My goldfish has Popeye. What medicine should I use to treat it?

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  Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on October 27th, 2017

  Popeye and a cloudy eye may indicate injury, infection or poor water quality. Check the tank for plants and furniture that may cause trauma. Tank mates can also cause injury. Test the water with a home test kit or submit a sample for testing. Most pet or fish stores will do this for free or for a nominal fee. Ammonia and nitrites should be 0.25ppm or less, nitrates can be 40ppm or less. Daily 30% water changes may resolve the condition by improving water quality. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. If Boris has tank mates, consider separating him out to a hospital tank until he recovers. If water changes do not resolve the condition, consider a broad spectrum antibiotic. You can find one in the aquarium section of the local pet or fish store. Read package directions carefully and remove the carbon filter insert if indicated. Plain aquarium salt (NOT table salt) can also be used as a general tonic, to reduce stress and aid in recovery. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt into a cup of tank water and gently pour it into the tank. If performing daily water changes, use only enough salt in the water that is being replaced, not the entire volume of the tank.

  

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