Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish
I have a pop-eyed goldfish and he constantly floats to the top. I think he may have swim bladder disease. He lives with another goldfish who is also a pop-eyed, but the other fish does not have this problem. I have had this type of fish in the past and it progressed so much to where he was always upside down. I just want to know how can I fix this and prevent it and does this have something to do with the breed
1 Answer
Published on November 9th, 2017
Swim bladder disease can be caused by poor water quality, infection or constipation. Check the water quality and chemistry. Rinse the filter media with tank water (not tap water) to preserve beneficial bacteria. Perform water changes using aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Goldfish do best between 65 F and 72 F. Fast the affected fish for 3 days (you may need to separate him/her). Resume feeding bits of cooked, shelled green peas until defecation and appearance is normal. A bit of aquarium salt (NOT table salt) can be used as a general tonic to reduce stress, improve gill function and aid in recovery. It can also treat minor infection. Dissolve 1 teaspoon per gallon of water and treat for 7-10 days.
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