My betta fish is having seizure-like symptoms, what should I do?

Question

My baby betta that we have had for four months is having what seems like seizures. Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male | 0 lbs

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

Seizures are rare in fish but can be caused by trauma, electrocution or toxins/poor water quality. Check the water chemistry first for elevated ammonia or nitrite levels. You can use a home test kit or submit a water sample for testing. Most pet stores will do this for free or for a small fee. Aim for 0 ppm ammonia and nitrites with nitrates at 40 ppm or less. Partial water changes (no more than 30%)can be done daily to stabilize chemistry and maintain or improve quality. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Bettas do best between 78F and 80F. Check the wires to the heater and filter as well as any lighting that could potentially cause electrocution. Check bean over for signs of bacterial, fungal or parasite infection. Look for redness, sores, bruising, bleeding, inflamed gills, fuzz, white dots or a yellow sheen when lights are off and a flashlight is shone on him. Any treatment, if indicated, will depend on the type of infection. I would be hesitant to recommend a specific medication without more information. You can use plain aquarium salt (NOT table or Epsom salt) as a general tonic to reduce stress, increase gill function, treat minor infection and aid in any recovery. Dissolve up to 1 teaspoon of salt per gallon of water in a cup of tank water and gently pour it into the tank. Treat for 10-14 days then reassess Bean's condition. Partial water changes can be done afterwards to reduce salinity.

My betta fish is having seizure-like symptoms, what should I do?

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