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My fish has damaged fins. Can they regrow? How do I help him?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male | unneutered

Hello, Our fish got stuck under an aquarium cave and we found him this morning with damaged fins. He still seems to be breathing but cannot swim with the fin damage. Is this a situation where his fins with regrow and survive? If yes, how can we assist him in survival/regrowth?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on May 17th, 2017

This presentation could be compatible with fin rot, which is a bacterial or fungal infection. It is unlikely that the primary cause is traumatic, unless Tank is itchy (that could be compatible with a bacterial infection anyway) and he is scratching himself constantly. The approach must be logic anyway starting from water quality check and treating with some antibiotics. Begin by submitting a water sample for quality testing. Most pet stores will do this for free or a nominal fee. If water quality is good and there are no major imbalances, water should be treated with antibiotics. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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