Not Contispated But Dropsy! :(

[nosoup4you]

hi i have jsut noticed this morning that the scales at his back end are starting to sit out

with medication will he survive??

Thanks Jode

I would still go ahead with the Epsoms as it helps to pull the excess fluid from the body. An antibiotic such as Metronidazole, Tetracycline, or Penicillin is necessary to kill off the bacterial infection. Dropsy is one of the most difficult fish ailments to treat, but since you caught it fairly early (before the scales REALLY started to protrude) there may be some hope.

Dropsy is most often caused by poor water conditions. When was the last time that you checked your water? If it has been awhile, I would recommend that you test your water and regardless of the outcome, I would do a partial water change before you decide to medicate. I hope this helps...good luck!

 

[Amunet]

If he's in the tank by himself, then definitely do as nosoup suggested w/ the epsom salt straight in to the tank.
And if you have anything, treat the water for bacteria infection, preferably something for internal.

Really hope he gets better

 

[nosoup4you]

If he's in the tank by himself, then definitely do as nosoup suggested w/ the epsom salt straight in to the tank.
And if you have anything, treat the water for bacteria infection, preferably something for internal.

Really hope he gets better

Yes, definitely get him quarantined (if at all possible) if he is not already in a tank by himself. Dropsy is not particularly contagious, but why stress the other fish with unnecessary treatment (treatment with antibiotics can really muck up your biological filtration) or allow the afflicted Gourami to be picked on in his weakened state. It will also be much cheaper and easier to treat in a smaller tank. Again, I hope this helps, and best of luck with the poor guy.

 

[WILDER]

Dropsy can pass onto other fish if they peck at the dead body of the fish.
That's why its better to issolate.