How to Take Care of a Fish Bowl

Fish have the reputation of being one of the simplest pets to care for. However, they do require maintenance to keep their living environment sanitary and ensure their health. Although there is less physical cleaning to do to a fish bowl than for an animal cage, proper precautions must be taken to keep the fish bowl water clean.

Things You'll Need

  • Fish bowl
  • Non-iodized salt
  • Bucket
  • Water conditioner
  • Gravel or stones
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Instructions

    • 1

      Using warm water and non-iodized salt, wash out your new fish bowl. Pour any gravel or rocks you plan to use into a bucket of warm water and non-iodized salt and gently wash them.

    • 2

      Depending on the gallon size of your fish bowl, add gravel or rocks. You will need to use rocks approximately one inch deep for every gallon of water.

    • 3

      Fill your fish bowl with the amount of water it is designed to hold. Make sure the water is room temperature before you add it.

    • 4

      Check the directions on the bottle of water conditioner and pour in the appropriate amount of water conditioner for your bowl size. Wait at least one hour before you put your fish back in the bowl.

    • 5

      Change the water in the bowl at least once a week, repeating the previous steps. If the water looks foggy or dirty, replace it immediately.