My Betta

[godzangel]

Hi to anyone who can help. For over a week now my betta has been swimming on his side. He was having some type of convulsing it seemed he would bend as if trying to touch his tail fin. This has not been as frequent since changing his water again Saturday 2/18. He doesn't seem to eat much, doesn't have any other symptons like lumps, change in scales or color. Please help me (us). You can also reach me on email godzangel96@comcast.net.

 

[tttnjfttt]

It sounds like a swim blader problem. I would begin by feeding him either peas or daphnia as that can help. If that doesn't work, i would try an broad spectrum antibiotic, such as kanacyn (aka kanamyicin). Make sure you avoid fatty foods such as blood works as that can make things worse.

the following info is taken from http/www.fish-disease.net/diseases/swim_...er_disorder.php
Swim Bladder Disorder
The Swim bladder is a gas-filled sac located inside the fish’s body cavity just above most of the other internal organs. This sac is what gives the fish buoyancy and controls equilibrium. The amount of gas in this sac changes as the fish rises and sinks in the water, enabling it to swim, hover and move in the water. Without the use of the Swim-bladder organ a fish is unable to control it's own movements.


Symptoms:

Fish with a swim bladder disorder appear to have an abnormal swimming pattern, usually with their tail end up. They also appear to have difficulty maintaining equilibrium. They may even float upside down or appear to be stuck at the surface of the water, being unable to swim down, or they may lie on the bottom, unable to rise. Fish with a swim bladder disorder will continue to try and feed, showing a normal appetite.


Cause:

The most common cause of swim bladder disorders is improper diet. An improper diet can lead to intestinal gas or intestinal blockages. Intestinal blockages can irritate the bowel, giving bacteria or other parasites an entry point where they can then cause damage to the swim bladder. Swim bladder disorders are most common in the larger, deep-bodied varieties of Goldfish. Fish also fed a lot of dried foods, especially pellets, are most susceptible. This condition is frequently observed in the later stages of Malawi Bloat, which is primarily due to an improper diet as well and intestinal irritation.


Treatment:

Because this disorder is due principally to an improper diet, a change in their feeding needs to be made. Dried foods with lots of protein should be kept to a minimum. Pellets and other dense foods should be soaked prior to feeding or completely eliminated from their diet. Foods with lots of fiber should be introduced, such as zucchini, squash, spinach, romaine lettuce, peas, and grated carrots. If you suspect that the fish is victim to a bacterial infection, treat the fish with a medicated food.

 

[happyannie]

I emailed you about your betta's problem. Keep us posted ok? Hope all goes well for him and you too!