Koi Treats & Snacks

Koi Treats for Hand-Feeding and Supplemental Nutrition

Koi treats add variety to the diet and turn feeding time into an interactive bonding experience. Play It Koi carries a selection of koi treats including silkworm pupae, mealworms, shrimp, and specialty snack sticks from trusted brands. These high-value treats are rich in natural proteins and fats that supplement the daily staple diet while encouraging koi to eat from your hand — one of the most rewarding aspects of koi keeping.

Types of Koi Treats

Silkworm pupae are a traditional Japanese koi treat packed with natural oils and carotenoids that promote skin luster and subtle color enhancement. Freeze-dried shrimp and krill provide a protein boost that koi go absolutely crazy for. Mealworms are an economical treat option rich in fat and protein. Hikari and other manufacturers also produce floating treat sticks specifically formulated as occasional snacks. Each type offers different nutritional benefits, so rotating through several varieties keeps feeding interesting for both keeper and fish.

How to Hand-Feed Koi

Hand-feeding builds trust between keeper and fish, making it easier to inspect individual koi for health issues up close. Start by placing treats on the water surface near your hand. Over several sessions, koi will begin approaching and eventually eating directly from your fingers. Patience is key — some koi warm up in days, while others take weeks. Once trained, hand-feeding becomes a daily highlight. Use treats sparingly, limiting them to once or twice per day as a supplement to staple koi food or color-enhancing food.

Treats and Overall Nutrition

Treats should make up no more than 10 to 15 percent of a koi's total diet. The bulk of nutrition should come from a balanced pellet formula from the koi food collection. For hands-off supplemental feeding, an automatic fish feeder can dispense treats at set intervals. Healthy, well-fed koi fish are more active, more colorful, and more eager to interact at feeding time.

Play It Koi offers free shipping on orders over $99. Contact our team for treat recommendations and feeding tips.

Related Categories

Koi Food · Koi Fish · Automatic Fish Feeders · Staple Koi Food · Color-Enhancing Koi Food