feeder that drops in the food when away, the blocks are ok, but a good water change before and after the holiday would be recommended. Another, alternative option for goldfish - besides the auto-feeder - is to put some live plants in the tank before you leave for them to nibble on eg elodea is one type particularly suitable for goldfish. If you do buy any, then always make sure you buy them from a plant-only tank (rather than plants in among fish), and give them a good rinse before putting them in the tank.

Do a reasonable water change before you go away, feed as normal, make sure the filter is working correctly and don't worry. They can go a week without food and you're right - those blocks are completely rubbish and likely to kill your fish.

I belong to a fish expert forum (not that I am one, but they're good people to learn from!) and I know for certain that they would advise to leave the fish for a week. They will be fine without food.