Feeding your catfish correctly, from fingerlings to market size, is one of the most critical aspects of successful catfish farming. A proper catfish feeding schedule not only ensures fast and healthy growth but also helps you manage costs, reduce mortality, and achieve a better feed conversion ratio (FCR).
In this guide, we’ll break down the optimal feeding frequency, feed type, and quantities you need at each stage of your catfish production cycle.
Stage 1: Catfish Fingerlings (4g – 10g)
At this delicate stage, catfish fingerlings require high-protein, easily digestible feed to support rapid growth and immunity.
Feeding Tips:
- Feed Type: Floating or sinking feed (42–45% crude protein)
- Feeding Frequency: 3–4 times daily
- Feeding Time: Early morning, mid-day, evening (optional night feeding if stocked densely)
- Quantity: Feed to satiation — stop when they stop rushing to the feed
Stage 2: Juvenile Catfish (10g – 100g)
Juveniles are active and grow quickly when fed properly. This stage determines how fast your stock will reach grow-out.
Feeding Tips:
- Feed Type: Extruded floating feed (38–40% protein)
- Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily
- Feeding Time: 7–8 AM, 12–1 PM, and optionally 5–6 PM
- Quantity: 3–5% of body weight, adjusted every 2 weeks after sampling
Stage 3: Grow-Out Catfish (100g – Market Size / 800g–1kg)
This is the longest stage. Efficient feeding here maximizes size and profit.
Feeding Tips:
- Feed Type: Floating feed, later transitioning to sinking feed (28–35% protein)
- Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily
- Feeding Time: Preferably early morning and evening (cooler temperatures improve appetite)
- Quantity: 2–3% of body weight, based on bi-weekly sampling
Catfish Feeding Table (Sample Guide)
| Weight Range | Feed Type | Protein % | Feeding Frequency | Feed % of Body Weight |
| 4g – 10g | Floating | 45% | 3–4x/day | To satiation |
| 10g – 100g | Floating | 40% | 2–3x/day | 3–5% |
| 100g – 500g | Floating/Sinking | 35% | 2x/day | 2–3% |
| 500g – 1kg+ | Floating/Sinking | 28–32% | 1–2x/day | 1.5–2.5% |
Tip: Always adjust feeding based on water temperature, oxygen level, and behavior of the fish.
Bonus Tips to Improve Feeding Efficiency
- Sample fish every 2 weeks to adjust the feeding quantity based on actual body weight.
- Avoid overfeeding — leftover feed can pollute the water and increase ammonia.
- Feed during cooler hours (early morning or late evening) to increase feed intake.
- Introduce probiotics or vitamin premix occasionally to boost immunity.
- Ensure proper pond aeration and water quality for optimal feed digestion.
Common Questions About Catfish Feeding
How often should I feed catfish daily?
Depending on the stage: 3–4 times (fingerlings), 2–3 times (juveniles), 1–2 times (grow-out).
What is the best time to feed catfish?
Early morning and late evening are ideal — fish eat better when temperatures are low.
Can I feed catfish at night?
Yes, especially for fingerlings and juveniles in densely stocked ponds to reduce competition.
What’s the best feed for fast growth?
Use high-protein extruded floating feed (45% for fingerlings, 35%+ for juveniles), and gradually reduce protein as they grow.
A well-structured catfish feeding schedule helps you grow healthier, bigger fish in less time — while minimizing costs. By understanding the nutritional needs of your catfish at each stage and adjusting your feeding practice accordingly, you’ll see faster growth and better profits.