off one’s feed—
1. (of animals or fish) being without appetite:
- If the fish are off their feed, or won’t eat at a time when they normally would, then you have some evaluation steps to take.
2. (coll., of people) feeling unwell or in low spirits:
- He confided to Bee that the dear old Squire seemed “off his feed”; he did not think it was any good worrying him at present.
on the feed —(of animals or fish) eating or looking out for food (also: at feed):
- If trout are well on the feed they will take the “Jack” flies readily.