MOT Time

MOT Time

It’s fair to say that each year can be challenging for everyone, and our Koi. However if we monitor water parameters and keep a close eye on our Koi, we can see any potential problems before they become big issues.

So as the year turns, it’s time to take stock and give our Koi an MOT!

Checking Koi individually for those annoying knocks and bashes, split dorsal, pecs and lost scales is always a good idea, but its also one that’s easily forgotten or overlooked in our busy lives.

Why not allocate a morning to just sit and methodically watch and observe all your Koi individually, checking each and every one of them for any physical or behavioural abnormality. Make a list and check them all off one by one, and note any issues.

We don’t advocate netting Koi without a reason, simply because it’s potentially risky, Koi are easily damaged and lets be honest most Koi keepers don’t have that much experience, so only net Koi that require intervention and net them carefully, gently, but be positive! Apply that topical dressing to that split dorsal and if you have a microscope take a few scrapes and check for parasites, but most important just sit and look at your Koi as the individuals they all are. It’s amazing what you can see when you’re actually looking.

It’s a long time till next spring and even minor physical injuries don’t get better in cold water, and sending Koi into winter with parasites is a really bad idea that will come back to haunt you later. So now is the time to take action and sort out any and all Koi health issues you might have.