Can be rewarding pets, but not as cheap as some people may think (Goldfish)

Member Name: CokaCola

Product:	Goldfish
Date:	02/01/09 (71 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Maintenance isn't too time consuming, cheap in themselves to buy

Disadvantages: Tank with filter and pump slightly expensive, water changes hard work

The Goldfish is the classic first pet for people of all ages, though actually their care is not as straight forward as many people think, and to allow them to live to their potential 30+ years, one must invest a fair amount of time, effort and money.

I think it's now becomming widely accepted that bowls, which were the traditional way to house goldfish are complete inadequate because they are poor at allowing oxygen to enter the water and also do not allow a huge amount of space for the fish to swim around it. Much more suitable is a rectangular tank, with a filter and pump, with weekly partial water changes carried out. Goldfish are easy to feed in that you buy complete diets in pots, however the right amount of food to offer is an art that needs to be perfected, because overfeeding will result in a water quality that is far from optimum.

Goldfish also can grow to significant sizes and the myth that they will only grow to the size of their enclosure is a wives-tail, so it is important to be ready to expand as your fish develops. They are now available as "fancy goldfish" in many shapes sizes and colours.

The bottom line is, goldfish are low maintenance pets that can proove very rewarding to maintain successfully. Just make sure you don't budget £10 for setting them up, initial investment is needed for happy fish.

Summary: Definately do some research before investing in goldfish.