Taking care of a pet may be challenging if you don’t identify and learn more about its needs. After deciding to keep one in your life, they become an extra family member.
Whether you choose a cat, dog, turtle, or fish to be your home friend, make sure you conduct some research before.
You must consider the house layout and functionality because pets often need enough space and places where they can stay, play and eat during the day.
For example, if you decide to keep a cat, ensure you can provide them various benefits, such as a litter box, playing room, or scratching posts.
A dog will require different living conditions, including every day outside walks and positive-based classes to attend. Yes, pets usually need a lot of space and attention but don’t panic.
You can still enjoy having a pet, even if you don’t have enough space, or the working schedule doesn’t allow you to be home for long periods.
So, in this situation, you may ask what pet will fit your lifestyle. One of the best and most affordable options is a fish. They are great if you are a starter, being easier to manage the care process.
They don’t require too much space, and you don’t have to stress about daily walks or damaged furniture. Plus, you can choose from a wide range of species.
Still, you need to follow some rules to create a proper living environment for them. This way, you make sure they are comfortable and healthy.
When choosing a fish, pay attention to their species’ needs. Here are some suggestions:
Betta (Siamese fighting fish).
They are cold-water fishes and easy to maintain but don’t forget to separate them from other types of fish.
Goldfish.
They are cold-water fish, too, requiring a larger space for swimming than other species because they can grow quite long. For creating a comfortable environment, try not to overcrowd their tank.
Angelfish.
They are beautiful sea creatures, appearing in various color patterns. Add plenty of plants in the tank for an enjoyable environment because they often like to play hide and seek.
Platies. They are tropical fishes, being available in lots of colors and shades. Besides, you can choose this species if your space doesn’t allow big tanks.
A fish can be a great companion, and if you decide to choose one as a pet, here are some tips to help you offer them appropriate care:
Provide Enough Space
A fish may not need as much space as a cat or dog, but you have to ensure the house has a proper space for installing the aquarium.
When choosing a fish tank, remember that the bigger, the better applies perfectly in this situation.
A large aquarium will help your fish adapt to their new living environment quickly and faster, providing enough space for swimming, exploring, and growing.
Besides, the bigger the tank is, the easier it is to maintain it at the right temperature and clean.
However, consider that a larger tank will cost more, so ensure you have the necessary finances for choosing the best one for your pet.
You can research what aquarium will suit best your fish species and opt for the largest one you can afford.
Pay Attention to the Water
After choosing the perfect tank for your fish, it’s time to create a living environment. You can start with the water.
Maintaining it at the right temperature and pH level is important because if these two elements are unbalanced, your fish’s life may be in danger.
Consider that each fish species requires different chemical water composition, so ensure you research the ideal pH level for each.
The best way to establish and maintain the recommended pH is by testing its level regularly. If it has inappropriate values, you can raise the pH level naturally by adding moss, baking soda, or driftwood.
Besides water pH, make sure you keep the proper water temperature. Fish pets need a constant temperature to survive, so it’s vital to constantly monitor water temperature, which you must adjust according to the fish type and species.
For example, you can set a higher water temperature for saltwater fish than for freshwater ones. Also, you have to change the water regularly to keep the tank clean.
You may wonder about the best methods to keep the tank at the right temperature. You can use an aqua heater or a temporary boiler to control and set the temperature you need.
To save money, choose boiler rentals if you need one just to maintain your fish’s water temperature.
Make Sure You Create a Comfortable Environment
Having a comfortable living environment is essential for your fish. As said before, maintaining the proper water temperature is vital for the little pet.
So, if you are not sure how to choose the optimum value for the temperature, don’t hesitate to ask for help. There are many New York boilers providers that can offer you the needed information.
But there are more environmental actions to consider when taking care of a fish, such as:
Re-Create a Natural Environment.
It will undoubtedly make your fish happier. For a saltwater fish, you can add to the aquarium sand, live rocks, and sea salt mix, while polished gravel and foreground plants suit a freshwater fish’s needs better.
Remove Excess Algae.Â
A clean environment is healthy, so make sure you regularly clean the tank sides and remove excess algae. It is beneficial for maintaining a balanced water pH and avoiding oxygen depletion.
Avoid Harmful Decorations.
Ceramics, wood, shells or corals, glass, and plastics are not appropriate materials for your fish environment.
Choose Qualitative Food
Feeding your fish the right food is essential for their health. Make sure you research your fish species’ dietary requirements and don’t overfeed them.
Some fish need live food, while others enjoy algae or generic fish flakes. For better management of your fish diet, ask your veterinarian because they can offer you information and suggestions about how to keep your fish healthy.
So, now that you have learned some tips on how to take care of a fish, don’t hesitate to purchase one because they are the perfect option for someone with a busy schedule.
Your little friend will smile at you from the aquarium every time you return home.
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Some other articles you might find of interest:
Learn more about these sought-after fish breed this 2021:
Betta Fish – What Are They And Whether Should You Get One
Are you looking for freshwater aquarium ideas?
25 Best Freshwater Aquarium Fish For Beginners in 2021
Match your aquarium and freshwater fishes here:
Colorful Freshwater Fishes for Your Aquarium – Appearance, Behavior, and Compatibility
