How To Kill A Fish?

[Thuggerz]

Hi all, I was thinknig about a few ways of killing an ill fish. Do you think squashing it or cutting the head off is quick why to kill a fishl?....I've heard about the clove oil and the freezer.

 

[Boxa]

I always cut the head off, but then I also feed the remaining dead body to the water dragon.

 

[scubadoo]

There are several threads on this issue - do a search on euthanasia.

IMO the quickest way is the kindest, and without having vets meds / anaesthetic, then I believe that cutting the head off is the quickest. If the fish is large, then a quick whack on the head first - as I do when fishing is also probably a good idea to stun the fish.

Freezing is not a quick and painless option - the fish suffers as the cold penetrates its body, and in actual fact, crystals can form in the blood stream which i think would probably be excrutiating.

I've heard conflicing reports about clove oil, so as said I'd always go for the chop!

I understand that some may find it difficult, but its hard to argue that its not humane.

 

[Thuggerz]

Cheers!...OFF WITH THERE HEADS!...just kidding, but i think that's the best way

 

[BigIan]

Put them in a barrel and shoot them.


its as easy as shooting fish in a...... oh thats where that phrase comes from

 

[Dragonscales]

Without wanting to instigate yet another argument on this subject, I PERSONALLY believe the freezer is not a humane option, although others may and are also entitled to their opinion. Personally I believe in the beheading method although the whole proceedure should be performed as fast as possible IMO (have the knife and surface ready, pull the fish out of water and decapitate as quickly as possible).

If the person is squeamish then I guess clove oil is another viable option if the opinions of many knowledgable and trustworthy members here is anything to go by although I have never personally used it nor can I personally vouch as to it's speed, humaneness and effectiveness. What I can vouch for is that many of the members who advocate it are also people whose' opinions I would trust if my fish were having a problem and I personally don't take anything as gospel unless it is backed up when it comes to my pets.

 

[xostrawberryox]

I know beheading is humane... but who could bring themselves to do it to their beloved fish!!! maybe its just a girl thing!

 

[cjohnston]

I quite agree, definately a thing for the husband, even though it is my hobby.

At least he has his uses! lol

I know beheading is humane... but who could bring themselves to do it to their beloved fish!!! maybe its just a girl thing!

 

[ImperfectFaerie]

I know beheading is humane... but who could bring themselves to do it to their beloved fish!!! maybe its just a girl thing!

Yeah, I hear ya there, to me it seems like the best option, but I really don't think I could do it. Our LFS is amazing, they are always willing to help out with the task as they understand that you are most likely attached to the fish. I've heard others reccomend buddying up with a fellow fishkeeper so that they can help you out without attachment, and you do the same for them, that seems like a good idea but I couldn't help with that task I don't think.

 

[timmystood]

I know beheading is humane... but who could bring themselves to do it to their beloved fish!!! maybe its just a girl thing!

No way! I'm male (at least I was last time I checked) and I could never do it either. That's why I brought some clove oil. It was only like £6 and i've never had to use it yet. Thankfully.