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Sick axolotl with liver failure: Can salt baths ease fluid buildup?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

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

My 8 year old axolotl is still unwell after a visit to the exotic pet vet and a course of Metronidazole ? ascites secondary to liver failure. Is there anything else I can do for him? Are salt baths still useful to ease his fluid build-up? What concentration would you recommend and for how long? If his condition remains unchanged, when should I consider vet-assisted euthanasia? I just really don't want him to starve to death. (50 L tank; ammonia/nitirite 0; vet stated husbandry not an issue).

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on November 4th, 2017

A combination of salt baths and fridging may ease symptoms. If liver failure has been diagnosed, this is usually a terminal illness. Recommended salt concentration is 2-3 teaspoons of aquarium salt per liter of dechlorinated water. Baths should be 10-15 minutes duration. Fridging can be done in conjunction to reduce stress and aid in recovery. There is a guide to fridging at the link below. http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/85263-axolotl-fridging-guide.html

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