My betta is wiggling, not eating, and seems sick. What's wrong?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male | 25 days old | 1.8 lbs
My betta fish is wiggling when he moves and I am really concerned about it. What should I do? He also never eat since the 2nd day I got him.When I put the food in the tank, he would swim away and ignore it. What should I do? I put him in an area of 81 degrees.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on July 23rd, 2017
The ideal water temperature for bettas is between 78 F and 80 F. Check water quality and perform a partial water change if necessary. Used aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent shock or stress. If he won't eat pellets, try soaking them in a bit of garlic juice. This can serve as an appetite stimulant as well as an immune system booster. You can also offer freeze dried (or live) bloodworms, brine shrimp or tubifex worms. The "wiggling" when he swims may be normal for him but check his fins for signs of fin rot which can make swimming more difficult.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on January 26th, 2020
Check water chemistry and temperature. Both can affect activity and appetite. Maintain pristine water quality via filtration and regular partial water changes. Use only conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Bettas do best between 78 F and 80 F. Next, check the food itself. Betta are little carnivores. Make sure the flakes are an appropriate diet. He may eat only in the morning because he is hungry enough to eat.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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