The main reasons for not feeding Koi during the treatment of their diseases include the following points:
Reducing the burden on the liver, gallbladder, and intestines: When Koi are sick, the digestive functions of their liver, gallbladder, and intestines are often disrupted. Reducing the amount of feed or stopping feeding can relieve the digestive burden on the liver, gallbladder, and intestines of the fish, and avoid the aggravation of the disease caused by indigestion.
Stimulating immunity: Moderate hunger can stimulate the functions of the internal organs and the endocrine system of Koi. Studies have shown that moderate hunger can cause changes in the levels of some hormones in the fish's body, such as growth hormone and cortisol. These changes help to enhance the fish's immunity and stress resistance, enabling it to better cope with diseases.
Stabilizing the water quality: When Koi are sick, continuing to feed them will lead to the generation of a large amount of leftover feed and feces. The decomposition of these leftover feed and feces in the water will consume a large amount of oxygen, resulting in the deterioration of the water quality, which will further affect the health of the fish. Reducing the amount of feed or stopping feeding can reduce the generation of leftover feed and feces, thus stabilizing the water quality.
Avoiding indigestion: When Koi are sick, their digestive ability weakens. Continuing to feed them will cause the food to be unable to be fully digested and absorbed. Instead, the food will remain in the intestines, causing indigestion and other health problems.